Days out by train in East Anglia

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greateranglia.co.uk/daysout

Days out by train in East Anglia

Fun days out with family and friendsGreat savings with Greater Anglia

HERITAGE

SEA AND SUN

FAMILY FUN

NORFOLK 2–7SUFFOLK 8–13CAMBRIDGE 14–15ESSEX 16–21TOURISM TRAILS 22–27

CONTENTS

EXPLORE

SHOPPING

Hop on a train for fun days out in East Anglia and save as you go

TERRIFIC 2 for 1 OFFERS

SO MANY PLACES TO SEE

SPECIAL MOMENTS

Life is made up of special moments – family days out, romantic short breaks and exploring new places. Whether it’s sand between your toes, exploring castle dungeons or enjoying a spot of shopping – Greater Anglia can take you there. Travelling by train adds a sense of special occasion, especially for kids, and means you can truly enjoy time together the moment your journey begins.

Our trains take you to some of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations in the region – from the tips of the north Norfolk coast to the heart of Suffolk, cosmopolitan Cambridge to the adventures of Lee Valley Regional Park in Essex. Travelling by train is often much cheaper than you think. For example, with GroupSave when two adults buy an Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak ticket, up to two more people travel free.

Travel with us by train this year and enjoy 2 for 1 entry to everything from award-winning museums and zoos to Sea Life Centres and attractions. Plus with 2 for 1 on meals, cycle hire, tours and accommodation, planning a day out or short break suddenly becomes a very affordable prospect. Read on for destination and offer highlights, and you might find your next special moment is only days away.


DAYS OUT BY TRAIN IN EAST ANGLIA 1

A great place for shopping

With its large pedestrianised areas and bustling lanes, its quirky independent

shops, colourful six-day open-air market and spacious modern shopping malls, Norwich is truly a unique destination for shoppers. Norwich has all the UK’s leading department stores including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser, Bhs and Debenhams. Castle Mall and Chapelfield shopping centres have over 150 stores and restaurants between them whilst dozens of independent shops, many within the historic Norwich Lanes, Norwich Cathedral Quarter and Timberhill, bring an extra dimension to any trip. Jarrold, the city’s family-run independent department store since 1823, has won the prestigious title of UK Independent Department Store of the Year twice and has also been voted the nation’s favourite department store by The Times. The art nouveau Royal Arcade is home to a number of independent shops including the Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum.

Norfolk’s charming capital is an ancient city boasting some of the finest medieval heritage in the country. Today, against this historic backdrop, thrives a friendly cosmopolitan city offering a diverse mix of cultural and arts attractions, superb and original shopping, family fun, great nightlife and a mouth-watering choice of restaurants, cafés and pubs.

NORWICH

2 DAYS OUT BY TRAIN IN EAST ANGLIA

For the perfect city break

A heritage treasure trove

Norwich has over 1,500 historic buildings within the city walls and its compact scale means you can easily explore many of them on foot during your stay. As well as two magnificent cathedrals and an imposing Norman castle, you’ll find over 30 beautiful medieval churches, more than any other city north of the Alps, nestled within pretty medieval streets. Don’t miss The Norwich 12, the UK’s finest collection of individually outstanding heritage buildings spanning the Norman, medieval, Georgian, Victorian and modern eras. For more information visit norwich12.co.uk.

Cathedral followed by tea

Lots of Greater Anglia days out offers like these online:

greateranglia.co.uk/daysoutFor details on all our 2 for 1 offers go to:

A city of culture

Awarded UNESCO City of Literature status in 2012, Norwich also offers a vibrant cultural scene. The iconic

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery stands proud over the city. From 14 September, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts celebrates the University of East Anglia’s 50th Anniversary with a major exhibition ‘Masterpieces: Art and East Anglia’ housed in newly refurbished galleries by Norman Foster. Don’t miss our 2 for 1 voucher online. Europe’s largest permanent digital screen gallery, Fusion, can be found in the city’s landmark Forum building, whilst a remarkable choice of theatre, music and festivals is on offer too.

Staying the night

Add to all of the above a great choice of accommodation for all budgets and you have the perfect city break destination. See visitnorwich.co.uk to find out more.

Terms and conditions apply, please see individual offers on-line at greateranglia.co.uk/daysout

2 for 1 on open top bus tours of Norwich

CITY SIGHTSEEING

2 for 1 to a puppet show in this rare and glorious theatre

NORWICH PUPPET THEATRE

2 for 1 on river trips of

Norwich and the Broads

NORWICH CITY BOATS

Great Yarmouth

Great Yarmouth is Norfolk’s premier seaside resort, with its vibrant seafront and golden mile that runs

between two fun-packed piers. The town has the second most complete medieval town wall in England with several gate towers. Nelson’s monument is a stunning 44m tall memorial to Norfolk’s most famous son, Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson who frequently sailed from the town in the 1800’s. Several museums in the town recall Great Yarmouth’s maritime past and herring heyday, whilst the historic quayside plays host to the popular Maritime Festival in September. Also, with our 2 for 1 vouchers don’t miss your chance to marvel at fish at the Sea Life Centre and enjoy a show at the popular Hippodrome Circus – the last surviving total circus building in Britain.

