Highlights of the East of England by rail and ferry

Arrive in Harwich on the overnight ferry from the Hook of Holland. Take the train to Ipswich and change for Norwich. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, taking in the 11th century castle which dominates the centre and 12th century cathedral.

Norwich is the best-preserved medieval city in the UK and is also a top shopping destination, with excellent independent stores in The Lanes.

The city is also a cultural hub with a vibrant nightlife, many theatres, traditional pubs and restaurants.

Take the Bittern Line to Cromer, a traditional seaside town with Victorian pier. You could take a stop at Hoveton and Wroxham and spend a little time enjoying the waterside heart of the unique Norfolk Broads and pop into Roys, the world’s largest village store.

At Cromer you could take the train to Sheringham, and then enjoy a ride on the North Norfolk Railway, otherwise known as The Poppy Line, a heritage steam train that goes to the Georgian market town of Holt.

In the evening, perhaps enjoy a variety show at the Pavilion Theatre, the world’s last end-of-pier theatre and definitely get take-out fish and chips and sit on the seafront enjoying the view while you eat. For the authentic experience, make sure you apply lots of salt and vinegar to your chips.

Return to Norwich and then take the train to Cambridge, stopping at Ely to see the ‘Ship of the Fens’, a magnificent 11th century cathedral.

In Cambridge explore one of the world’s great university cities – enjoy a walking tour and take to the water on a traditional punt to see The Backs of the colleges from the River Cam.

The city has good nightlife, including atmospheric pubs and many restaurants.

Take the train from Cambridge to Harwich via Ipswich for the evening ferry, stopping off at Bury St Edmunds, the best-preserved medieval Wool Town in the UK with magnificent Abbey Gardens and St Edmundsbury Cathedral, and Georgian town centre.