Merrivale Model Village: A Miniature English Countryside by the Sea
Explore over an acre of enchanting miniature English countryside with handcrafted models, garden railway, and family fun on Great Yarmouth’s seafront.
Merrivale Model Village in Great Yarmouth is a charming miniature world spanning over an acre, featuring more than 350 handcrafted models that depict a typical English countryside. Highlights include a bustling town center, a village inn, a farm, a travelling fair, a sports stadium, a zoo, and a castle, all set within beautifully landscaped gardens with streams, waterfalls, and a koi carp pond. Visitors can enjoy a garden railway with 350 meters of track, interactive model features, mini-golf, and an old penny arcade, making it a beloved family attraction along the seafront.
A brief summary to Merrivale Model Village
- Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3JG, GB
- +441493842097
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Wednesday evening in summer to experience the magical illuminations that light up the village.
- Take advantage of the included mini-golf course and old penny arcade for extra family fun.
- Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the models, gardens, and interactive features.
- Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the detailed models and scenic gardens.
- Note that paths are narrow; single buggies and wheelchairs have access, but double buggies may struggle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services from Great Yarmouth town center to Marine Parade run frequently, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Buses operate daily but check schedules for evening and seasonal variations.
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Train and Taxi
From Great Yarmouth railway station, about 2 miles away, a taxi ride to Merrivale Model Village takes roughly 7-10 minutes and costs approximately £8-£12. Train services connect Great Yarmouth with Norwich and other regional hubs.
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Car
Driving to Merrivale Model Village is straightforward via the A12 to Great Yarmouth. Parking is available nearby but can be limited during peak season. Expect to pay typical seafront parking fees of £3-£6 for a day.
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Walking
If staying near the seafront, walking to Merrivale Model Village along Marine Parade is pleasant and accessible, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. Paths are paved but can be narrow in places.
Merrivale Model Village location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Merrivale Model Village
A Captivating Miniature English Countryside
Merrivale Model Village offers visitors a delightful glimpse into a miniature English countryside, meticulously crafted over more than one acre of award-winning landscaped gardens. The village is home to over 350 handcrafted models, including quaint cottages, a bustling town center, a perfectly kept village inn, a farm, a travelling fair, a sports stadium, a zoo, a holiday park, a country club, and a castle. These detailed scenes capture the charm and character of rural and small-town England, enhanced by streams, waterfalls, and a central koi carp pond that adds natural beauty to the setting.The Enchanting Garden Railway Experience
One of Merrivale’s standout features is its garden railway, which has been a beloved part of the attraction for over 40 years. This miniature railway boasts approximately 350 meters of 45mm G gauge track winding throughout the gardens, with 28 different types and styles of locomotives, trams, novelty vehicles, and rolling stock. The trains add dynamic movement and an interactive element, captivating visitors of all ages and offering a unique train-spotting experience during every visit.Interactive Fun and Nostalgia
Merrivale Model Village is designed to be engaging and fun for families. Many models include interactive buttons that trigger sounds and movements, delighting children and adults alike. The old penny arcade provides a nostalgic experience with vintage coin-operated machines, while the included mini-golf course offers lighthearted competition. Visitors can also feed the koi carp in the pond, adding a sensory and participatory dimension to the visit.Rich History and Recent Revitalization
Founded in 1961 by the Dobbins family, Merrivale Model Village has a rich history as one of Great Yarmouth’s cherished attractions. Ownership has changed hands several times, with significant refurbishments and expansions, including the installation of a new LGB garden railway in 2005. The current owners continue to invest in the village, adding fresh displays and maintaining the models to keep the experience vibrant and appealing for new generations.Seasonal Illuminations and Special Events
During the summer months, Merrivale hosts evening illuminations on Wednesdays, transforming the village into a magical, glowing spectacle. This event adds a unique atmosphere to the miniature scenes, making it a special occasion for visitors. The village also occasionally hosts fireworks and other family-friendly events, enhancing its role as a lively community attraction.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The village offers accessible paths suitable for single buggies and wheelchairs, though double buggies may find some paths too narrow. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and nearby amenities include restrooms, a tea room with gluten-free and allergy-friendly options, and seating areas throughout the gardens. The location on Marine Parade places it conveniently along Great Yarmouth’s seafront, next to other popular attractions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
War Memorial
0.9 km
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Pudding tower
1.3 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
Potter Heigham bridge
16.2 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
TourNorfolk
23.6 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Barton House Railway
25.2 km
Discover the magic of miniature railways at Barton House Railway, a charming museum and attraction in Wroxham, Norwich, perfect for families and railway enthusiasts.
Hoveton Hall Estate
25.3 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Hoveton Hall Estate, a serene tourist attraction in Norfolk featuring exquisite gardens and rich history.
Wroxham Bridge
25.5 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Broads Tours
25.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Norfolk Broads with Broads Tours – your gateway to unforgettable aquatic adventures.