There’s nothing quite like heading to the coast for a spot of escapism. No matter whether it’s a fun family day out with bucket and spade in hand, or a rejuvenating hike on the coastal path, Norfolk’s long coastline offers something for everyone. With so much to explore and so many 2 for 1 offers to take advantage of, what are you waiting for?

NORFOLK COAST


Cromer

Cromer, the Gem of the Norfolk Coast, is as delightful for modern-day holidaymakers as it was for Victorian and Edwardian tourists. Its famous pier spans the centuries; opening in 1901 it remains an un-spoilt pier, home to the country’s only remaining traditional end-of-the-pier variety show, the sell-out Seaside Special. Families thrill to go crabbing along its deck while fishermen cast long lines from dawn to dusk. When visiting, make sure you enjoy Cromer’s famous shellfish delicacies, caught early each morning by the crab boats lining the sand.

Buildingsand

castles :)

To the sea



Sheringham

Known for its blue-flagged beaches and beautiful floral displays, Sheringham also boasts the

popular Little Theatre together with an ardent shopping and arts scene. The regular Coasthopper bus service (which runs along the north coast every 30 minutes during peak season) and the quaint steam engines of the Poppy Line also allow visitors to explore further afield to such gems as the sweeping sands of Holkham, the beach-hut flanked beach at Wells-next-the-Sea, crabbing on the quay at Blakeney and a spot of seal spotting on a boat from Morston Quay. And if you love walking, cycling or horse-riding, be sure to explore the Norfolk Coastal Path – which will take you through the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, stunning in all seasons.


2 for 1 stall tickets to the all-new Summer Spectacular

THE HIPPODROME CIRCUS

2 for 1 entry to this amazing zoo in Cromer

AMAZONAZOO

2 for 1 entry to a magical

underwater world

GREAT YARMOUTH SEALIFE CENTRE

You can hire a boat catering for anything from a couple of hours self-manned pottering to a full week-long family holiday on a Norfolk Broad Cruiser. There is also 2 for 1 on guided river trips available with award-winning visitor attraction Broads Tours, offering shorter excursions for those wanting a leisurely afternoon trip. Or, if you fancy getting closer to the water still, why not hire a canoe or kayak from The CanoeMan. With their shop Paddles & Pedals Adventure Store in Wroxham, they can organise an adventure to suit everyone – from a half day trail to a 3-day bush craft experience. Check out our 2 for 1 offer with the CanoeMan online.

You can also explore the Norfolk Broads by foot or bicycle via the network of more than 300km of footpaths and cycleways, some of which pass the many waterside nature reserves.

Catch a train to Hoveton and Wroxham station and explore Britain’s Magical Waterland – the Norfolk Broads. One of Britain’s National Parks, it’s a unique place with a wide variety of wildlife and breath-taking scenery perfect for a short break or holiday.

NORFOLK BROADS


On the water

Download the 14 ‘Broads by Bike Trails’ at thebroadsbybike.org.uk. If you wish to take your bike on the train visit greateranglia.co.uk to check restrictions and make a reservation.

On a sunny day, why not enjoy the one mile walk north to picturesque Hoveton Hall Gardens and ever-popular Wroxham Barns with its Junior Farm, craft studios, gift shop, fun fair, mini-golf and restaurant serving locally sourced and home-cooked food.

See Wonderful wildlife on a cycle ride

2 for 1 on magical trips combining train, steam railway and a canoe trip down the river Bure

THE CANOE MAN



And finally, you came by train so why not explore by train with our 2 for 1 offer with Bure Valley Railway. This, Norfolk’s longest fifteen

inch gauge line, runs between Wroxham and the ancient market town of Aylsham. The 18 mile round trip runs through the picturesque Bure Valley countryside following the meandering river through meadowland and ancient pasture stopping occasionally at the small country villages of Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall.

Visit enjoythebroads.com for more information and to download footpath routes.


