The River Great Ouse flows through the historic town of King’s Lynn, which dates back to the 12th century. Grand merchant houses, art galleries, museums, and Henry Bell’s 1683 Custom House—all Grade I listed—make the town a history buff’s dream. In addition to the town’s original winding streets and alleys, which have been preserved, shoppers will find a mix of national and specialised retailers, as well as a number of pubs and restaurants. The West Norfolk coastline is only a short drive away, as is much of the surrounding Norfolk countryside, which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. For its sunsets and beaches, Hunstanton is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Norfolk. Several locations along the coast offer boat trips, and the Norfolk Coast Cycleway connects King’s Lynn with Cromer. It’s only a short drive away from Sandringham, the Queen’s country retreat, to visit the impressive Visitor Center.