With its bevvy of coastal towns, Norfolk’s coastline provides the perfect spot for visitors looking for an unforgettable exploration of coastal delights. With quaint seaside villages, sweeping sandy beaches and a wealth of natural beauty, the Norfolk coast is packed with hidden gems to captivate visitors old and new all year round. Here we explore Norfolk’s coastal towns and discover what makes each place a unique spot to visit during your stay here in beautiful Norfolk.
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Why Visit Norfolk Coastal Towns?
Norfolk’s coast is dotted with miles of pristine sandy beaches, perfect for strolling, beachcombing, or simply soaking up the peaceful seaside ambience. At Congham Hall, we’re dedicated to helping our guests discover all Norfolk has to offer, ensuring an unforgettable stay filled with exploration and relaxation.
8 Top Norfolk Coastal Towns Not to Miss
Wander the narrow streets, browse local shops, and sample the just-caught seafood these coastal towns in Norfolk are known for, offering a glimpse into the region’s traditional way of life. From the charming town of Wells-next-the-Sea to the historic wonder of Blakeney, our gorgeous corner of England boasts an array of coastal destinations that should top any traveller’s must-see list.
1. Hunstanton
As one of the most popular seaside destinations along the East Anglian coast, the charming Norfolk coastal town of Hunstanton offers a wealth of attractions that make it a must-visit for any visitor.
Hunstanton boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches perfect for relaxing, swimming, and taking in the stunning views. The town’s iconic striped cliffs, composed of vibrant red and white chalk, provide a dramatic natural backdrop that has become a signature of the Hunstanton landscape.
Visitors can wander the scenic coastal paths, explore the historic lighthouse, and browse the quaint shops and cafes that line the promenade, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich maritime heritage. With family-friendly activities such as the Sealife Sanctuary and olde worlde seaside amusements, Hunstanton delivers an unforgettable seaside experience that captures the very essence of the Norfolk coast.
2. Old Hunstanton
Just a short stroll north from its livelier neighbour lies Old Hunstanton, a tranquil village that feels worlds away from the traditional seaside bustle.
This picturesque Norfolk coastal town offers a more serene seaside experience, characterised by its unspoiled beach and traditional Norfolk flint cottages overlooking the sea. The expansive beach, backed by striking dunes and marram grass, provides a peaceful haven for walkers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking quiet contemplation.
Old Hunstanton’s famous beach huts add splashes of colour to the landscape, while the ancient St. Mary’s Church stands as a testament to the village’s rich history. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the renowned Hunstanton Golf Club, its challenging links course winding through the coastal landscape. We recommend Old Hunstanton to guests seeking an authentic Norfolk coastal experience, away from the crowds, where they can truly unwind and connect with the natural beauty of our coastline.
3. Cromer
Perched proudly on the North Norfolk coast, Cromer has retained all the elegance of its Victorian heyday while embracing modern coastal charm.
The town is famous for its historic pier – the last remaining traditional pier in the UK with a full theatre program – which stretches gracefully into the North Sea and hosts the famous Pavilion Theatre, home to Britain’s only remaining end-of-pier show. Cromer is synonymous with its sweet, tender crabs, caught daily by local fishermen whose boats dot the shoreline, making the town’s crab sandwiches and dressed crabs a must-try delicacy for any visitor.
The impressive Victorian architecture, including the Hotel de Paris and the towering Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, tells stories of the town’s grand past, while the wide, sandy beach provides the perfect setting for family adventures. For activity seekers, the Norfolk Coast Path offers stunning clifftop walks, while the town centre bustles with independent shops, traditional pubs, and charming cafes. We often recommend Cromer to our guests seeking a perfect blend of traditional seaside atmosphere, rich heritage, and authentic coastal culture.
4. Great Yarmouth
Great Yarmouth embodies the quintessential British seaside experience with its vibrant atmosphere and rich entertainment heritage.
This Norfolk coastal town’s famous Golden Mile stretches alongside pristine sandy beaches, offering an array of traditional seaside attractions from amusement arcades to the historic Pleasure Beach theme park.
