Norfolk Boats, Trains & Seaside
What a beautiful day for our trip out on the water. On arrival at the boat yard, we spotted our
vessel and with the roof open we set off along the broads with the sun shining
on our faces with a lovely breeze. On the boat we relaxed and watched the world
go by and waving to the other holiday makers on the water. We became wildlife
watchers spotting several birds, cormorants, a heron and lots of ducks to name
but a few.
We did laugh when we spotted the floating ice cream boat! And of course we needed little persuasion to stop and treat ourselves to one!
The
sun was shining, and we had a wonderful morning sailing and watching the
cormorants airing their wings after watching them dive for fish. We all got a go at steering the boat and agreed we would make great captains!
It was off to
Holt station and luckily for us they were running a vintage train service. Our journey
took us to the old seaside town of Sheringham and we were thrilled when
we heard the chug chug and smelt the steam coming from the train. As we climbed
aboard, we noticed how spacious the carriages were, and the seats were super
comfy. We travelled through some beautiful countryside and along the sandy
coastline. Before long we had arrived in Sheringham and took a stroll down the
high street stopping at many of the quaint shops along the way looking for
those all-important souvenirs! A picnic lunch was enjoyed on the sea wall
making the most of the sea views! A few of us were keen to head down to the
pebbled beach and dip our toes in the water whilst the others were happy
relaxing in the afternoon sun and watching the little blue canoes which were
bobbing around. For our return journey we decided to take a diesel train back to Holt which is
over 80 years old.
It was down to the
seafront before heading to the hippodrome for the oldest circus in the world. One of the most
striking features of the Great Yarmouth Circus is its water show, a spectacle
that has been a core part of its performances since the early days. As the
floor of the stage dramatically descends, it fills with thousands of gallons of
water to create an aquatic arena. This transformation allows for stunning
synchronized swimming, daring dives, and mesmerizing light displays that bring the
aquatic world to life. This signature element of the circus creates a sense of
magic that few other venues can replicate. Today’s performance featured
a mix of traditional acts, such as acrobats, clowns, and tightrope walkers,
alongside contemporary elements like pyrotechnics, laser shows, and live music.
Another ice cream treat was a welcomed afternoon pick me up!
Teamwork was certainly needed on the canoes and before long, with instructions from Leo we were paddling in unison and managed to get some good speed up! We paddled for a good few hours and couldn’t believe how much distance we had actually covered! It had been a great experience, and we all agreed we could give the Olympic rowers a run for their money!
We
had a little time to enjoy a walk around the Broadwalk, a wooden walkway built
over the marshland. Here we got to see yet more wildlife in their natural
habitat as we walked along the pathways before it opened up to a huge platform
on the broads where you could see the sailing boats and cruise boats going by. It
was a lovely way to spend the morning.
We headed straight to the games room, where we let our competitive sides shine. From
connect four to beanbag throwing our sporting side definitely came out.
The evening entertainment never disappoints. From musical extravaganza's to a night with Abba! In true JollyDays style we were always the last on the dance floor! 
Then,
in true VIP style, we travelled to the shooting field on a golf buggy, ready
for some archery and rifle shooting. Archery proved to be a highlight.
David S, Simon, and Niel showed they could easily join Robin Hood on his next
adventure, hitting the targets with impressive precision. Zoe was a natural,
consistently hitting the mark, and David V did a fantastic job improving with
each shot. Lee and Katie cheered us on from the sidelines. We were thrilled
when we all received medals for our archery skills—what a rewarding experience!
Next up was rifle shooting, a first-time thrill for Niel, Simon, and both
Davids. With eyes on the targets and fingers on the triggers, they showed some
serious skill. David S and Niel led the way, but David V and Simon weren’t far
behind, landing several hits on distant targets. Another set of medals for the
collection—proud moments all around!