Faircraft Loynes
25.5 km
Discover the beauty of the Broads with Faircraft Loynes, your premier boat tour agency and rental service in Wroxham, offering unforgettable waterway experiences.
Wroxham Miniature Worlds
25.6 km
Explore the enchanting world of Wroxham Miniature Worlds, where intricate models and engaging exhibits create a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Wroxham Barns
26.5 km
Experience the charm of Wroxham Barns, where shopping, dining, and family fun come together in the heart of Norfolk's beautiful countryside.
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
27.6 km
Explore the breathtaking East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden, a hidden gem in Norfolk, filled with stunning flora, serene landscapes, and tranquil charm.
Whitlingham Country Park
27.6 km
Explore Whitlingham Country Park: a tranquil retreat with picturesque trails, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities near Norwich.
Happisburgh Owls
28.0 km
Explore the fascinating world of owls at Happisburgh Owls, a unique tourist attraction on the stunning Norfolk coast, perfect for families and wildlife lovers.
Happisburgh Lighthouse
28.1 km
Discover Happisburgh Lighthouse, a historic maritime beacon offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Norfolk's coastal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
0.1 km
Step into a topsy-turvy world where ceilings become floors and fun defies gravity at Great Yarmouth’s unique Upside Down House.
Winter Gardens
0.1 km
Historic Victorian Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, undergoing a major restoration to become a sustainable seaside cultural landmark by 2028.
Learners’ Driving School (Kids’ coin-operated cars)
0.1 km
Where young drivers take the wheel in a safe, fun seaside setting.
Pleasure Beach Gardens
0.1 km
Free seaside fun with quirky attractions, family rides, and award-winning tearooms—a relaxed alternative to the main park.
Pleasure Beach Mining Company
0.1 km
Discover hidden treasures and family fun at the interactive Pleasure Beach Mining Company in Great Yarmouth’s charming Pleasure Beach Gardens.
Grand Prix
0.1 km
Family-friendly seaside fun with mini golf, kids’ driving tracks, and unique attractions in a relaxed garden setting by Great Yarmouth’s coast.
SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
0.2 km
Dive into the vibrant marine world of SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth, where sharks, penguins, and interactive exhibits await on the Norfolk coast.
Great Yarmouth South Beach
0.4 km
A classic sandy beach in Great Yarmouth offering family fun, seaside views, and easy access to Pleasure Beach and the new outer harbour.
4D Cinema
0.4 km
Dive into an immersive 4D cinematic adventure blending thrilling visuals with sensory effects at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach.
Medieval Town Wall
0.4 km
Walk the mile-long remains of one of England’s longest medieval town walls, where flint towers and ancient defences tell the story of a powerful fishing port.
Medieval Town Wall Open Space
0.5 km
Explore one of England’s longest medieval town walls, a mile of historic fortifications nestled in tranquil parkland at Great Yarmouth.
Hippodrome Circus
0.5 km
Britain’s only surviving total circus building, the Hippodrome Circus dazzles with historic charm and spectacular seaside performances.
Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life
0.5 km
Explore Great Yarmouth’s maritime heritage in a beautifully restored Victorian herring curing works, with immersive exhibits and interactive experiences.
The South East Tower
0.5 km
Stay in Great Yarmouth’s medieval South East Tower—an iconic historic fortress turned unique holiday retreat with original features and sea views.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
0.5 km
Historic seaside amusement park with thrilling rides, family fun, and classic British beachside charm on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile.
Essential places to dine
HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
0.3 km
Classic British fish restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending tradition with modern flavors in a friendly seaside setting.
Zaks Yankee Traveller
0.8 km
Experience vibrant American dining with huge portions, diverse vegan options, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Great Yarmouth Seafront Beefeater
0.9 km
Family-friendly Beefeater on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile serving hearty grills and British classics with beach views.
Metropole Restaurant
0.9 km
Classic British comfort food served with friendly warmth on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Ocean Spray
0.9 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with stunning sea views on Great Yarmouth’s iconic Marine Parade.
JAN Restaurant
0.9 km
Award-winning fine dining in an intimate art deco setting overlooking Great Yarmouth’s iconic seafront.
Othello
0.9 km
A cozy Mediterranean and seafood restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending vibrant flavors with warm hospitality.
Chico's Restaurant
1.0 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with warm hospitality on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant seafront.
Charcoal Grill
1.0 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth steakhouse serving hearty, fresh dishes with warm hospitality on the scenic Marine Parade.
Quayside Plaza
1.0 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with charming waterfront views and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s South Quay.
The Arches
1.0 km
A family-friendly British restaurant in Great Yarmouth serving hearty traditional dishes in a casual, welcoming setting.
Charlie's Tapas Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas with diverse vegetarian and vegan options in a warm, welcoming setting at Charlie's Tapas in Great Yarmouth.