2 for 1 on Norfolk’s

longest narrow gauge

steam railway from

Wroxham to Aylsham

BURE VALLEY RAILWAY

2 for 1 on river tours discovering Britain’s magical waterland

BROADS TOURS

An abundance of heritage

Ipswich consists of more than 32 heritage sites spanning seven centuries in the history of Ipswich. From the Unitarian Meeting House built in 1699 and 16th century Christchurch Mansion (now a stunning museum and gallery including works by Constable and Gainsborough); to Pykenham Gatehouse built about 1471, sailing barge ‘Victor’ built in 1895 in Ipswich (one of the oldest remaining Thames sailing barges still working), and the Norman Foster designed Willis Building built between 1973-5 and one of the very few post-War buildings to be nationally listed as of Grade 1 importance. You can take advantage of 2 for 1 walking tours, City Sightseeing Bus Tours and Orwell River Cruises this year and discover the town from every angle.

Ipswich, with its stunning marina, plethora of historic architecture and arty cultural vibe, is a relatively undiscovered gem in Suffolk’s crown. Hop on a train to this surprising town and you might find you’re heading back time and time again.

IPSWICH


Retail Therapy

The compact, traffic free town centre is perfect for relaxed browsing and offers two large, under-cover shopping centres – Buttermarket and Tower Ramparts – plus historic streets with the favourite high street department stores you would expect along with unique independent stores. The area known as The Saints links the town centre with the stunning Waterfront area and its selection of quality, independent clothes shops, delicatessens and antique shops. The market is also open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, selling everything from clothes and jewellery to local produce and fresh fruit and vegetables.

An undiscovered gem

Great for shopping



Stay longer

Not only does the town boast a selection of affordable accommodation easy on the purse strings,

but overlooking the water you’ll also find a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant perfect for a special occasion – The Salthouse Harbour Hotel. A short break is perfect at any time of year, or you can choose to plan your stay around one of the town’s many festivals – be it Pulse, SPILL, Heritage Open Days, or August’s Maritime Festival.

For more information visit allaboutipswich.com or download the All About Ipswich App from the iStore.


2 for 1 weekday lunchtime main courses and desserts in this magnificent Ipswich restaurant

ARLINGTONS BRASSERIE

2 for 1 river trips from

the stunning Ipswich

Waterfront

ORWELL RIVER CRUISES

£50 saving – £145/room/night bed, breakfast & afternoon tea plus taxi from station.

SALTHOUSE HARBOUR HOTEL

Woodbridge – A Suffolk wonder

No matter whether your idea of an ideal short break is a spot of retail therapy, wining and dining, walking, cycling or even sailing, the riverside market town of Woodbridge has it all. Perfect for keen shoppers, it has a vibrant mix of shops, clothing boutiques, antique dealers, art galleries, book shops and much-adored Barretts of Woodbridge. There are many delicatessens, artisan bakers, independent grocers, butchers and an indoor Farmers Market to tempt you. Scrumptious food can also be found at more than 30 places to eat – from local cafés and historic pubs, to a Michelin listed restaurant and boutique hotel and townhouse inn, The Crown.

Woodbridge also boasts many iconic historical buildings, including recently restored Woodbridge Tide Mill where you can enjoy an exhibition recording the mill’s long history.

Bury St Edmunds – A classy retreat

Bury St Edmunds is a thriving market town rich in heritage, which has

evolved around the great Benedictine Monastery founded in 1020AD. The remains of the abbey can still be seen today situated in the award-winning Abbey Gardens. Adjacent is the magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral, the only cathedral in Suffolk, and don’t miss the Athenaeum where Charles Dickens held regular readings.

With its array of boutique and independent shops along St John’s Street and Hatter Street, high-street stores within the new ‘arc’ shopping centre, and the twice-weekly bustling market, Bury St Edmunds is the perfect destination for a day’s shopping. Many visitors decide to stay longer, which is no surprise when you consider the much sought after boutique hotels and restaurants, such as nationally acclaimed The Angel Hotel. For more details visit visit-burystedmunds.co.uk.

No matter where you head to in Suffolk, you’ll discover pretty and inviting towns and villages rich in character with a story to tell.

SUFFOLK TOWNS


Abbey ruins to Anglo-Saxon burial mounds

There are many other beautiful Suffolk towns to visit by train. To find out more, visit visitsuffolk.co.uk.



The Market Hill area is also graced with many buildings of historical interest, including an Elizabethan Shire Hall. Another fascinating place

to visit is Sutton Hoo, a group of Anglo-Saxon burial mounds managed by the National Trust. Situated just across the river from Woodbridge and open daily, you’ll discover an award-winning exhibition, a full-size reconstructed burial chamber, stunning replica treasures and original finds from one of the mounds. Woodbridge also offers many exhilarating walks overlooking the protected Deben estuary, bird-watching and the opportunity to sail.


