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10 romantic date ideas in Norfolk inspired by your favourite movies holiday cottages

10 romantic date ideas in Norfolk inspired by your favourite movies

Inday Harrison 29 January 2025

Norfolk is the perfect place for a romantic escape, with stunning beaches, charming villages and bustling eateries providing a beautiful backdrop. Whether you’re looking for an intimate escape or an adventurous outing surrounded by nature, there is a large array of different options to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. 

With Valentine’s Day coming up, Norfolk Cottages has rounded up 10 romantic date ideas in Norfolk, all inspired by the most popular romantic movies, allowing you to experience the magic of Norfolk through the lens of your favourite movies. From passionate love stories to funny rom-coms, these movies have us gripped and make the most exciting date ideas in Norfolk.

Imagine stepping into the world of Notting Hill, wondering through quirky bookshops and sipping coffee in charming cafés in the heart of the Norwich Lanes, or enjoying a dazzling evening inspired by Moulin Rouge! with a glamorous night at The Theatre Royal in Norwich followed by a candlelit dinner. These date ideas will transport you to the unforgettable worlds of your favourite films, with many beautiful cottages for you to stay in close by.


The Notebook: Hire a boat on the Norfolk Broads

A large sailing boat floating down the river with passengers on a sunny day at the Norfolk Broads.

One of the world’s most famous love stories, The Notebook is a romantic movie about Noah and Allie who fall in love one summer in the 1940s. Despite coming from different social classes, their love grows strong, but they become separated. Years later, Noah reads their story to Allie, who has Alzheimer's, reminding her of their deep connection. The film shows the power of love and how it lasts through time and challenges.

A boat ride through the peaceful waters of the Norfolk Broads echoes the legendary scene and romance of Noah and Allie’s unforgettable summer. The beauty of the landscape, lush greenery and open skies create an intimate and timeless atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date. As you glide along the river, the gentle hum of the boat and the occasional sight of wildlife will create a magical atmosphere. The best place to rent a boat for the day is from Wroxham Launch Hire, allowing you to explore the beauty of the Norfolk Broads at your own pace.

Good to know

  • Price: From £20 per hour
  • Address: Wroxham Launch Hire, Kings Staithe, The Bridge Hoveton Wroxham, Norwich NR12 8DA
  • Places to eat: Water’s Edge
  • Stay nearby: 20 Trail Quay Cottages | sleeps 4 

Pretty Woman: Go on a shopping spree in Holt

A woman holding multiple shopping bags while wearing an elegant white suit in Norfolk.

Pretty Woman is a famous romantic comedy about a wealthy businessman, Edward, who hires a charming but struggling woman, Vivian, to be his escort for social events. As time goes on, they develop a deep connection and fall in love despite their differences and backgrounds. As their relationship deepens, they confront insecurities and challenges in their different worlds which leads to Edward discovering that love and happiness is worth more than money and status.

One of the most iconic moments in the film is when Vivian enters a high-end boutique but is turned away due to the saleswoman assuming that she does not belong in the store, however, Edward returns with her and showers her with attention and expensive gifts. One of the best date ideas in Norfolk inspired by this movie, is to shop until you drop in the pretty market town of Holt, which has many independent stores such as Bakers and Larners, Tilly & Grace, Fairfax and Favour and many more. The town is known for its popular high street and the trip can be finished with a delicious and romantic lunch at Byfords, Holt’s most chic café/restaurant/deli.

Good to know


Notting Hill: Explore Norwich’s bookshops, visit the Lanes and go for coffee

A stack of books on a table in a cosy bookstore in Norwich.

Notting Hill is one of the most charming romantic comedies that follows the unlikely love story between William Thacker, a humble owner of a small bookshop in Notting Hill, and Anna Scott, a glamourous Hollywood actress at the peak of her fame. The pair meet when Anna visits William’s bookshop and their worlds collide. The movie is filled with humour, a cast of quirky characters, love and vulnerability. 

The Norwich Lanes is the perfect place to feel like you are on the set of Notting Hill. It is an award-winning area steeped in history and home to the city’s finest independent restaurants, bakeries, cafés and shops including many popular bookshops. Norwich is known as England’s UNESCO City of Literature and is often referred to as ‘The City of Stories’. A romantic, laid-back date idea is to explore the winding Lanes in Norwich together, visit cosy cafés and explore Norwich’s many bookstores. One of the most popular is The Book Hive, a personal favourite of the famous writer Margaret Atwood, known for her iconic novel, The Handmaid’s Tale.

Good to know

  • Price: Free
  • Our favourite: The Book Hive, 53 London St, Norwich NR2 1HL
  • Places to eat: Bread Source
  • Stay nearby: Garden Cottage | sleeps 2

La La Land: Watch your favourite movie at a cinema in Norwich

A man and woman cosying up at the cinema while eating popcorn in Norfolk.

