At the end of the year, I am moving away from Norfolk and there are a lot of things that I will miss.

Bibimbap from The Kimchi in NorwichBibimbap from The Kimchi in Norwich (Image: Jamie HoneywoodArchantNorwichNorfolk)

1. The incredible restaurants 

North Norfolk and Norwich in particular are home to some truly sensational restaurants.

Some of my favourites include The Kimchi in the city centre, serving Korean comfort food, Socius in posh Burnham Market for special occasions and The Gunton Arms gastropub in Thorpe Market for its open-fire cooking. 

Holkham Beach is great for winter walksHolkham Beach is great for winter walks (Image: Ian Burt)

2. Beautiful beaches 

I grew up in the south of England and the beaches were always crowded - Bournemouth is utter hell in the summer.

In contrast, you are spoilt for choice in Norfolk and even at the height of summer, they are not unpleasantly busy.

But I much prefer visiting for a walk in the winter, whether that is exploring Holkham or seeing the seals at Horsey. 

Heydon Village Tea RoomHeydon Village Tea Room (Image: Newsquest)

3. Quaint villages 

There are lots of charming villages to visit in Norfolk.

In Heydon, near Aylsham, you can sit in the award-winning tearoom and watch the world go by.

Elsewhere in North Creake, you can visit the ruins of an Augustinian Abbey with the Creake Abbey shopping village next to it. 

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People shopping at Norwich MarketPeople shopping at Norwich Market (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

4. The vibrancy of Norwich 

Norwich has a special place in my heart as it is where I have lived for more than a decade - ever since starting my degree at UEA in 2013.

It is home to many independent businesses and I discover something new every time I go into the city centre. 

Suranne Jones, president of Sheringham Little TheatreSuranne Jones, president of Sheringham Little Theatre (Image: Richard Batson/SLT)

5. Brilliant theatres

Norwich Theatre Royal welcomes major tours, with 2025 shows including Hamilton and Hairspray. 

But there are amazing venues across the county.

Sheringham Little Theatre is doing brilliant things in the community and has received a boost since award-winning actress Suranne Jones was appointed president earlier this year. 

Elsewhere, unique venues such as Thursford, featuring a 130ft stage, and Great Yarmouth's Hippodrome Circus are currently welcoming audiences from across the country for their Christmas shows. 

A child celebrating Norfolk DayA child celebrating Norfolk Day (Image: Newsquest)

6. Local pride 

For the most part, people living in Norfolk feel very proud to live there.

The success and uptake of Norfolk Day celebrations in recent years have shown that. 

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The Lord Mayor's Weekend paradeThe Lord Mayor's Weekend parade (Image: Norwich City Council)

7. Summer events 

Norfolk is at its best in the summer and as well as various concerts at estates, including Sandringham and Blickling, there are plenty of great free events.

The Lord Mayor's Weekend in Norwich is always brilliant fun, though I really miss the pirate ship party they used to have in Westlegate!