£50 saving – £145/room/night bed, breakfast & afternoon tea plus taxi from station

THE ANGEL HOTEL BURY ST EDMUNDS

2 for 1 ticket offers in the

Grandstand & Paddock

Enclosure on a variety of

dates until September

NEWMARKET RACECOURSES

2 for 1 walk and boat cruise on the classic 1950’s cruiser ‘The Admiral’ from Beccles every Friday

BROADS NOSTALGIA

Lowestoft

Lowestoft is Britain’s most easterly town, and a favourite with families due to its eclectic mix of sandy

beaches, attractions, traditional seaside gardens and coastal walks. Children can enjoy donkey rides on the seafront, whilst adults can relax and enjoy an ice-cream or refreshing drink. North and south of Claremont Pier are some of the best beaches in Europe, both holding the Blue Flag Award. The pier, built in 1903, now boasts an award winning restaurant, family-orientated amusement arcade, a luxurious casino area and roller skating rink. And if that’s not enough you can end your day with a show at the town’s Marina Theatre. Why not stay for longer and rent a beach chalet or book yourself into one of the many star-graded B&B’s, hotels, caravans or holiday cottages.

By train with Greater Anglia you can travel to the sands and sea of Lowestoft and Felixstowe for a day, short break or holiday. And via our partnership with Anglian Bus, you can now plan a car-free trip to spectacular Southwold.

THE SUFFOLK COAST


Fun, freedom and

happy memories

Felixstowe

Nestled between the rivers of Orwell and Deben, Felixstowe has everything for visitors. Activities range from golf, swimming, a boating lake and sailing, or you can explore the wealth of history, shops and amusements. The four miles of sand and shingle beach are backed with colourful beach huts, gardens and a glorious pier. Children will enjoy a ride on the train which travels along the promenade, or a donkey ride on the sands. History lovers will marvel at the Edwardian architecture or choose to board the foot ferry linking Felixstowe to Bawdsey, home to Bawdsey Manor, the secret WWII facility and home to the invention of Radar. Equally historic are Felixstowe’s Martello towers, built between 1804 and 1812 to repel Napoleonic invasion. Felixstowe also has an unparalleled reputation among wildlife enthusiasts, attracted by the Landguard Bird Observatory.

Hop off the train and onto a bus

Why not explore more of the county’s beautiful beaches via the regular bus services operating daily. New for this year, travel to Halesworth via the East Suffolk Line and you’ll be able to catch an Anglian Bus to Southwold for only £2 single or £4 return. You can buy your bus ticket from any Greater Anglia station.

A sunset walk on the beach



Southwold

Southwold is perfect if you prefer a quieter pace of life. A quintessential seaside resort, its simplicity in

character and traditional nature create the perfect haven from the demands of a modern society. The award-winning beach runs alongside rows of the famous Southwold beach huts, gleaming in the sunshine in their candy colours. The pier houses gift shops, a newly renovated boardwalk café and the bizarre ‘Under the Pier Show’, whilst the high street is the perfect location for some retail therapy with its mix of designer boutiques, gift shops and splendid art galleries. Local food is also important in Suffolk, which is evident in Southwold’s variety of great cafés and restaurants serving local menus, exquisitely cooked and washed down with ale brewed at the local Adnams brewery. You can also walk down to the Blackshore harbourside for extremely fresh fish and the ferry across the River Blyth to Walberswick.


2 for 1 on cream teas weekdays in the Clockhouse Barista Coffee Bar

SOUTHWOLD PIER

2 for 1 entry to

Britain’s award-

winning and most

easterly museum

LOWESTOFT MARITIME MUSEUM

Heritage round every corner

In Cambridge, you can while away a day punting along the River Cam, passing age-old

colleges and immaculate lawns, climb grand sweeping staircases in the homes of the aristocracy and discover the University and its 31 colleges that dominate the centre with their atmospheric cobbled courts, chapels, gardens and bridges. You can also wander the many museums and galleries, and on the same day you could marvel at ancient Egyptian relics in the Fitzwilliam Museum, take a look at the original specimens that Darwin collected on his famous trip on The Beagle, or gaze upon old masters by artists such as Canaletto, Titian and Cezanne. Wander the winding streets and you’ll be following in the steps of the city’s luminaries including Charles Darwin, Alfred Tennyson and Sylvia Plath to name but a few. Poets, philosophers, scientists, medics, engineers, prime ministers and Nobel Peace Prize winners have all left their mark.

Why head to a busy airport for a city break when Cambridge, a beautiful city retreat to rival European favourites, is on your doorstep? Dowsed in heritage, stunning architecture, culture and shopping, not to mention being a favourite haunt of many the rich and famous, planning a day out or weekend away to Cambridge will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated and inspired.

