Priory Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea
A peaceful, historic garden in the heart of Gorleston-on-Sea, perfect for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or a moment of calm by the sea.
Nestled in the seaside town of Gorleston-on-Sea, Priory Gardens is a peaceful, well-kept public garden left to the town by the Hill family. Laid out around the remains of a historic house, the gardens offer a quiet retreat with lawns, flowerbeds, and mature trees, ideal for a relaxed stroll, a picnic, or simply unwinding by the sea. Open daily, it’s a favourite local green space with easy access and a calm, welcoming atmosphere.
A brief summary to Priory Gardens
- Priory St, Great Yarmouth, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR31 6NG, GB
- +441493856100
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy the gardens at their quietest, especially on weekdays when local events aren’t taking place.
- Bring a light jacket or windbreaker, as the sea breeze can make the gardens feel cooler even on sunny days.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Gorleston’s seafront promenade and a stop at one of the nearby cafes or pubs for a full seaside experience.
- Keep dogs on a lead and bring a bag for waste, as the gardens are a shared space and cleanliness is appreciated by all visitors.
- Check local event listings; the gardens sometimes host seasonal fairs, flower shows, or community gatherings that add extra charm to a visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Gorleston town centre
From Gorleston High Street, follow signs towards the seafront and Priory Street; the walk takes about 10–15 minutes along flat, paved routes with clear footpaths and crossings.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes serving Gorleston-on-Sea stop within a 5–10 minute walk of the gardens; check current timetables for stops near Church Road or the seafront promenade.
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By car from Great Yarmouth
From Great Yarmouth town centre, drive along the A1064 towards Gorleston; allow 10–15 minutes, with on-street parking available nearby on Priory Street and surrounding residential roads.
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By bicycle
Cycle along the seafront promenade or through Gorleston’s residential streets; there are no dedicated cycle racks in the gardens, but secure parking is possible nearby on Priory Street.
Priory Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Priory Gardens
A Gift of Green to the Town
Situated in the coastal suburb of Gorleston-on-Sea, Priory Gardens is a cherished public green space created from the grounds of a former private estate. The gardens were bequeathed to the town by the Hill family, who once lived in the house that stood here. Though the main house was later demolished, one surviving building remains, lending the site its name and a quiet sense of history. Today, the space is maintained as a formal garden with lawns, flowerbeds, and mature trees, offering a peaceful contrast to the nearby seafront and town centre.Design and Atmosphere
The layout is simple and inviting, with wide paths winding through neatly planted borders and open grassy areas. Flowerbeds are carefully tended, often featuring seasonal displays that add colour and fragrance throughout the year. Mature trees provide shade and a sense of enclosure, making the gardens feel like a secluded oasis despite their central location. Benches are scattered throughout, inviting visitors to sit, read, or simply enjoy the calm. The overall atmosphere is one of quiet dignity and understated beauty, perfect for a gentle walk or a moment of reflection.A Place for Relaxation and Community
Priory Gardens is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike seeking a tranquil break. It’s commonly used for quiet picnics, dog walking (on leads), and casual strolls. The central area is particularly pleasant, with open lawns and flowerbeds that make it a natural gathering place, especially during local events and seasonal celebrations. The proximity to the sea and the town means it’s easy to combine a visit here with a walk along the promenade or a stop in Gorleston’s shops and cafes, making it a versatile part of any day out in Great Yarmouth.Practical Details for Visitors
The gardens are open daily with generous hours, typically from early morning until mid-afternoon, and are free to enter. Access is straightforward, with entrances near Priory Street and Church Road, and the site is largely flat and well-surfaced, making it suitable for most visitors. Basic amenities such as benches and bins are provided, and the nearby town offers cafes, toilets, and other facilities. There are no formal attractions like a maze or play area, but the simple pleasure of a well-kept garden in a quiet corner of the town is what draws people back again and again.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
War Memorial
2.7 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Pudding tower
3.0 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
17.3 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
TourNorfolk
24.5 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Museum of the Broads
25.1 km
Explore the rich heritage and ecology of the Broads at the Museum of the Broads, where history meets nature in a captivating setting.
Barton House Railway
25.7 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
25.9 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Hoveton Hall Estate, a serene tourist attraction in Norfolk featuring exquisite gardens and rich history.
Wroxham Bridge
26.0 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Broads Tours
26.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Norfolk Broads with Broads Tours – your gateway to unforgettable aquatic adventures.
