Easter at Pensthorpe and Gressenhall Farm

Glorious weather boosted visitor numbers at two of Norfolk's outdoor attractions today.

Sunshine and soaring temperatures have seen the tourist industry off to a flying start this year, with thousands of holidaymakers enjoying the region's sites, beaches and countryside over the Bank Holiday.

Families were encouraged to get closer to nature during a fun and informative activity day at Pensthorpe Nature Reserve, near Fakenham.

Children were able to follow a special 'egg-travaganza' trail and learn all about the wildlife that calls Pensthorpe home during the spring, including bouncing lambs and fluffy chicks.

There were also Easter-themed quizzes, games and an egg and spoon race on top of the usual hands-on activities.

Commercial manager, Mark Noble, said the warm weather had meant spring sprung early this year.

'We're buzzing,' he added. 'We have had brilliant attendance and it's probably the best Easter we have had in a long, long time.'

A colourful Easter fair at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, near Dereham, saw children make their own bonnets and show them off in a traditional Easter parade.

Visitors were spoiled for choice with a wide selection of activities including traditional fairground rides, a circus skills workshop, stories, re-enactments and music from Dereham Brass Band to keep them entertained.

Down on the farm, there was a chance to see the iconic Suffolk Punch horses at work in the fields, plus plenty of opportunities to meet the newest arrivals.

Duty manager Rose Sheen said: 'We've had lots of visitors and it's had a circus feel to it. There's been a bit of a chill in the breeze, so it may have kept people from the coast and sent them inland.'

The museum has also holding May Day fun and festivities from 10am to 5pm on Sunday.