Gilfreds Restaurant
1.1 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth gem serving authentic English home-cooked meals and hearty Sunday carveries in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Alexandra Restaurant
1.1 km
A warm, family-run restaurant in Great Yarmouth serving traditional English and Mediterranean homemade dishes with attentive service.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
1.1 km
A cozy, award-winning Italian gem in Great Yarmouth serving fresh, homemade dishes with warm, attentive service and inclusive menus.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Emporium
0.1 km
Discover unique maritime-inspired gifts and authentic local crafts at Great Yarmouth’s charming Gift Emporium by Wellington Pier.
Aurora Gift Store
0.4 km
Discover charming gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Great Yarmouth at Aurora Gift Store, your local stop for unique keepsakes.
Life's A Beach
0.5 km
Charming seaside gift shop on Marine Parade offering beach-themed souvenirs and a taste of Great Yarmouth’s coastal spirit.
The Loft Emporium
0.8 km
Discover unique treasures and hidden gems at The Loft Emporium, Great Yarmouth’s charming shopping centre for eclectic finds.
Crown Stores
0.8 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Great Yarmouth, open daily with a wide range of essentials and long hours for your convenience.
Picnic Patch
0.9 km
Discover timeless retro fashion and unique vintage treasures at Picnic Patch, Great Yarmouth’s charming vintage clothing boutique.
Mermaid Quay
1.0 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s historic seaside town.
Ferailles Shop - (Knot Just A Furniture Shop!) - Great Yarmouth
1.0 km
Discover Ferailles Shop in Great Yarmouth – a treasure trove of antiques, art, and unique fashion accessories that tell timeless stories.
Grasshopper
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Grasshopper, Great Yarmouth’s charming gift shop on King Street.
Handmade GIFTS AND CRAFTS From Bali
1.0 km
Discover authentic Balinese handmade crafts and unique gifts that bring vibrant artistry from Bali to Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road.
Steve's 'n' Mix
1.0 km
Traditional British sweet shop preserving seaside nostalgia on Great Yarmouth's Regent Road.
Vogue
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts, beach essentials, and collectibles at Vogue, a vibrant and welcoming shop in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road.
Martyns Walk Round Store
1.0 km
A quirky Great Yarmouth gift shop with a gothic and fantasy twist, perfect for unique alternative gifts and spooky collectibles.
Cottage Jewels
1.0 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery and unique gifts at Cottage Jewels, a charming boutique in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road.
Branded Collectibles
1.0 km
Discover a vast world of licensed collectibles and rare memorabilia at Branded Collectibles, Great Yarmouth’s ultimate treasure trove for enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alexandra Freehouse
0.3 km
A lively family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Red Herring
0.4 km
A cozy, traditional Great Yarmouth pub offering quality ales, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Marine
0.4 km
A lively beachfront pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth, blending traditional charm with vibrant entertainment and family-friendly dining.
The Landmark
0.7 km
A lively seafront pub with family-friendly play area, freshly grilled meals, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
The Blue Oyster
0.8 km
A lively Great Yarmouth bar blending expertly crafted cocktails, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a vibrant social setting.
Merlin’s Sports Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant sports bar in Great Yarmouth offering live games, pool, snooker, and a lively social scene with sea views and great drinks.
The Rumbold Arms
0.8 km
A friendly, family-oriented pub in Great Yarmouth known for hearty home-cooked meals, lively community spirit, and a spacious garden with play area.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
0.8 km
A vibrant rock-themed pub in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and extended late-night hours in the heart of town.
The Empire
0.9 km
A vibrant Great Yarmouth landmark blending live music, street food, craft beer, and community spirit on the iconic Marine Parade.
In The Mix
0.9 km
Chic cocktail bar and dessert haven on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending stylish vibes with expertly crafted drinks and sweet treats.
The Great Eastern Party Bar
1.0 km
A lively Great Yarmouth hotspot blending live music, karaoke, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out in a vibrant social setting.
Uptown Bar
1.0 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere and good ales in a casual, welcoming setting.
Peggotys Lounge
1.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Peggotys Lounge, Great Yarmouth’s lively pub and restaurant hotspot.
Prince Regent
1.0 km
Traditional pub with lively live music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere near Great Yarmouth’s seafront and town centre.
Troll Cart Wetherspoons Great Yarmouth
1.1 km
Lively Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth offering affordable British fare, comfy rooms, and a friendly atmosphere near the seafront.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Buddha Club
0.6 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
0.6 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Fallen Angels
1.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
1.7 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
The Bermuda Club
10.7 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Loft Nightclub
29.4 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Popworld - Norwich
29.5 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Mojo's
29.5 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Fluke
29.5 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mantra
29.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
29.6 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
29.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
St Edmund's Hall
30.3 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club
30.5 km
Experience the local social scene at Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club, where community spirit and friendly faces await.
Southwold Cricket Club
30.5 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