Faircraft Loynes
26.0 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
26.1 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
27.1 km
Experience the charm of Wroxham Barns, where shopping, dining, and family fun come together in the heart of Norfolk's beautiful countryside.
Whitlingham Country Park
27.3 km
Explore Whitlingham Country Park: a tranquil retreat with picturesque trails, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities near Norwich.
Under The Pier Show Southwold Pier
28.1 km
Experience the magic of nostalgia and seaside fun at Under The Pier Show in Southwold, where unique amusements await every visitor.
Southwold Pier
28.1 km
Discover the enchanting Southwold Pier, a charming seaside destination filled with fun, food, and stunning coastal views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nelson's Monument
0.8 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson in Great Yarmouth, offering historic insights and panoramic views from its 217-step ascent.
Gorleston-on-Sea Lighthouse
1.1 km
Historic 1887 red brick lighthouse guiding vessels at the mouth of the River Yare in charming Gorleston-on-Sea.
Gorleston
1.3 km
Historic fishing port turned beloved seaside resort with sandy beaches, Edwardian charm, and vibrant coastal leisure south of Great Yarmouth.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
1.4 km
Historic seaside amusement park with thrilling rides, family fun, and classic British beachside charm on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile.
4D Cinema
1.5 km
Dive into an immersive 4D cinematic adventure blending thrilling visuals with sensory effects at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach.
Great Yarmouth South Beach
1.6 km
A classic sandy beach in Great Yarmouth offering family fun, seaside views, and easy access to Pleasure Beach and the new outer harbour.
Pleasure Beach Mining Company
1.8 km
Discover hidden treasures and family fun at the interactive Pleasure Beach Mining Company in Great Yarmouth’s charming Pleasure Beach Gardens.
Pleasure Beach Gardens
1.8 km
Free seaside fun with quirky attractions, family rides, and award-winning tearooms—a relaxed alternative to the main park.
Grand Prix
1.8 km
Family-friendly seaside fun with mini golf, kids’ driving tracks, and unique attractions in a relaxed garden setting by Great Yarmouth’s coast.
Learners’ Driving School (Kids’ coin-operated cars)
1.8 km
Where young drivers take the wheel in a safe, fun seaside setting.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
1.8 km
Step into a topsy-turvy world where ceilings become floors and fun defies gravity at Great Yarmouth’s unique Upside Down House.
Gorleston Beach
1.9 km
A charming Victorian-era sandy beach near Great Yarmouth, perfect for families, surfers, and those seeking a peaceful traditional seaside escape.
Merrivale Model Village
1.9 km
Explore over an acre of enchanting miniature English countryside with handcrafted models, garden railway, and family fun on Great Yarmouth’s seafront.
Winter Gardens
2.0 km
Historic Victorian Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, undergoing a major restoration to become a sustainable seaside cultural landmark by 2028.
Medieval Town Wall Open Space
2.1 km
Explore one of England’s longest medieval town walls, a mile of historic fortifications nestled in tranquil parkland at Great Yarmouth.
Essential places to dine
Olive Garden
0.1 km
Experience authentic Greek and Cypriot cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a warm Mediterranean setting in Gorleston-on-Sea.
Great Yarmouth Seafront Beefeater
1.1 km
Family-friendly Beefeater on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile serving hearty grills and British classics with beach views.
Muse Restaurant
1.3 km
Elegant coastal dining with Art Deco charm, attentive service, and expertly crafted dishes in Gorleston-on-Sea.
Joker's Diner
1.6 km
Joker's Diner serves up hearty British breakfasts and comfort food with fresh ingredients and friendly service in Great Yarmouth.
HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
2.2 km
Classic British fish restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending tradition with modern flavors in a friendly seaside setting.
Zaks Yankee Traveller
2.5 km
Experience vibrant American dining with huge portions, diverse vegan options, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Quayside Plaza
2.6 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with charming waterfront views and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s South Quay.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
2.7 km
A cozy, award-winning Italian gem in Great Yarmouth serving fresh, homemade dishes with warm, attentive service and inclusive menus.
Metropole Restaurant
2.8 km
Classic British comfort food served with friendly warmth on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Alexandra Restaurant
2.8 km
A warm, family-run restaurant in Great Yarmouth serving traditional English and Mediterranean homemade dishes with attentive service.
Ocean Spray
2.8 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with stunning sea views on Great Yarmouth’s iconic Marine Parade.
