The Local Area & Beyond
Set in a rural location down a country lane, just off of the A149, Bengate is a small rural hamlet within the parish of Worstead. Being here you have a sense of being away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but just 6 miles from the North Norfolk coast and in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, as well as being within easy reach of the city of Norwich, and all amenities in the local market towns of North Walsham, Aylsham, Wroxham and Stalham.
Just a short walk from the cottages is a path onto the Weaver's Way, a cycling and walking route which runs for 61 miles from Cromer to Great Yarmouth across farmland, coast and countryside, as well as Bacton Woods and the Marriot's Way cycle route being close by, so bring your walking boots, or bicycle, or you can hire one from us.
The village of Worstead is less than one mile away and has The White Lady public house and famous St Mary's Church. There is also the Cross Keys at Dilham (2.5 miles). The market town of North Walsham is 2.5 miles, with supermarkets of Waitrose, Lidl and Sainsbury’s, alongside many independent stores, public houses, a leisure centre with swimming pool, as well as other amenities such as banks, a library, petrol station and a main post office.
DAYS OUT
There is no shortage of things to do in and around North Norfolk. We are always happy to make some suggestions if you let us know what you would like to see and do. Here are a few of our favourite day trips:
Weavers Way - This footpath and cycleway can be picked up right from our doorstep. Linking the north Norfolk coast at Cromer to the east Norfolk coast at Great Yarmouth, the 61 mile Weavers’ Way passes through a diverse landscape of woodland, mixed farmland, historic country estates, disused railway lines, riverside walks and the famous Norfolk Broads.
The Norfolk Broads - The Broads are a National Park and stretch across both Norfolk and Suffolk. There are plenty of places close by to rent a boat and explore the varied waterways for yourself. Alternatively take a day trip to one of the many villages on the river such as Horning.
Happisburgh - This is our closest beach, just 6 miles away. The small and historic village of Happisburgh has a secluded sandy beach and a fascinating history showing the earliest signs of humans in Britain. The constantly changing coastline, its 18th century lighthouse and 15th century church makes Happisburgh a fascinating place to explore.
Horsey Gap Seals - The beaches at Horsey and Winterton are home to some of the largest colonies of Grey Seals to be found anywhere in the UK. From November to the end of January the beach will be crowded with Seals and their new born pups, during the summer months the seals can be seen lying on the beach or bobbing in the surf.
Cromer - A favourite with families looking for a more traditional seaside holiday. With great sandy beaches, museums, surfing, plenty of attractions and wonderful walking along the Norfolk Coast Path. Famous for its pier, home to a lifeboat station and Pavilion Theatre.
Blakeney - The lovely coastal village of Blakeney is one of the most enchanting on the North Norfolk Coast and is one of our favourites. Blakeney village is set on a small hill leading down to the harbour and has pretty flint cottages, shops, cafe's, restaurants, hotels and pubs. Blakeney is also a National Nature Reserve and Blakeney Point is home to wildlife and England's largest grey seal colony.
Blickling Estate - Nobody ever forgets their first sight of Blickling. The breath-taking Jacobean mansion and ancient yew hedges sit at the heart of a magnificent garden and historic park in the beautiful Bure meadows. With over 4,600 acres to explore, Blickling's parkland is the perfect place to take your four-legged friend for a walk.
The City of Norwich - Norwich is a wonderful fusion of the modern and historic, one complementing the other. Like any great city its centre is easy to walk around and has a river at its heart. As well as being the most complete medieval city in the UK, it has a flourishing arts, music and cultural scene, superb independent as well as High Street shopping, lively restaurants, bars and nightlife and a heritage that is a delight to explore.
BeWILDerwood - An adventure park for families located between Wroxham and Horning. Self-described as a "curious treehouse adventure," the attraction is situated in a woodland area and features tree houses, rope bridges, slides, zip wires, a maze, and two special areas for children under five called "Toddlewood-on-the-Hill" and "Tiptoe Valley".
PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
If there is one thing we really enjoy it's good food and drink, whether it's cooking at home or visiting one of the local pubs or restaurants, there are plenty of options to cater for all tastes. Again, here are a few of our favourites:
The Gunton Arms - Located in the village of Gunton about 5 miles from Bengate, the Gunton Arms is a traditional pub within an extensive historic park. The chef Stuart Tattersall (ex head chef at Mark Hix) cooks from local ingredients including venison from the surrounding deer park.
The White Lady - The local pub in the village of Worstead is less than one mile up the road. Offers a good selection of ales and serves traditional 'pub grub'.
Steak in the Stix - A new steakhouse brasserie dedicated to showcasing Norfolk’s finest produce. Ingredient-led, seasonal and rich, their menu is a journey of East Anglia’s finest ingredients.
Rocky Bottoms - Enjoy some of the local seafood right next to the sea! Delivering local shellfish from pot to plate in a laid back environment.
The White Horse Inn - Located close by in Neatishead on the Norfolk Broads this pub has its own micro-brewery and an extensive menu.
Ali Spice Indian Takeaway - For something a little bit spicier, Ali Spice in Coltishall is our go-to for a good Indian takeaway.