It is an opportunity for tourism businesses across England to celebrate the quality of accommodation and attractions on offer.

Eastern Daily Press: Mel Cook of VisitNorwich at the recent launch of Norfolk Day in Dereham's Market Place. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYMel Cook of VisitNorwich at the recent launch of Norfolk Day in Dereham's Market Place. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Archant)

Taking place in spring each year, English Tourism Week is aimed at raising the profile of the industry and celebrating the country's burgeoning tourism sector.

And there are few places where that is more visible than in Norfolk where the industry continues to grow from strength to strength.

Interim head of tourism for VisitNorwich, Melanie Cook, said the initiative from March 19 to 23 was a chance to shine the spotlight on the wonderful things there are to see and do in the city and county.

'This is a time when we're all encouraged to make a point of visiting somewhere we haven't been or to do something we haven't done in a while,' she said.

Eastern Daily Press: The Maids Head Hotel. Picture: Lightening PhotographyThe Maids Head Hotel. Picture: Lightening Photography (Image: Archant)

'It is also a great time to share a tourism experience with family and friends.'

A number of local attractions have events planned for the week with special offers on the go.

In Norwich free guided walking tours covering the history of the city will take place along with free open-top bus tours with City Sightseeing.

At Norwich Castle, once entry has been paid, there are a number of free activities planned for March 17 and 24 which visitors can take part in while City Hosts, which are the brainchild of Norwich Business Improvement District, will be giving out 50 white roses daily from Monday to Friday.

Eastern Daily Press: Fairhaven gardeners John Debbage, Michael Hadji and student Lewis Goldspink at work on phase two of the main bridges path last year. Picture: Fairhaven GardenFairhaven gardeners John Debbage, Michael Hadji and student Lewis Goldspink at work on phase two of the main bridges path last year. Picture: Fairhaven Garden (Image: Fairhaven Garden)

The Maids Head Hotel in Tombland also has a number of events on the go including a classic English Afternoon Tea. Peter Rye, the grandson of former owner Walter Rye, will be unveiling a photograph of his great-grandfather and will also open eight newly refurbished bedrooms.

General manager Christine Malcolm said they were pleased to play their part in the week long celebration.

The Writers' Centre Norwich will uncover more than 20 of the region's independent bookshops while paralympic swimmer, Jessica-Jane Applegate and Councillor David Ward, Chairman Broadland District Council, will officially open the completed Main Bridges Path project at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden in South Walsham on March 20.

Full details of English Tourism Week can be found on individual businesses websites or at: Visit Norwich