St Benet’s Abbey is a ruined abbey of the Order of Saint Benedict, situated on the River Bure within The Broads and can only be accessed by footpath or boat.

http://stbenetsabbey.org/

Open daily, from 23 March to 30 October 2016. The waterside museum of Broadland life is based at the historic and picturesque Stalham Staithe. A family friendly site with plenty trails and activities for children. Why not bring a picnic to enjoy by the river and make a day of it. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

http://www.museumofthebroads.org.uk/

Stalham Firehouse opened in 1833 and is understood to be one of the oldest organised fire brigades in Britain. Visit the wonderful collection of historical fire brigade related items including an original horse drawn pump engine. Volunteers are on hand with a good humoured wealth of knowledge to guide, explain and enhance your visit.

http://www.stalhamfirehousemuseum.co.uk/

The museum, which is located on the site of the world’s longest continuously operating radar site, provides a unique window into the history of radar and is a great day out in Norfolk, for all the family. The museum is located at Neatishead, close to Horning and the Broads. The museum has 20 exhibition rooms and as part of the visit offers talks on the early development of Radar and the Cold War.

www.radarmuseum.co.uk

The ivy-clad ruin of St Mary’s church is one of Norfolk’s best-kept secrets, tucked away in the tiny village of East Somerton between the shallow waters of Martham Broad and the coastal town of Winterton-on-Sea.

The building, which was abandoned sometime in the 17th century, is normally hidden in a wooded grove. Yet, as the autumn foliage falls to the ground, the ruined church, half-wrapped in evergreen vines, reveals itself. Only the 13th-century tower and the 15th-century nave remain – the chancel is completely missing. Enter the building through the cathedral-like arch, once the doorway to the church.

There is an majestic aura around the church and a thin oak tree, that stands alone slap bang in the centre of what would have been a church, is said to be the work of a local witch, stemming quite literally from the witch herself. According to legend, during the height of England’s witch trials, a suspected witch was buried alive in the church. The buried witch, in her suffering, is said to have enchanted her wooden leg to sprout a tree that would destroy the church above. The legend goes on to say that if anybody were to walk around the tree three times, the witch’s spirit would be released.

However, it’s believed ghostly monks haunt the church and keep intruders from releasing her spirit. Don’t let this put you off visiting this impressive and wonderful historic site.