CAMBRIDGE


A cosmopolitan city

Culture Abound

Cambridge has been the stomping ground of many now-famous actors, presenters and comedians, including Stephen Fry, John Cleese, Sue Perkins, Robert Webb and Emma Thompson, who cut their theatrical teeth performing as part of the renowned Cambridge Footlights comedy troupe, based at the ADC Theatre. Theatre lovers won’t be disappointed with the range of performances on offer, from student theatre to touring and West End shows. The Corn Exchange features a choice of entertainment, from comedy and music to ballet and classical concerts, and the Cambridge Arts Theatre is a lively regional theatre hosting a varied programme. The city is also laced with a plethora of galleries, including Kettle’s Yard – one of Britain’s finest galleries exhibiting a distinctive collection of 20th century, contemporary and modern art.

A cyclist’s paradise!

Why head to a busy airport for a city break when Cambridge, a beautiful city retreat to rival European favourites, is on your doorstep? Dowsed in heritage, stunning architecture, culture and shopping, not to mention being a favourite haunt of many the rich and famous, planning a day out or weekend away to Cambridge will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated and inspired.



A thriving shopping scene

The compact city boasts a wide choice of shops from the seven-days-a-week market in Market

Square to the myriad of cobbled and winding streets laced with boutiques, independent shops, designer labels and high street favourites. You can choose to potter the market to find something special – from fine cheese to books and paintings, or stroll down streets such as Rose Crescent and Trinity Street to discover some excellent independent shops and chic cafés. The pretty open-air All Saints Garden Art and Craft Market is open every Saturday, whilst the Grand Arcade is the city’s newest shopping centre with more than 60 premium and high street brands, including a flagship John Lewis. The Grafton, a short walk across Christ’s Pieces, is a shopping centre and cinema, and for a little bohemia and great eateries venture to Mill Road.


2 for 1 on a variety of tours of this fascinating and beautiful city on antique British bikes

CAMBRIDGE BIKE TOURS

2 for 1 on award-winning

‘College Backs’ tour with

Cambridge’s oldest and

most renowned punting

company

SCUDAMORE’S PUNTING COMPANY

2 for 1 on summer breaks at Cambridge’s boutique four star hotel

HOTEL FELIX

Colchester

Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, is a wonderful destination to mix some shopping with a

little heritage. Its narrow streets and winding lanes house a unique collection of independent and specialist shops, which sit alongside larger high-street names. You’ll also discover the award-winning Williams & Griffin independent department store, which offers great retail therapy and eateries. An eclectic mix of cuisines can be found across the town – from relaxed cafés and delicatessens to Indian and Thai restaurants. And if that’s not enough there’s heritage around every corner, including Colchester Castle and its impressive exhibitions and collections*. See visitcolchester.com for more details.

Essex is laced with pretty towns and villages adorned with historic pasts, fine dining and fantastic shopping, and none more so than its two biggest towns – Colchester and Chelmsford. Hop on a train and in no time you can be exploring the streets, restaurants and waterways.

ESSEX TOWNS


Colchester’s Castle Park, with its Green Flag award, is the perfect place to relax after shopping. You may wish to enjoy one of the many guided tours, or follow the marked walking trail through High Woods Country Park (once a royal hunting forest). The two and a half mile ‘Town to Sea Trail’ is also worth doing, taking you through the town centre to the historic port of the Hythe. Along the way you will spot fourteen unique, hand-forged artworks, all narrating the area’s heritage and wildlife. And if that’s not enough, there’s always award-winning Colchester Zoo situated on the outskirts of the city – promising a jam-packed day for animal lovers of all ages.

A wander around Castle Park,

then lunch in a nearby café

Step back in time

*Castle closed until early 2014 for an exciting redevelopment.

2 for 1 on a game of bowling on this family- friendly pier

WALTON PIER



Chelmsford

Chelmsford has been a market town since 1199, and is a great place to spend a day exploring places of interest mixed with a little shopping. The earliest settlers were the Romans, and a major Saxon burial site, now known as the ‘Saxon Way’, was found in Broomfield (north of the town) in the late 19th century. In the 17th century Witch Finder General, Matthew Hopkins, tried, imprisoned and hung many suspects of witchcraft. You’ll discover a monument on Writtle road in honour of lives lost during World War II, and don’t miss the second smallest cathedral in England with its intricate inner splendour. There’s also Chelmsford Museum showcasing the town’s history, and the Essex Police Museum with exhibits dating back to 1840.

A trip to Hylands House is also recommended – a stunning Grade II listed property set in 574 acres of historic landscaped parkland. Together with a café, new visitor centre, gift shop, artist studios and guided tours, you can make a day of it. Chelmsford is also good for a spot of shopping – from its market stalls to more than 50 leading high street shops in Meadows Shopping Centre.


