Sandringham and Hand-Stitching in Norfolk 2027

Sandringham and Hand-Stitching in Norfolk

20th – 26th June 2027

Join Carolyn in picturesque Norfolk, a county steeped in history, beautiful countryside and home to the unique Norfolk Broads. We will spend time in the medieval city of Norwich where we will uncover the counties textile heritage, and visit the opulent Houghton Hall, which showcases the opulence, refinement and embroideries of the Georgian era, and explore the royal estate of Sandringham, where the late Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the Royal Family escape the public eye.

Add to this a scenic cruise on the Norfolk Broads, a nostalgic steam train journey through the Bure Valley countryside, and two full-day workshops with Carolyn, and this is sure to be a truly remarkable escape!

Taking inspiration from exhibits at Norwich Castle Museum, our hand-sewn project will be wonderful memento of our time in Norfolk.

Accommodation

You will stay for six nights at the 4-star Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort.

Located in rural Norfolk, the 4-star Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort is an Elizabethan-style country retreat dating back to 1859. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, featuring all your essential facilities and exceptionally comfy beds. Enjoy fantastic dining experiences in the Brasserie Restaurant while taking in the stunning views of the hotel’s garden.

Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrival

Make your own way to Norfolk in beautiful East Anglia, known for its wide-open skies, flat landscapes and charming rural character.

On arrival, meet Carolyn and your Tour Manager at Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, located approximately six miles from the centre of Norwich, and check in to your rooms from 3pm.

This evening you will be able to get to know your fellow guests at our included welcome dinner.

Day 2 Guided Walking Tour Of Norwich

This morning, our guided walking tour of Norwich will take us through centuries of fascinating architecture, from the towering cathedral and ancient city walls to hidden courtyards and medieval churches. As we walk the cobbled streets, stories of Norwich’s rich past come to life – from its days as a thriving wool trade and shoe making hub to its literary and artistic legacy.

This afternoon, we will learn more about the city’s rich textile heritage during our private visit to the Norfolk Costumes and Textile Collection at the Norwich Castle Study Centre. Here, we will be able to view and hear about various items including quilts, Norwich Shawls and embroidery samplers made by Norfolk girls from the region’s past.

You will also be able to visit the Norwich Castle Museum, including the newly restored Castle Keep where you will be able to see a 20m embroidery made by volunteers who have mastered the original Bayeux stitch.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Day 3 Workshop

Today we will enjoy our first, full-day workshop with Carolyn in the hotel.

Included Meals; Breakfast, Dinner.

Day 4 Houghton Hall and Sandringham Estate

Departing the hotel after breakfast, today we explore some of Norfolk’s stately treasures. We begin with a visit to Houghton Hall, an elegant 18th-century mansion. Alongside the grand interiors and sculpture gardens, you’ll discover exquisite textile embroideries – from intricate needlework panels to historically inspired designs that reflect the craftsmanship of past centuries.

The day continues with a visit to Sandringham Estate, often referred to by the late Queen Elizabeth II as a ‘royal retreat’ where along with other members of the Royal Family, she could escape the public eye.

Sandringham House, surrounded by beautifully kept gardens is nestled in the heart of the estate and is filled with family heirlooms, fine art and richly furnished rooms offering a glimpse into royal life. In the house, you will have the opportunity to see the Dining Room Tapestries gifted by King Alfonso XII of Spain, as well as visit Sandringham Museum with its collection of former royal vehicles and St Mary Magdalene Church, the church the royal family attend when in residence at Sandringham.

Included Meals, Breakfast, Dinner.

Day 5 Bure Valley Railway and Norfolk Broads Cruise

Norfolk offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, heritage and relaxation and today we will experience some of what the county has to offer! We journey into the beautiful countryside and step back in time with a nostalgic excursion on the Bure Valley Railway, a heritage steam train that winds through the picturesque countryside between Aylsham and Wroxham crossing 17 bridges.

We then take to the water on a traditional paddle steamer on the tranquil waterways of the Norfolk Broads, where windmills, reeds, and wildlife provide inspiration and create a uniquely peaceful atmosphere.

Included Meals; Breakfast, Dinner.