History buffs will appreciate the town’s medieval town wall, one of the best-preserved in England, while the Time and Tide Museum provides fascinating insights into the area’s maritime heritage. The bustling market and variety of seafront restaurants serve up everything from fresh local seafood to classic fish and chips. For our guests seeking a lively coastal experience filled with family entertainment, Great Yarmouth provides the perfect blend of seaside charm and modern attractions.
5. Holkham
Holkham stands as one of Norfolk’s most spectacular coastal locations, dominated by its vast expanse of unspoiled beach and pine woods.
The breathtaking Holkham Beach, with its endless golden sand and big skies, has earned its reputation as one of Britain’s most beautiful beaches. The magnificent Holkham Hall and Estate add a touch of grandeur to your visit to this Norfolk coastal town, while the National Nature Reserve offers visitors the chance to spot diverse wildlife in its unique ecosystem of salt marshes, sand dunes, and pine woodland. For guests seeking tranquillity and natural beauty, Holkham represents the perfect escape into Norfolk’s wild coastal landscape.
6. Wells-Next-the-Sea
From watching fishing boats navigate the harbour to enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants, Wells-next-the-Sea offers our guests a genuine Norfolk coastal experience. Wells-next-the-Sea captures the heart with its perfect blend of working harbour charm and seaside appeal.
The town’s iconic beach huts, perched on stilts and painted in cheerful colours, line the pine-fringed beach, creating one of Norfolk’s most photographed scenes. The bustling quay offers visitors the chance to try crabbing (a beloved local pastime), while the narrow gauge railway provides a delightful journey from town to beach. The high street maintains an authentic coastal character with its collection of independent shops, galleries, and eateries.
7. Sheringham
Sheringham charms visitors with its proud fishing heritage and traditional seaside atmosphere.
This coastal town has a Blue Flag beach, which provides the perfect setting for seaside adventures, while the North Norfolk Railway (the “Poppy Line”) offers nostalgic steam train journeys through stunning coastal countryside.
The town centre buzzes with independent shops, cafes, and twice-weekly markets, maintaining its traditional character. The Sheringham Museum at The Mo tells the fascinating story of the town’s lifeboat service and fishing industry, while the surrounding cliffs offer spectacular walking opportunities along the Norfolk Coast Path. Sheringham is perfect for anyone seeking an authentic Norfolk coastal town experience rich in both heritage and natural beauty.
8. Mundesley
Mundesley represents coastal Norfolk at its most peaceful and unspoiled. This charming village boasts one of Norfolk’s finest Blue Flag beaches, with its pristine golden sands stretching for miles and colourful beach huts adding a seaside touch from a bygone age.
The shallow waters and lifeguard presence in summer make it particularly appealing for families, while the quiet promenade and clifftop gardens offer peaceful spots for relaxation and coastal views.
Maritime history enthusiasts will appreciate the Maritime Museum, housed in what was once the coastguard’s lookout tower. Mundesley provides the perfect combination of coastal beauty and village charm, away from the larger resort crowds.
Source: visiteastofengland.com
Hidden Gems Along the Norfolk Coast
Norfolk’s coastline is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by those who venture beyond the well-trodden paths. Beyond the famous spots like Cromer or Great Yarmouth, Norfolk unveils a tapestry of serene beaches, charming villages, and wildlife havens that feel worlds away from the bustle of everyday life. The coastline’s secret stretches, such as the shingle-lined shores of Weybourne or the fossil-rich cliffs of West Runton, reveal a blend of tranquillity and history, making Norfolk a haven for explorers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Book Your Perfect Stay & Explore Norfolk’s Coastal Towns
There are so many amazing things to see and do in Norfolk. If you’d like to visit our beautiful corner of the world stay with us here at Congham Hall where peace and comfort are guaranteed. We have 31 individually designed bedrooms, suites and cabins, named after the herbs, fruits, and flowers that bloom in our gardens. A warm welcome awaits, so get in touch today and let us help you find your perfect getaway.