One free child with fare

paying adult on bus

transfer and zoo entry

COLCHESTER ZOO

2 for 1 entry to English Heritage’s captivating Audley End House and Gardens

AUDLEY END HOUSE

Traditional family fun

With kids in tow, heading to the family-friendly seaside resorts of Clacton, Southend-on-

Sea, Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze makes complete sense. Many of the beaches hold the prestigious blue flag award, and when the children finally tire of building sandcastles and collecting shells there’s plenty more to explore. With our 2 for 1 offers you can enjoy the thrills and spills of the rides, amusements and bowling on the piers at Clacton and Walton, and be sure to explore the pier at Southend which is the longest pier in the world, or head into town for a spot of shopping finished with fish and chips in the beautiful seafront gardens. You’ll go home with happy memories to treasure until the next sunny day when you’re sure to head back for more fun.

The Essex coast, the longest coastline of any English county, has lots to offer visitors. From historic maritime towns and idyllic sailing hubs to the bucket and spade family entertainment at Clacton, everyone is guaranteed a fantastic time no matter what their age or interest.

ESSEX COAST


A little exploration

The Essex coast is also perfect for those wishing to explore the natural environment, scenery and waters. Spend a day walking or cycling along the coastal path discovering sandy beaches, sheltered rugged coves and wind-swept cliff tops. Learn about the area’s rich maritime heritage in historic towns such as Harwich and Dovercourt. Or perhaps uncover some history of your own with a spot of fossil hunting.

An afternoon at the seaside !

350 miles of seaside

2 for 1 games at Clacton-on- Sea’s premier entertainment venue



The sea is ripe for exploring too. Whether you opt for a couple of hours seal-spotting, an afternoon’s wind-surfing or a week’s sailing,

you’ll have a wonderful time. A ride on The Crouch Valley Line to the pretty and renowned sailing centre of Burnham-on-Crouch is a worthy day out alone, where every September the Premier East Coast Sailing Regatta ‘Burnham Week’ is held.

And don’t miss out on the many events along the Essex coast – from the annual Clacton air show in August to summer art trails, music festivals and carnivals.


Free starter or dessert

with any main course at

this American themed

family restaurant

CHARNALLIES RESTAURANT

2 for 1 on wristbands, SeaQuarium entry or a game of bowling at this family favourite seaside destination

CLACTON PIER

PAVILION BOWL

Once there, you can choose from a variety of activities including cycling, walking, horse-riding, canoeing and ice-skating. Thanks to the

legacy of London 2012, there is also now an adrenaline-fuelled white water rafting facility to test your nerve! Horticulturists and history lovers are also looked after with fantastic heritage sites, gardens, nature reserves and beautiful parkland, whilst the river offers relaxed river tours to while away an afternoon.

If you’re looking for an action-packed day out or short break, Lee Valley Regional Park should be top of your list. The Lee Valley is situated in London, Essex and Hertfordshire, and is easy to get to by train.

LEE VALLEY REGIONAL PARK


With such a host of activities children will never tire of a dull moment, especially with the addition of Lee Valley Park Farms. Children can make friends with animals ranging from sheep and pigs to llamas and meerkats, run free in the outdoor and indoor play areas, bounce on the giant inflatable pillow, test their speed on the toboggan run and hop aboard the trailer to see the cows with Hex the Tractor at the helm.

Beautiful gardens

to wander around

There’s nowhere else quite like it



With so much to see and do, Lee Valley Regional Park is perfect for a short break or holiday. There’s plenty of accommodation to choose from,

including riverside chalets, cosy cocoons, family cabins, hotels, B&B’s and the YHA London Lee Valley. With no need for a car once you’re there, why not use Greater Anglia’s regular services and leave the car at home. Bike hire is available from the park, or take your own bike with you instead.


2 hours for price of 1, or 4 for 2, on boat and cycle hire in the Lee Valley Regional Park

LEE VALLEY CANOE CYCLE HIRE

One child goes free with

an adult on Petunia’s

Picks days

LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS

Tourism TrailsExplore the East of England by rail with Greater AngliaTrain travel is the best way to explore the beautiful scenery, pretty towns and villages, stunning coastline, diverse nature and rich heritage of East Anglia. In the following section we’ll highlight tourism trails by train, many ideal for walkers and cyclists, and others perfect if you just fancy a potter at selected stops. No matter whether you’re planning a day trip or longer short break or holiday, there’s plenty to inspire you.


