Norfolk

Blossom is a sure sign that spring has arrived. Nature's own confetti, nothing lifts the spirits quite like the beauty of pink or white petals adorning trees in the springtime. Here's some of the places that might be local to you, where you can witness this seasonal highlight in East Anglia.

Do you enjoy wandering around gardens, seeking inspiration for your own or perhaps they're a place to escape to if you lack your own green space? Find out what's in bloom, as well as some fascinating facts, myths and meanings behind the flowers we grow and what to look out for at this time of year.

Blickling Estate springs into life with the changing of the seasons. Look out for snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils, magnolia and wisteria followed by one of the most breath-taking displays of bluebells in the region.

Signs of spring are everywhere at Felbrigg. Daffodils bloom around the hall and bluebells in the woodland. Camellias and rhododendrons can be found in the West Garden, and more exotic plants in the Walled Garden, including the azara, which has an amazing scent.

The wild garden at Sheringham is at its best in spring. Rhododendrons take centre stage from early March to mid-June, with giant pierises, magnolias, snowdrops, handkerchief trees and bluebells. Listen for the song of the blackcap and skylark and look out for deer, brown hares and maybe a basking adder.

Oxburgh Hall is currently undergoing an exciting restoration and it's all thanks to your support. Whilst work continues on the roof, enjoy a walk around the landscape, discovering new areas of the parkland. Check our opening times for the latest information, as to when the house is open.

Spring on the Norfolk coast brings a flurry of new sounds. At the end of March the sandwich terns return, common terns and little terns join through April, and in May, oyster catchers, avocets and ring plummers will sing, display and lay eggs. Brent geese say goodbye at the end of April, filling the sky with honking.

Between February and May look out for boxing brown hares, dancing common cranes and marsh harriers. Frogspawn will be in abundance, butterflies will appear, from rare swallowtails to daffodil yellow brimstones and the season will finish in a finale of carpets of bluebells.

Norfolk is a great place for a day out with the family. From crabbing at Blakeney, cycling at Blickling, wildlife watching at Sheringham Park, as well as plenty of space to enjoy a walk at Felbrigg and Oxburgh Hall.

Throughout Norfolk there are many trails and footpaths that will take you through stunning scenery, from the iconic coastline to the Norfolk Broads. As well as the coastal path, head off the beaten track at Sheringham Park, Felbrigg Hall and Blickling Estate.

2020 was the 125th anniversary of the National Trust and although our birthday year didn't turn out quite like how we planned, we took the opportunity to look back at where it all began. Here are some of the key moments in our history of caring for special places, in the East of England.

Go behind the scenes at Sheringham Park and discover 1,000 acres of glorious parkland, woods and clifftops. Learn about the designer who sculpted the landscape, Humphry Repton, and meet the staff and volunteers who keep his vision alive today.

Each week we're sharing one of our popular recipes with you, that you can try at home. If you're a vegan or taking part in veganuary, then you might like this week's vegan chocolate fudge cake.