Norwich is surrounded by beautiful countryside. Here are nine of our favourite places around 30 minutes from the city by car.

Eastern Daily Press: Flowers blooming by the water at Ranwoth Broad. Picture Dan MasonFlowers blooming by the water at Ranwoth Broad. Picture Dan Mason (Image: Archant)

• Ranworth Broad

Comprising of three hectares of wet grassland and woodland and scrub, Ranworth Broad holds many attractions for its visitors including an informative boardwalk and floating Broads Wildlife Centre which provides visitors with panoramic views across the water, as well as a free exhibition on the creation and development of the Norfolk Broads.

Eastern Daily Press: Couple walk hand-in-hand at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden. Picture: James BassCouple walk hand-in-hand at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden. Picture: James Bass (Image: Archant Norfolk © 2014)

• Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden

Created by Major Henry Broughton, Fairhaven Woodland and Water is a 130-acre organic garden with three miles worth of fully accessible paths to walk along, eye-catching spring-time flower displays and daily boat trips.

Eastern Daily Press: Views across the lake on the Blickling Estate.Views across the lake on the Blickling Estate.

• Blickling Estate

Widely accepted as the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, the grand hall at the head of the estate is rich in history, making it not only a great sight to see, but also an interesting site of education. Spend a day taking a tour of the house, catching the costumed performers and exploring the secret garden.

Eastern Daily Press: The Betula serpentine walk at East Ruston Old Vicarage.The Betula serpentine walk at East Ruston Old Vicarage. (Image: Supplied)

• East Ruston Old Vicarage

Open from March to October, and located close to the sea, these gardens are made up of a mixture of exotic plants, unusual themes and interesting sculptures. Take a romantic stroll through the Rose Garden or lose yourself for a while in the woodland section.

Eastern Daily Press: Views from Happisburgh Lighthouse. Picture: David HarperViews from Happisburgh Lighthouse. Picture: David Harper (Image: davhar)

• Happisburgh Lighthouse

A little over half an hour away from Norwich, you will find the oldest working lighthouse in East Anglia. Happisburgh Lighthouse was built in 1790 and sits on high ground, providing stunning views across the surrounding countryside areas and coast line.

Eastern Daily Press: Hellesdon - Marriott's Way. Photo: Bill SmithHellesdon - Marriott's Way. Photo: Bill Smith (Image: Archant © 2012)

• The Marriott's Way

The 26-mile footpath, bridleway and cycle route runs between Norwich and Aylsham and showcases some of the best parts of Norfolk's countryside. The finishing point, Aylsham is a quaint, historical town filled with 18th century buildings, interesting shops and tearooms. A great place to spend a leisurely afternoon away from the big city.

Eastern Daily Press: A photo of Wymondham Abbey and a stormy sky. Picture: Collin WillisA photo of Wymondham Abbey and a stormy sky. Picture: Collin Willis (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

• Wymondham Abbey

The Abbey was founded in 1107 as a community of Benedictine monks and today serves as Wymondham's Anglican Parish Church. Steeped in history and showcasing beautiful architecture this is a nice venue to visit come rain or shine.

Eastern Daily Press: Raveningham Hall Millenium lake. Picture: Simon FinlayRaveningham Hall Millenium lake. Picture: Simon Finlay

• Raveningham Estate and Gardens

Raveningham is a traditional rural Estate located south of Norwich, home to Sir Nicholas and Lady Bacon. The Hall boasts ten acres of beautiful Edwardian style gardens that are open to the public from April to August.

Eastern Daily Press: Sunrise at St Benets. Picture: PicasaSunrise at St Benets. Picture: Picasa (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

• St Benet's Abbey

A site of inspiration for many artists and photographers over the years, St Benet's Abbey is a unique combination of the ruins of a gatehouse and mill. Situated away from roads and other buildings in the depths of Broadland, surrounded by vast open sky, the area is extremely atmospheric and tranquil, making it the ideal place to go to get away from the modern world.

• What are your favourite places in Norfolk? Let us know below.