Norfolk is full of things to do, but did you know that it’s also packed with things to do for motorcycle enthusiasts?
Whether you’ve just got your first bike or you’ve been riding for decades, we guarantee there’s a hidden treasure on this list that you’ve never heard of.
1. Norfolk Motorcycle Museum
Based in North Walsham, the museum is filled to the rafters with a stunning collection of motorcycles from the 1900s all the way up to the 1980s. The owners have brought together over 150 bikes from the local area, including some lesser-known names such as Cotton and Excelsior. There’s even a Henderson on display!
With such a large collection of vintage motorcycles, it’s small wonder that the owners have developed a wealth of knowledge about vintage motorcycles, and they also perform repair and restoration work, supplying both original and replica parts. They’re happy to chat with visitors, so be sure to ask them questions as you wander between the rows of incredible bikes they’ve collected over the years.
2. Great Yarmouth Wheels Festival
What was previously known as the Great Yarmouth Motorcycle Takeover is now in its fourth year. Its rapid growth has meant that its joined forces with the Great Yarmouth Wheels Festival to bring together lovers of two and four wheels alike. This year, an incredible 15,000 motorcycles are expected to descend onto Great Yarmouth!
It will also feature an Autojumble, which will bring together people from across the UK who can help you find hard-to-find parts, accessories, and merchandise
3. Two Wheel Tuesdays
Meets are an important part of riding, and you’ll struggle to find one better than Two Wheel Tuesdays at the Ox & Plough in Old Buckenham.
The weekly event was founded by the owner of the pub, Ben Devlin, who wanted a way to celebrate his passion for motorcycles. What started as a 30 bike event (half of which were Ben’s) now regularly attracts over 700 bikes, ranging from vintage models to top range sports bikes.
Aside from the liquid refreshment offered by the pub, there’s also a curry van, as well as sausages and burgers on offer. We can’t think of a better way to spend a Tuesday evening.
4. The Coast Road - A149
Known as “The Coast Road”, the A149 is a 34-mile stretch of road linking Cromer and Hunstanton. Don’t be put off by the fact that Prince Philip had his infamous January 2019 crash on this road! The A149 isn’t for thrill-seekers.
Instead, the Coast Road is included here for its pleasant ride, with beautiful views of the North Norfolk coast, and plenty of twists and turns rises and falls. There are also dozens of coastal towns to stop at for a rest and some chips by the sea, making it a perfect choice for someone looking for a worthwhile scenic trip.
5. Route 11
Located on the A11 near Attleborough, the Route 11 cafe is a fantastic destination for visitors from all walks of life, but particularly for bikers.
Billed as a biker-friendly cafe, there are lockers available for helmets and gloves, and even an attached shop that sells motorcycle clothing and accessories. The gear is well-priced and good quality too, so you can enjoy delicious, locally sourced food and pick up a new helmet at the same time!
Route 11 also offers live music, charity rides, and even training events. And, to top it all off, there’s a biker meet on Sunday nights, but we recommend turning up a little early for their delicious Sunday roast!
6. Hit The Dirt
If you’re looking for somewhere to ride off-road, you won’t find anywhere better than Hit The Dirt.
This premier off-road facility is based in Swaffham and offers a well-maintained dirt track that the team works hard to keep open whatever the weather. But don’t worry; safety is their priority, so you know you’re in good hands.
They also offer a youth track for smaller bikes and quads, and they’re currently developing a course for trial riders too. So if you want to go off-road in Norfolk, Hit The Dirt has covered all the bases!
7. Norfolk Advanced Motorcyclists (NAM)
Formed in 1984, NAM offers a range of training and advanced tests that can improve your riding skills. As they’re affiliated with the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), this training is top-notch; it’s actually based on the riding techniques used by the police!
NAM also arranges regular events, including a monthly club night on the third Thursday of every month at The Cottage pub on Thunder Lane in Norwich. They meet at 7.30 pm, and the night often includes speakers on a range of subjects to do with bikes and biking. And with regular rides arranged which are arranged to be both safe and interesting, it’s hard to find any reason not to take a look.
These are our favourite hidden treasures, but is there anything we missed? Tell us all about your favourite hidden treasure in the comments and maybe we’ll add it to this list!
The last stop
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