Words: Natalie Douglas

Fifty shades of gold

Autumn in Norfolk brings a rich, bold palette. Think copper beeches at Sheringham Park, golden oaks at Blickling, and fiery field maples across the hedgerows. Sunsets take on richer hues, casting amber light over reedbeds and fields of stubble. Even the skies seem more dramatic, sharp against the silhouettes of barns and windmills. It’s a season to walk slowly, look up, and collect moments of colour.

Scent of the season

Nothing says autumn quite like Apple Day at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse. Set against the red-brick backdrop of this historic site, the air is rich with the scent of crushed fruit and woodsmoke. Watch traditional cider pressing and learn about heritage Norfolk fruit varieties with the East of England Apples and Orchards Project (and have your own orchard fruit identified). Kids can craft, press juice, or roll apples in village games, plus there’ll be rare breed animals, traditional steam threshing demonstrations, and much more. This year the event takes place on Sunday 12 October.

Legends of the fall

As the nights draw in, Norfolk’s folklore creeps closer. From the eerie Black Shuck, said to stalk coastal paths, to the lost Babes in the Wood at Wayland Wood near Watton, this county is stitched with stories. Hear the tale of the Sheringham mermaid whose singing turned to sorrow, or the Warham fiddler, lost underground to the faerie folk. Check out the Norfolk Folklore Society podcast on Apple or Spotify for an evening of spine-tingling tales.

Make for the Maltings

As the temperature drops, head indoors for stories, music and atmosphere at Wells Maltings. With a packed programme of ghostly tales and local legends, acoustic gigs and heritage talks, there’s something to stir every soul. Grab a drink from the bar, settle into your seat, and let the sounds and spoken word carry you through the evening. See what’s on and book at www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

The call of the wild

In the quiet parkland of Holkham, something ancient stirs. Autumn is rutting season, when the estate’s fallow stags roar and clash in displays of wild power. Walk the paths near the obelisk, keeping your distance but your ears tuned for that unmistakable bellow. It’s a rare chance to witness nature’s drama on your doorstep. You can also hop aboard Holkham’s tractor-trailer for one of their deer and wildlife safaris from 25 to 31 October where you can learn more from a knowledgeable guide. 

Padel to the metal

Tennis might be timeless, but padel is the new racket sport in town, especially with courts just outside Fakenham, Reepham and Holt. With its walls and fast-paced rallies, padel stays lively even as daylight shortens. Bundle up for early evening games and sip a post-match hot chocolate in the clubhouse. A great autumnal twist on networking.

Beck to basics

Wendling Beck, a restored chalk stream in the heart of Norfolk, takes on a singular charm in autumn. Bank-side reeds turn amber, fish glide beneath fallen sycamore leaves, and returning kingfishers flash electric blue. Follow the quiet footpath from Wendling village and you may spot otter spraint, hear a water rail’s call or glimpse trout in riffles. 

Grand design

Wolterton Hall, the recently restored 18th century Palladian gem near Itteringham, has swung open its doors with a rich art and culture programme running until 2 November. Inside the Marble Hall, discover ‘Sea State’, an exhibition of site‑specific pieces by Maggi Hambling and Ro Robertson that dialogue with the grandeur of the space. In the Portrait Room, Hambling’s emotionally charged ‘Time’ series brings intimate reflection to an historic setting. Visit Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm (pre-booking essential), and explore art, architecture, a cafe and walks in one elegant destination.

Nature’s spectacle

From late October, thousands of birds arrive at the likes of NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes on their migratory routes; from waders and geese to rare visitors blown off course. Bring binoculars and soak in the stillness. Or head to Horsey Gap from late October, when grey seals begin gathering on the beach at Horsey for pupping season. It’s a breathtaking sight with pups on the sand, adults in the surf. Stick to the dunes and viewing points for the best views and keep dogs on short leads.

Eyes on the skies

With four designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites in our area – Wiveton Downs Car Park, Kelling Heath Holiday Park, RSPB Titchwell Marsh nature reserve, and Barrow Common in Brancaster Staithe – you’ll find some of the clearest, most awe-inspiring views of the cosmos, with little to no light pollution. This year’s Dark Skies Festival, presented by the Norfolk Coast Protected Landscape team, launches on 10 October at Blakeney Village Hall, with talks, storytelling, music and local catering. The festival programme features a series of free events during autumn and winter, from astronomy and wildlife talks to biofluorescent walks. Follow their Eventbrite page ‘Norfolk Coast Partnership’ for details.