Discover the Best Norfolk Seaside Towns: 10 Must-Visit Locations
Norfolk’s serene and vibrant coastline offers an array of choices for those seeking a quaint seaside retreat. This county’s aesthetic beauty is enhanced by its stunning coastal towns, each with distinct characteristics and charm. Whether you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of Great Yarmouth’s bustling beaches and promenade or the calming ambience at Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk has something to suit everyone’s preferences. So enjoy embarking on this journey with ABC Taxis and exploring the hidden gems concealed within this lovely coast. For your upcoming travels, consider including these 10 charming Norfolk seaside towns on your itinerary.
Blakeney
Best For: Bird Watching, Sailing
Nestled on the enchanting North Norfolk Coast lies Blakeney – a captivating holiday location renowned for its tranquil ambience and awe-inspiring scenery. Attracting visitors from all over due to its incredible wildlife diversity and strong sailing culture cultivated through centuries of existence as a thriving port district. Situated alongside the celebrated Blakeney National Nature Reserve home to diverse avifauna populations provide unforgettable memories filled with stunning views and wildlife! Another attribute defining this location’s beauty is the delightful coastline considered an area of outstanding natural beauty where sailing enthusiasts revel in exhilarating experiences. Traditional Flint cottages, pubs and galleries line the streets of the village, welcoming visitors to explore its charming ambience.
Where to Stay: Blakeney Hotel is a luxurious 4-star hotel, situated in a prime location overlooking the harbour. It features 60 stylish rooms and suites, a spa, a restaurant and a bar. For those looking for a more intimate experience, The Moorings B&B offers comfortable accommodation in a charming Georgian house.
Burnham Overy Staithe
Best For: Walking, Wildlife Watching
Located on the North Norfolk coast, Burnham Overy Staithe is a quaint village that boasts vast salt marshes and tidal creeks which are home to a plethora of wildlife such as marsh harriers, avocets, oystercatchers, and curlews. Walking enthusiasts can opt to take the Norfolk Coast Path that cuts through the village while lovers of nature can visit the nearby Holkham National Nature Reserve. Additionally, Burnham Overy Staithe is known for its thriving sailing scene with a deep-water channel that leads straight into the sea.
Where to Stay: The Hero is a historic coaching inn, located in the heart of Burnham Overy Staithe. It features stylish rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a cosy log fire. For those looking for a self-catering option, Burnham Overy Staithe Cottage is a charming holiday cottage that sleeps four and is located just a short walk from the harbour.
Cley Next The Sea:
Best For: Bird Watching, Walking
Nestled on the North Norfolk coast, one can find the stunningly beautiful village of Cley Next The Sea. Admired for its rich wildlife and picturesque landscapes, this charming location marks the edge of Cley marshes. Another designated area of outstanding natural beauty nestled on the Norfolk coastline, it is no wonder that this area has become a popular site for birdwatching enthusiasts. For those seeking peace and tranquillity, visitors can explore the Norfolk Coast Path which meanders through the village while offering breathtaking views of the coastline. This holds much historical significance dating back to medieval times when it served as a bustling port for exporting wool.
Where to Stay: The George Hotel is a charming 17th-century coaching inn, located in the heart of Cley Next The Sea. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a cosy fireplace. For those looking for a self-catering option, Cley Windmill is a unique holiday cottage that sleeps up to ten people and offers stunning views of the coast.
Cromer
Best For: Pier, Beach, Fishing
Cromer, situated on the North Norfolk coast, is a charming tourist hub that boasts of its scenic beaches, notable pier, and scrumptious crab dishes. You can stroll around the town, soak up the sun rays at Cromer Beach or explore attractions such as Cromer Pier and RNLI Henry Blogg Museum. Additionally, anglers can indulge in fishing by renting boats from the harbour.
Where to Stay: The Red Lion Hotel is a historic coaching inn, located in the heart of Cromer. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced seafood, and a bar with a wide selection of real ales. For those looking for a self-catering option, Cromer Flint Cottage is a charming holiday cottage that sleeps four and is located just a short walk from the beach.
Great Yarmouth:
Best For: Family Fun, Beach
Great Yarmouth is nestled on the picturesque East Norfolk coastline and comprises a bustling seaside town renowned for its golden sands, thrilling amusement parks and classic seafront attractions. Experience endless fun at some fantastic outdoor pursuits such as swimming or soaking up some rays under the clear blue skies. Visitors can enjoy exciting landmarks such as the Pleasure Beach along with cultural hotspots like Time and Tide Museum and the Hippodrome Circus which makes every trip ultimately memorable. With a thriving seaport steeped in maritime heritage – Great Yarmouth has evolved into one of England’s most sought-after destinations today.