JAN Restaurant
2.8 km
Award-winning fine dining in an intimate art deco setting overlooking Great Yarmouth’s iconic seafront.
Othello
2.8 km
A cozy Mediterranean and seafood restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending vibrant flavors with warm hospitality.
Chico's Restaurant
2.9 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with warm hospitality on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant seafront.
Charcoal Grill
2.9 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth steakhouse serving hearty, fresh dishes with warm hospitality on the scenic Marine Parade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
What Is Hip
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares at What Is Hip, a beloved retro clothing shop in the heart of Gorleston-on-Sea.
The Loft Emporium
1.2 km
Discover unique treasures and hidden gems at The Loft Emporium, Great Yarmouth’s charming shopping centre for eclectic finds.
Aurora Gift Store
1.7 km
Discover charming gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Great Yarmouth at Aurora Gift Store, your local stop for unique keepsakes.
Picnic Patch
1.9 km
Discover timeless retro fashion and unique vintage treasures at Picnic Patch, Great Yarmouth’s charming vintage clothing boutique.
Gift Emporium
2.0 km
Discover unique maritime-inspired gifts and authentic local crafts at Great Yarmouth’s charming Gift Emporium by Wellington Pier.
Life's A Beach
2.4 km
Charming seaside gift shop on Marine Parade offering beach-themed souvenirs and a taste of Great Yarmouth’s coastal spirit.
Ferailles Shop - (Knot Just A Furniture Shop!) - Great Yarmouth
2.6 km
Discover Ferailles Shop in Great Yarmouth – a treasure trove of antiques, art, and unique fashion accessories that tell timeless stories.
Mermaid Quay
2.7 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s historic seaside town.
Grasshopper
2.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Grasshopper, Great Yarmouth’s charming gift shop on King Street.
Crown Stores
2.7 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Great Yarmouth, open daily with a wide range of essentials and long hours for your convenience.
R&D Crafts
2.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry in the charming Victoria Arcade of Great Yarmouth.
Cauldron37
2.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Cauldron37, a cozy boutique in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Regent Street.
Craftmania
2.8 km
A welcoming craft shop in Great Yarmouth offering quality supplies, expert advice, and a vibrant creative community.
Martyns Walk Round Store
2.8 km
A quirky Great Yarmouth gift shop with a gothic and fantasy twist, perfect for unique alternative gifts and spooky collectibles.
Steve's 'n' Mix
2.8 km
Traditional British sweet shop preserving seaside nostalgia on Great Yarmouth's Regent Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The William Adams
0.2 km
A vibrant coastal pub honoring Gorleston’s lifesaving hero with great food, real ales, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Rumbold Arms
1.6 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.
The Red Herring
2.1 km
A cozy, traditional Great Yarmouth pub offering quality ales, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Alexandra Freehouse
2.2 km
A lively family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Marine
2.3 km
A lively beachfront pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth, blending traditional charm with vibrant entertainment and family-friendly dining.
The Blue Oyster
2.5 km
A lively Great Yarmouth bar blending expertly crafted cocktails, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a vibrant social setting.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
2.5 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 Landmark
2.6 km
A lively seafront pub with family-friendly play area, freshly grilled meals, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Uptown Bar
2.7 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere and good ales in a casual, welcoming setting.
Peggotys Lounge
2.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Peggotys Lounge, Great Yarmouth’s lively pub and restaurant hotspot.
Merlin’s Sports Bar
2.7 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 Empire
2.8 km
A vibrant Great Yarmouth landmark blending live music, street food, craft beer, and community spirit on the iconic Marine Parade.
The Great Eastern Party Bar
2.8 km
A lively Great Yarmouth hotspot blending live music, karaoke, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out in a vibrant social setting.
In The Mix
2.8 km
Chic cocktail bar and dessert haven on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending stylish vibes with expertly crafted drinks and sweet treats.
The Mariners
2.8 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth pub famed for its rich selection of cask ales, lively atmosphere, and authentic British charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
0.5 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Buddha Club
2.5 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
2.5 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Fallen Angels
3.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
The Bermuda Club
12.4 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
27.7 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
28.4 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 Cricket Club
28.6 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club
28.6 km
Experience the local social scene at Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club, where community spirit and friendly faces await.
Loft Nightclub
29.2 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
29.2 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
29.2 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mojo's
29.2 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Mantra
29.3 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
29.3 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