Another famous love story is La La Land. The vibrant musical romance tells the story of an aspiring actress called Mia and a passionate jazz musician, Sebastian, as they chase their dreams in Los Angeles. The two meet and fall in love, supporting each other through the ups and downs of their careers. However, as their ambitions start taking them in different directions, they face hard choices about their relationship and personal goals. There are many emotional moments and dazzling musical numbers in this movie, making it a fan favourite and one of the most famous love stories. 

One of the most famous scenes in La La Land is where Mia and Sebastian go on a date to watch a classic film at the movie theatre. Here, their feelings for each other deepen and they hold hands for the first time. One of the best date ideas in Norfolk is to visit Norwich’s unique three-screen cinema, Cinema City, with your loved one. This amazing and quirky cinema experience is set in a beautiful historic building, which adds to its appeal. It has a pretty bar and café serving snacks and hot or cold meals to enjoy before or after the film, plus a pretty courtyard.

Good to know

  • Price: Adult tickets from £13.25
  • Address: Cinema City, St Andrews St, Norwich NR2 4AD
  • Places to eat: Cinema City Bar & Kitchen
  • Stay nearby: The Firs | sleeps 8 + 2 dogs

Dirty Dancing: Attend a fun dance class in Norwich

A man and woman dancing together at a dance class in Norfolk.

Dirty Dancing is one of the most famous love stories. The storyline follows a determined young woman named Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman, played by Jennifer Grey who transforms herself over the summer at a resort. She meets Johnny Castle, played by Patrick Swayze, a charismatic yet misunderstood dance instructor who teaches Baby how to dance and follow her own path in life. The pair fall in love when they put aside Johnny’s rough edges and Baby’s strict parents' wishes. Their relationship is a celebration of mutual respect, trust and liberation.

One of the most legendary scenes in Dirty Dancing is the climactic final performance to ‘(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life’ where Baby and Johnny take the stage together and surprise everyone. One of the most romantic date ideas in Norfolk would be to attend a fun dance class, stepping out of your comfort zone and channelling your inner Baby and Johnny! Whether you and your partner are total beginners or already have some rhythm, there are many great dance classes to attend in Norfolk. For a more romantic feel, salsa, swing or tango are fun classes to attend. One of the most popular dance classes is held by Dance Devotion, which offers private, group or social dance classes in Norwich.

Good to know

  • Price: Prices start at £32 for a private dance class
  • Address: Dance Devotion, St Catherine’s Church Hall, Aylsham Road, Norwich NR3 2RJ
  • Places to eat: Benedicts
  • Stay nearby: The Palms | sleeps 2

Bridget Jones Diary: Book a cosy night at a Norfolk cottage with a roaring fire

A photo of the cosy living room inside Caitlin Cottage in Holt, Norfolk with a roaring fire.

Bridget Jones is another notable romantic movie that follows the misadventures of Bridget Jones, a single thirty-something woman who is navigating love, her career and self-improvement in London. Bridget, played by Renée Zellweger, is trying to take control of her chaotic life by documenting her journey in a personal diary. Along the way, she finds herself torn between two very different men: a dashing but unreliable boss, Daniel Cleaver (played by Hugh Grant), and the reserved yet endearing Mark Darcy (played by Colin Firth). The story is filled with humour, awkward moments and heartfelt realisations, and explores self-acceptance and the ups and downs of modern relationships.

A date idea inspired by this renowned love story is a peaceful evening at one of Norfolk Cottage’s holiday homes. The cottage stay can be accompanied by a warm, indulgent meal either at the cottage or a nearby pub or restaurant, reminiscent of the intimate gatherings that Bridget enjoys in the film. The evening can then be finished with a decadent dessert or a glass of wine, making this date idea equal parts fun and romantic, just like Bridget Jones's Diary.

Good to know


Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Enjoy a fancy afternoon tea or brunch

A hand reaching for a delicious cupcake on a stand at afternoon tea in Norfolk.

Another fan favourite when it comes to romantic movies is Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The classic romantic comedy-drama centres on Holly Golightly, a glamorous but enigmatic young woman living in New York City, played by Audrey Hepburn. Holly spends her days mingling with high society and dreaming of a life of wealth and luxury, symbolised by her love for the luxury brand Tiffany & Co. She has a vulnerable side and a troubled past, but her life takes a turn when she meets Paul Varjak, played by George Peppard, a struggling writer and her new neighbour, who becomes infatuated with her. The pair fall in love and the movie explores themes of identity, the search for belonging and the discovery of what truly matters in life. 

One of the most famous scenes is when Holly goes window shopping at Tiffany’s and enjoys a coffee and a croissant. A date idea inspired by Breakfast at Tiffany’s is to go for an elegant afternoon tea at The Assembly Rooms in Norwich, followed by a fun day window shopping throughout the city with your loved one. The Assembly Rooms is known for its popular themed afternoon teas such as Peter Pan, Beauty and The Beast, Alice in Wonderland, Narnia, and more. Norwich has many beautiful streets lined with independent shops and two busy shopping centres; Chantry Place and Castle Quay, with many popular brands such as Flannels, Zara, H&M, Jarrolds, and more.