Norwich Salhouse

Hoveton& Wroxham

Worstead

NorthWalsham

Gunton

RoughtonRoad

Cromer

Sheringham

West Runton

Bittern Line Norwich to Sheringham

Tear yourself away from the fascination of medieval Norwich, and head north, through the picturesque Norfolk Broads. Look for waterbirds such as the pretty crested grebes dabbling on the water. Hop off the train at Wroxham to discover the waterways and wildlife on foot or by bike, or see the Bure Valley by steam train departing from Wroxham station. Continue through the Norfolk countryside until you catch your first glimpse of the sea as you head into Cromer, famous for its tantalisingly fresh crabs caught and sold locally. Further along the coastline, Sheringham is surrounded by wild expanses of woods and coastal heaths, and is home to the North Norfolk Railway.


Sudbury

Bures

Chappel & Wakescolne

Marks Tey

Gainsborough Line Marks Tey to Sudbury

Take the train from Marks Tey to Sudbury through the Stour Valley and you could be forgiven for thinking you have travelled back in time straight into one of Constable’s landscapes and understand why he was inspired. The same area inspired Thomas Gainsborough too, and you can see his paintings in the Georgian townhouse which was his birthplace at Sudbury. But before you get there, relax and enjoy leafy railway cuttings, the dramatic 32-arch Chappel viaduct and the fascinating East Anglian Railway Museum at Chappel station – a busy county junction in Victorian times and a must for rail enthusiasts.


Wherry Lines Norwich to Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft

The journey from Norwich to the east coast is a real treat. The Wherry Lines travel right through the heart of the Norfolk Broads, and from your train window you have the perfect viewpoint of waterways, windmills and wildlife. Both lines follow the River Yare as far as Reedham. Stop for a walk along the riverbank or a ride on the old chain ferry. Branch north through isolated Berney Arms and the nature reserves of Halvergate Marshes & Breydon Water to the mecca of fun, Great Yarmouth. Or branch south through Somerleyton where thatched cottages cluster around the village green and the Hall has fabulous gardens and a maze. Continue to the watersports paradise of Oulton Broad, and on to Lowestoft’s clean, sandy beaches.

Colchester

Colchester Town

HytheWivenhoe

Alresford Great Bentley

WeeleyThorpeLe Soken

Kirby Cross

Frintonon Sea

Clacton-on-Sea

Walton-on-the-Naze

Ipswich

Lowestoft

Felixstowe

Westerfield

WoodbridgeMelton

Wickham Market

SaxmundhamFramlingham

Sutton Hoo

Darsham

Halesworth Southwold

BramptonBeccles

Oulton Broad South

Bungay

Sunshine Coast Line Colchester to Clacton and Walton-on-the-Naze

From Colchester, the first Roman capital of Britain and oldest recorded town, head for the Sunshine Coast. The journey passes through the pretty riverside town of Wivenhoe, once the haunt of smugglers, and a good place to pause for lunch or a drink at a riverside inn. At Thorpe-le-Soken the line divides, heading south for the golden sandy beaches of lively Clacton, or straight on for Frinton-on-Sea with immaculate beaches and elegant high street. Walton-on-the-Naze is a big favourite with children, with the country’s second longest pier and cliff top walks on the grassy headland of the Naze.

East Suffolk Lines Ipswich to Lowestoft and Felixstowe

The East Suffolk Line links villages, ancient treasures, and some of the best walking and cycling countryside in Suffolk. From historic Ipswich, travel to Woodbridge and be intrigued by the picturesque tide mill on the River Deben. On the opposite bank is Sutton Hoo, the Royal Anglo-Saxon burial site with a fascinating visitor centre. Continue through countryside criss-crossed with tracks and footpaths, to the riverside town of Beccles, a gathering place for boating holidaymakers on the southern Broads. The line follows the Waveney Valley to Oulton Broad. Hire a canoe or a day boat and explore the waterways, or continue to the sea and sands of Lowestoft at the eastern most point of England.


Lee Valley Line Stratford to Hertford East

This river route takes you past wildlife sites and the green open spaces, river, canal and lakes which form the special “mosaic” landscape of the Lee Valley Regional Park, stretching 26 miles from London’s East End. Leave the train at Cheshunt and walk to Broxbourne, looking out for the bright flash of a kingfisher, or listening for the booming call of the rare bitterns which breed here. At Broxbourne you can hire a bike or a rowing boat, go fishing, or take a river cruise on the Lady of the Lee Valley. Hop back on the train for Hertford to browse in the antique shops and stroll around the ancient castle grounds.


Manningtree

MistleyWrabness

HarwichInternational

Dovercourt

HarwichTown

Mayflower Line Manningtree to Harwich

The southern banks of the Stour Estuary are rich in woodland and bird life, so sit back and enjoy this lovely countryside from the comfort of the train. Be charmed by the narrow streets of Manningtree, with its resident colony of swans, before heading off through Mistley. Your train passes right along the edge of the RSPB Stour Estuary Reserve, so keep your binoculars at the ready for sight of dunlin, redshanks and grey plovers. See container ships moving in and out of the busy Harwich International Port and finish in historic Harwich, home of Christopher Jones, Master of the Mayflower. See the restored Electric Palace cinema built in 1911, and the splendid Napoleonic Redoubt Fort.

