Things to Do in Norfolk in January

January is prime pupping season at Blakeney Point, you'll navigate 8 km (5 miles) of tidal creeks in flat-bottomed boats while grey seal mothers watch from sandbanks, their pups' white coats bright against winter-brown saltmarsh. Morning tours catch the seals at their most active, before they retreat to higher ground as the tide rises.

The reed beds turn bronze and gold in January light, and mist rising off the water at dawn creates atmospheric shots impossible in summer. The 6 km (3.7 mile) route from Wroxham to Horning passes windpumps silhouetted against winter skies, with frost-rimmed boats moored along the banks and no summer boat traffic to ruin your shots.

January means proper Norfolk comfort food, the hearty stews and game pies that kept medieval merchants alive through winters. The narrow lanes around Elm Hill serve Norfolk dumplings the size of tennis balls, while the 14th-century Adam & Eve pub pours dark ale that's been brewed the same way since monks lived here.

January is when the famous Cromer crab boats still go out, though storms keep them closer to shore. You'll watch the distinctive red-sailed boats launch from the shingle beach at dawn, learn why the chalk reef here produces sweeter crab meat, and taste it steamed fresh on the pier while fishermen mend nets in the tiny wooden shacks.

The royal estate opens its 60 km (37 miles) of trails in January, when the ancient oaks stand bare and you can spot deer herds that hide in summer undergrowth. The route through Wolferton marshes passes the Queen's private bird hides, and the tea room serves Norfolk cream teas with homemade scones that taste better when your fingers are cold.