Where to Stay: The Imperial Hotel is a luxurious 4-star hotel, located on Great Yarmouth’s seafront. It features spacious rooms, a spa, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a sea view. For those looking for a self-catering option, The Beach House is a stylish holiday apartment that sleeps four and is located just a few minutes walk from the beach.
Happisburgh
Best For: Beach, Lighthouse
The East Norfolk village of Happisburgh boasts a stunning coastline, characterized by eroding cliffs made of red sandstone that reveal the area’s rich past. It holds the distinction of being home to the oldest evidence of human habitation in the UK, with items such as flint tools and mammoth and hyena remains found on its sandy beach. Visitors can also access its iconic lighthouse, a fascinating structure built in 1790 that offers open public tours during the summer months.
Where to Stay: The Hill House is a charming bed and breakfast, located in the heart of Happisburgh. It features comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a delicious breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients. For those looking for a self-catering option, The Barn is a spacious holiday cottage that sleeps up to six people and is located just a short walk from the beach.
Holkham
Best For: Beach, Nature Reserve
There are few locations more idyllic than Holkham; a coastal village situated along North Norfolk’s tranquil stretch of shoreline that promises its visitors both splendorous scenery and stately allure. Renowned for its extensive golden sands and calm azure waters, Holkham Beach has become synonymous with tranquillity and relaxation – drawing beach-goers from far and wide who seek respite from their daily stresses. Meanwhile, those who prefer communing with wildlife will find solace amidst the verdant expanse of forestation at Holkham’s reserves where deer roam freely through fields as hares frolic amongst wildflowers under the watchful eyes of swooping barn owls. Beyond these natural wonders awaits elegantly designed mansions such as Holkham Hall where perfection reigns supreme.
Where to Stay: The Victoria Inn is a traditional pub with rooms, located in the heart of Holkham. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a cosy log fire. For those looking for a self-catering option, The Lodge is a stylish holiday cottage that sleeps up to six people and is located just a short walk from the beach.
Mundesley
Best For: Beach, Golf
Mundesley lures visitors to its sandy beach, time-honoured beach huts and awe-inspiring cliff-top golf course. Sun-seekers can soak up some rays while taking a dip in the shallow waters alongside an array of shops and cafes lining the promenade. Situated amidst magnificent vistas of the coastline is Mundesley Golf Club where avid golfers can spend a round honing their skills. Besides being a popular tourist destination, the village holds sentimental value as it is home to Mundesley Lifeboat Station which has served humanity since 1826.
Where to Stay: The Manor Hotel is a charming hotel, located in the heart of Mundesley. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a selection of real ales. For those looking for a self-catering option, The Old Stables is a spacious holiday cottage that sleeps up to six people and is located just a short walk from the beach.
Sheringham
Best For: Beach, Steam Train
Nestled along the North Norfolk coast lies Sheringham, a vibrant seaside town that boasts a picturesque beach, historic railway and breathtaking coastal walks that keep visitors coming back for more. Venture into the clear blue waters of Sheringham Beach to indulge in swimming or bask under the warm sun’s soothing rays. Better yet, hop on board the North Norfolk Railway and relish one of England’s finest narrow-gauge steam train journeys from Sheringham to Holt. Dive into Sheringham Museum to learn about the town’s significant fishing industry history- a tribute to its rich maritime culture.
Where to Stay: The Two Lifeboats is a charming pub with rooms, located in the heart of Sheringham. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a selection of real ales. For those looking for a self-catering option, The Old Bakery is a cosy holiday cottage that sleeps up to four people and is located just a short walk from the beach.
Winterton On Sea
Best For: Beach, Wildlife
Experience the splendour of Winterton On Sea- a charming coastal village on the North Norfolk coastline featuring awe-inspiring views of wide golden sands, sand dunes dotted with grasses and other striking natural features teeming with life. Beach lovers can enjoy a plethora of activities including swimming in crystal-clear waters while exploring miles of virgin white sands that stretch as far as the eye can see, truly making it a paradise on earth. Make sure you pay a visit to witness a fascinating scene of grey seals taking their afternoon nap along the shore.
Where to Stay: The Fisherman’s Return is a traditional pub with rooms, located in the heart of Winterton On Sea. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with a selection of real ales. For those looking for a self-catering option, The Old Barn is a spacious holiday cottage that sleeps up to six people and is located just a short walk from the beach.
Unwind and enjoy all that Norfolk’s seaside towns have to offer – from historical sites dating back centuries to breathtaking natural landscapes alongside amazing family-friendly activities. Whatever your interests may be, there is an activity here for every traveller. Make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunity by planning ahead and booking one of our taxis via mobile app or phone! Are you a driver who takes pride in providing exceptional transportation services? Our team shares your passion and is always seeking new ways to deliver unforgettable experiences to our clients. Whether you’re helping tourists explore the city or getting a local family safely to their destination, we welcome driver partners of all experience levels to join our ranks.