Wickford

Battlesbridge

WoodhamFerrers

NorthFambridge

Althorne

Burnham onCrouch

Southminster

Crouch Valley Line Wickford to Southminster

The river estuaries along the Essex coast are internationally important for vast numbers of birds which find food and shelter across the tidal saltings. So bring your binoculars as the Crouch Valley line travels right through this important habitat. Look for flocks of dunlin, lapwing and plovers in winter, as well as thousands of waders, ducks and geese. Your journey takes you to the major yachting centre of Burnham-on-Crouch with many historic buildings on the waterfront and footpaths along the estuary. The next station is Southminster, and both are ideal places to hire a bike and explore the surrounding countryside and the lonely little St Peter’s Chapel at Bradwell.

Flitch Line Witham to Braintree

Take the train from Witham to Braintree Freeport on the Flitch Line. For the keen bargain hunter, the Freeport Braintree Shopping Village is bliss. This shopper’s paradise houses a fantastic array of more than 85 stores selling recognised names and designer brands with up to 60 per cent off. The ultimate in priceless shopping! Braintree Freeport train station is directly opposite the shopping village.

Hereward Line Ely to Peterborough

Explore the unique landscape of the Cambridgeshire Fens on the cross-country route linking these two cathedral cities. Starting at Ely, where the ancient cathedral known as the ‘Ship of the Fens’ dominates the skyline, you can also visit Oliver Cromwell’s House and the City Museum or spend a quiet hour by the riverside. Leaving Ely, you cross the Ouse Washes, constructed by Dutch engineer Vermuyden in the 18th century to drain Fen marshes, and now the site of one of the most significant wetland wildfowl reserves in England. Arriving at March, you can visit St Wendreda’s church or the town museum to find out more about Fenland life. On through Whittlesea, where ancient traditions such as the Straw Bear Festival can be seen alongside Must Farm, one of the most important Bronze Age sites in Europe, and in Peterborough, home of Queensgate Shopping Centre an the Nene Valley Railway.


Greater Anglia has a range of great value tickets available. To plan your journey and find the best offer for you simply go online to greateranglia.co.uk

GroupSave

For a really great day out with friends or family, think Greater Anglia – and GroupSave. It’s a magical combination that will get everyone out and about with ease – and amazing savings. It’s so simple. When two adults buy an Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak ticket, one or two more people travel free. Plus, up to four accompanying children can travel for just £1

each when accompanying a GroupSave party. GroupSave is available to all Greater Anglia stations. There’s also no need to book ahead – just turn up, ask for GroupSave and go.

Rangers and Rovers

Ranger and Rover tickets allow unlimited travel in various rural areas of the network. They are perfect for exploring the region, allowing you to hop on and off the train when and where you like. The Wherry Line Ranger ticket gives unlimited travel through the Norfolk Broads between Norwich and the coastal resorts of Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, while the Bittern Line Ranger ticket allows one day’s unlimited travel on the line from Norwich, through Hoveton & Wroxham and North Walsham, to the north Norfolk coastal towns of Cromer and Sheringham. Both tickets are only £8.50 per adult and children travel for £4.25, or purchase a Family ticket for £19.

The Anglia Plus One Day Ranger is only £17 per adult, with up to four accompanied children travelling for just £2 each. Or if you’re planning a longer holiday, Anglia Plus ‘Three Days in Seven’ Flexi Rover gives you all the flexibility of the One Day Ranger for just £34 per adult – which means your third day’s travel is free! You choose whichever three days you would like to travel on within a seven day period – and children are still just £2 each.

Produced by Visit East Anglia, designed by Anne Reekie, printed by Ancient House Press. Photography: Dave Guttridge, Visit Britain, and Andy Hay & Jon Evans (RSPB images).

This publication has been produced using Carbon Balanced and FSC® Certified paper, and vegetable based inks. Using Carbon Balanced Paper on this publication has saved 1223kg of CO2, and preserved 102.73sq.m. of critically threatened tropical forest through the World Land Trust.


For more information on the region, events and accommodation visit visiteastofengland.com

Other useful websites when planning a trip to the beautiful region of East Anglia: visitnorfolk.co.uk | visitnorwich.co.uk visitsuffolk.com | visitcambridge.org | visitessex.com

WALKING

HERITAGE

EXPLORING

WILDLIFE


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Days out by train in East Anglia