Set on the edge of Thornham, North Norfolk, overlooking unspoilt expanses of salt marshes, our traditional pub with rooms is a cosy spot to hunker-down in, come rain or shine. A two hour drive from Cambridge and just over an hour from Norwich, escape the city for an autumn break and explore the area.
MORNING
Be sure to break up the journey with a visit to one of the region's most recognisable stately homes. Houghton Hall and their award-winning garden was constructed in the 18th Century and has since become the location of many contemporary art exhibitions, playing host to many well-known names. The estate will soon close for winter, but reopens in the spring.
If you're visiting The Lifeboat out of season, you may choose to stop-off at Sandringham Estate instead which is open all year round. As well as being a country retreat for Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the 400 acre estate plays host to many events throughout the year including their Exclusive Access Tours and Winter Light Trail.
Reach The Lifeboat Inn around midday and settle in for a warming lunch by the fireplace. If you're visiting during November, be sure to check out our Norfolk Restaurant Week special menu.
AFTERNOON
Having refuelled over lunch, lace up your walking boots and head outside once more to nearby RSPB Titchwell Marsh. A nature reserve owned and managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, it sits on a beautiful stretch of beach. Inland, freshwater lagoons are full of wildlife throughout the year, from ducks to wading birds, and if you're lucky you may sight a Marsh Harrier overhead.
EVENING
Exhausted by all the adventures of the day, freshen up in your bedroom before an autumnal dinner in our conservatory or dining room. Expect small plates and seasonal dishes, sharing boards and stone-baked pizza!
MORNING
Wake up to the sound of seabirds and head downstairs to enjoy a cooked Norfolk breakfast and something continental from our breakfast table.
Pull on your coat and head back out on foot to explore the other nearby nature reserve, Holme Dunes National Nature Reserve. Either save our Peddars Way & Norfolk Coast Path walking map to your phone, or collect a physical copy at the bar and while away a few hours along the boardwalk and down country lanes. If the sun is shining, you may even choose to do a spot of wild swimming before lunch!
AFTERNOON
Having explored much of the local coastline by foot, you may be feeling like hopping in the car for a slow-paced afternoon warming up in tearooms and doing a spot of independent shopping. Burnham Market, often referred to as Chelsea-on-sea, is a fifteen minute drive away and offers a picturesque backdrop to your afternoon. If you have a little more time, Creake Abbey offers a shopping experience in their courtyard, plus a short walk around the abbey ruins.
Head back to The Lifeboat Inn for a drink in the historic bar and another seasonal dinner. If you're staying on a Sunday, be sure to check out the Sunday Special Dinner, Bed and Breakfast offer to enjoy your dinner at half price.
MORNING
Say goodbye to your coastal hideaway and enjoy one last excursion on your way home. If you've got the brood with you, they may want to meet the seals at SeaLife, Hunstanton. Or, gem up on your history and visit one of the most famous 12th Century castles in England, Castle Rising.
To find out more about our autumn stay packages and to check bedroom availability at The Lifeboat Inn, click here.
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