Good to know

  • Price: Classic afternoon tea from £32.50
  • Address: Assembly House, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RQ
  • Stay nearby: Wyatt House | sleeps 4 

Gone with the Wind: Explore Blickling Hall and the sprawling countryside

A photo of the driveway leading up to Blickling Hall and its surrounding grounds on a blue sunny day.

Gone with the Wind is a historical romance set during the American Civil War and its aftermath. It follows the life of Scarlett O’Hara, played by Vivien Leigh, who is a strong-willed Southern woman. The storyline begins with Scarlett’s idyllic life on her family’s plantation in Georgia, but her world is turned upside down by the Civil War and the fall of the Confederacy. Scarlett is deeply in love with Ashley Wilkes, played by Leslie Howard, but he marries someone else. Scarlett then forms a complex relationship with Rhett Butler, played by Clark Gable, and despite their fiery romance, Scarlett refuses to let go of her past which leads to heartbreak and tragedy. 

A beautiful date idea inspired by Gone with the Wind is to explore Blickling Hall, taking in the views of the beautiful, sprawling Norfolk countryside. Blickling Hall is a stately estate surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland that mirrors the grand plantations of the American South in the movie. You and your loved one can wander through the perfect gardens, taking in the lush greenery and majestic views which are reminiscent of Scarlett O’Hara’s life before the war. There is also a range of dining and retail options at Blickling Hall including The Stables Café, which serves light bites, sandwiches, cakes and hot/cold drinks.

Good to know

  • Price: Adults £16.50 | Children £8.30 | Family £41.30
  • Address: Blickling Hall, Blickling, Norwich NR11 6NF
  • Stay nearby: Harvest Moon | sleeps 3 

Moulin Rouge!: Attend the Theatre Royal followed by a romantic candlelit dinner

A photo of the stage at Norwich Theatre Royal before the show starts with crowds of people sat in seats waiting.

Moulin Rouge! is a vibrant and visually stunning musical, set in 1900 Paris. It centres around the iconic cabaret club and the story follows Christian, played by Ewan McGregor, a young writer who moves to Paris with dreams of creating a better life. He meets Satine, played by Nicole Kidman, a dazzling star at the club. The pair begin a forbidden romance – due to Satine being in a relationship with the wealthy Duke who has the power to save the cabaret from financial ruin. This love triangle unfolds amidst lavish performances and luxurious costumes.

A fun date idea inspired by Moulin Rouge! would be to visit the Norwich Theatre Royal for a captivating performance similar to the thrills of the Moulin Rouge! Cabaret club. The theatre hosts spectacular shows featuring music, drama and dance including international ballet with a romantic vibe. The show could be followed by a candlelit dinner and drinks at Jorge’s, a popular Portuguese restaurant known for its delicious food and romantic ambience.

Good to know

  • Price: Tickets from £10 | Prices vary depending on seats
  • Address: Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre St, Norwich NR2 1RL
  • Stay nearby: Oakdene | sleeps 4 

Wuthering Heights: Explore windswept landscapes

A landscape shot of Holkham Beach on a blue sunny day with some clouds, showing the dunes, beach and sea.

Another fan-favourite romantic movie is Wuthering Heights, a tragic story of obsessive love and revenge. In this ITV adaptation, Tom Hardy plays the orphaned boy, Heathcliff, who gets adopted by Catherine Earnshaw, played by Charlotte Riley, and her family. Despite their deep love, Catherine marries a wealthy man and Heathcliff becomes jealous and seeks revenge on everyone who wronged him. The novel is set on the Yorkshire Moors amongst rolling countryside and moody scenery. 

A Wuthering Heights-inspired date in Norfolk would be all about embracing nature’s wild beauty. A romantic walk on one of Norfolk’s quieter and untouched beaches with your loved one, such as Holkham Beach, will evoke strong emotions where the open expanse of the sand and sea mirrors the isolation of Wuthering Heights. The day can be finished with a delicious dinner at a local pub around a roaring fire, such as The Victoria which serves lovingly prepared local produce.

Good to know

  • Price: Free
  • Address: Holkham Beach, Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 IRJ
  • Stay nearby: Holme Oak Hideaway | sleeps 2 + 2 dogs

Self-catering holiday cottages in Norfolk

We hope that you have enjoyed discovering date ideas in Norfolk inspired by your favourite movies and that they have helped inspire you to visit Norfolk. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat for two or a large escape perfect for bringing the whole family, Norfolk Cottages has a large and diverse portfolio of amazing properties, great for every type of traveller. 

If you are searching for a reliable company to let your property as a holiday home, Norfolk Cottages is a leading holiday letting agency with a range of properties from suburban homes and sea-view apartments to huge awe-inspiring stately homes and luxury mansions. Our team offers excellent customer service and a friendly approach for both our guests and cottage owners.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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