Arts and crafts in Norfolk
Norfolk (including Breckland, Broadland, Great Yarmouth, Kings Lynn and West Norfolk, North Norfolk, Norwich and South Norfolk) is in the East of England of England. It has a population of around 860,000 and covers approximately 540,000 hectares. Here is a list of nearby or neighbouring counties: Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Suffolk.
The land that became Norfolk was largely shaped by its location on the east coast, the flooding of low lying areas and erosion of its clay and chalk cliffs. Once home to Boadicea and the Iceni, the history of the county was influenced by invasion and occupation from across the sea. Until a few centuries ago the county was among the more densely populated parts of the country, though it now has one of the lowest and much of it is protected National Park. Millions of tourists are drawn to Norfolk each year, visiting coastal resorts such as Cromer, Waxham and Great Yarmouth and areas of outstanding natural beauty such as the Broads. Many also visit Sandringham House, a private residence of the Royal Family since it was bought by Queen Victoria in 1862. Performing arts venues in Norfolk include the Theatre Royal in Norwich, the Corn Exchange in Kings Lynn, the Norwich Playhouse, the Hippodrome Circus in Great Yarmouth and Sheringham Little Theatre.
The county town Norwich has many Medieval buildings and its attractions include The John Jarrold Printing Museum and Norwich Castle Museum, which has exhibits including artefacts from local history, paintings, ceramics and silver. Another popular attraction is the Norfolk and Norwich Festival which is now held each May. The event was first run in 1824 and has roots dating back to 1772, making it one of the oldest arts festivals in Britain. Also located in Norfolk is Oxburgh Hall, a 15th-century moated house where visitors can see needlework created by Mary Queen of Scots, and the 16th-century Elizabethan House Museum in Great Yarmouth, with exhibits from the lives of its former residents such as period costumes, furnishings and coins. Other attractions in Norfolk include the Bridewell Museum in Norwich, the Time and Tide Museum in Great Yarmouth, Norwich Cathedral, Houghton Hall, Wymondham Abbey, Norwich Arts Centre and Holkham National Nature Reserve.
