The summer holidays are upon us and for parents this brings the terror of having to fill the days of easily bored children. However, there are plenty of things to do in Norfolk whatever the weather.

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill

Norwich's Norman castle is the perfect place to ignite a love of history in any child. The Castle is not solely about the past contained within its walls though, as it boasts fabulous collections of fine art, archaeology, and natural history as well as the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum collections to enjoy.

Hollywood Bowl, Wherry Road, Norwich

Bumpers, or no bumpers, bowling is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. With all the excitement of getting strikes and spares, hopefully the competitiveness can stay to a reasonable level to avoid any splits in the family…

Sea Life Sanctuary, Hunstanton

The newly refurbished Hunstanton Sea Life sanctuary has lots of attractions to offer visitors. You can see seals in the underwater seal viewing area, observe otters playing together, and handle a variety of creatures in the rock pools.

The Playbarn, West Green Farm, Shotesham Road, Poringland

Growing up in Norfolk is not complete without a visit to the Playbarn. Set in the countryside this fun farmyard based play centre has lots to offer families with children aged 7 and under. Hours of fun can be had diving into the ball pool and climbing the play frame while outdoors there are dens to explore, diggers to play on and so much more.

UEA Sportspark, Norwich

The UEA Sportspark has a vast array of activities to help kids get active, whether that's in the water, on the pitch, or on the court. Meaning whatever sport you're interested in, the Sportspark provides the perfect place to cater to that pursuit.

Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, Gressenhall

Scare your kids into behaving by making a visit to Gressenhall, where you can explore fascinating new displays and discover the voices from the workhouse. Hear real stories of those who lived and worked within its walls and find out about the impact of this intriguing institution.

Happisburgh Owls, Lighthouse Lane, Happisburgh

Alan Partridge knows a 'cracking owl sanctuary' in Norfolk and you will too after you visit Happisburgh Owls and meet Sandra who runs the place. You can hold the Owls while learning about these fascinating birds from Sandra, meaning that visiting here will clearly be a hoot for all ages.

Norwich Cathedral, Cathedral Close

Building began on Norwich Cathedral in 1096, which ensures it attracts visitors from well outside our fine city, with it boasting the second largest cloisters in England. The Cathedral dominates the Norwich skyline and is a brilliant and free historical attraction for all ages, who can also relax in the Cathedral's café (upon which building began slightly later than 1096).

Hippodrome Circus, Great Yarmouth, 43 St George's Road

The Hippodrome was recently selected as one of the '7 wonders of the British Seaside', and it is easy to see why as it presents its brand new Summer Spectacular show, which includes amazing circus acts from all around the world.

Blickling Hall, Blickling

Blickling Hall offers fun for all ages as you explore the grounds and the hall through the eyes of people who lived there in days gone by. Follow the trail through the house finding objects that tell their amazing stories and let your kids have fun dressing up in historical costumes.

Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich

See a show at Norwich's premier theatre which features the best of West End shows from big musicals to great dramas, alongside dance, comedy, family shows, opera and music. Meaning there truly is something for everyone.

High Altitude, 91 Whiffler Road, Norwich

At High Altitude you can experience the thrill of jumping, flying, and flipping on wall-to-wall trampoline courts. The trampoline arena has 80 interlinked trampolines, Slam Dunk lanes, an awesome airbag to practice tricks and a Dodge Ball court where tournaments can take place.

The Muckleburgh Military Collection, Weybourne Military Camp

This place is heaven for any little soldier boys or girls. You may even be able to drag them off their games consoles to take a look at real weapons rather than those on Call of Duty and so on, as the Muckleburgh Military Collection is Norfolk's largest working museum of military vehicles including tanks, guns, and a large range of other weapons.

The North Norfolk Railway, Station Approach, Sheringham

Are your kids loco about trains? If so bring them here so they can enjoy a trip on one of these fascinating vintage trains. There is surely no better way to enjoy the beautiful North Norfolk landscape.

Funky's, Burton Road Business Park, Spar Rd, Norwich

Funky's have a purpose built maple wood roller skating rink and an amazing adventure play area which stretches over 3 floors! Where better to spend a whole day out with activities to suit all ages. Let the children run wild in the play area or go for a skate with them on the rink if you dare.

Time and Tide Museum, Blackfriars' Road, Great Yarmouth

Come and explore this museum housed in a converted Victorian herring curing works and take an exciting journey into the past. Discover Great Yarmouth's fascinating history, its rich maritime and fishing heritage, and some of the colourful characters who made their living from the sea.

Quasar, 17-19 St Stephens Road, Norwich

Sessions for under 16s run every Saturday and Sunday all year long, starting from 9am and ending at 11am, with players provided with at least 4 games and a free small slush to cool off. Quasar is the zero contact way to get the thrills of combat in a futuristic and immersive arena!