Is Norfolk a good place for a beach holiday?
Yes, the Norfolk coast, easily reachable from Norwich, is a popular destination for seaside holidays. It offers around 90 miles of diverse coastline, including sandy beaches, nature reserves, and traditional seaside towns, catering to families, couples, and nature lovers.
What kind of beaches can I expect near Norwich / on the Norfolk coast?
The Norfolk coast boasts a wide variety of beaches. You'll find vast sandy stretches perfect for sandcastles and walks (like Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea, Brancaster), traditional seaside resorts with piers and promenades (Cromer, Hunstanton, Great Yarmouth), pebble/shingle beaches great for exploring (Weybourne, Sheringham at high tide), and beaches backed by dunes and pine woods (Winterton-on-Sea, Holkham). Several beaches like Cromer, Sheringham, and West Runton hold Blue Flag awards for cleanliness and safety.
Can you actually swim in the sea in Norfolk? What's the water like?
Swimming is possible at many Norfolk beaches, but the North Sea water is typically cold, often only becoming comfortable from July onwards. Some beaches like Sea Palling (with its man-made reefs creating calmer bays) and Mundesley (at low tide) are considered particularly good for swimming or paddling. Always be aware of tides, especially the fast-incoming tide at places like Wells, and potential currents. Some beaches have lifeguard services during peak season.
How easy is it to get to the Norfolk coast beaches from Norwich?
Reaching the Norfolk coast from Norwich is relatively straightforward. Driving usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific beach. Train services run directly from Norwich to coastal towns like Cromer, Sheringham, West Runton, and Great Yarmouth. For beaches further west like Hunstanton or Wells-next-the-Sea, you might take a train to King's Lynn and then a connecting coastal bus service.
What types of accommodation are common near Norfolk beaches?
Self-catering holiday cottages are very popular along the Norfolk coast, with many agencies offering a wide range from cosy cottages to larger houses, often dog-friendly or family-oriented. Holiday parks with static caravans, lodges, or touring pitches are also common, some located very close to beaches like Pinewoods at Wells or Waxham Sands. You'll also find traditional B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels in the coastal towns like Cromer, Sheringham, and Hunstanton.
Which Norfolk beaches are best for families?
Many Norfolk beaches are great for families. Wells-next-the-Sea (with its beach huts and shallow 'Run' at low tide), Holkham (vast sands, nature reserve), Hunstanton ('Sunny Hunny' with shallow waters and traditional resort), Cromer (pier, sandy beach), Sheringham (sand/rockpools at low tide), and Sea Palling (calmer waters due to reefs) are popular choices. Look for sandy stretches, safe paddling areas, facilities like cafes and toilets, and seasonal lifeguard cover.
Are dogs allowed on Norfolk beaches?
Norfolk is very dog-friendly! Many beaches welcome dogs year-round, including popular spots like Old Hunstanton, Brancaster, Holkham, Winterton-on-Sea, and Horsey. However, some beaches have restrictions, especially during the main season (typically May to September) on central sections or near nesting bird areas (e.g., parts of Wells-next-the-Sea, Cromer, Sheringham, Sea Palling). Always check local signage for specific rules and zones.
Where's the best place to see seals on the Norfolk coast?
The best and most reliable places are Blakeney Point (accessible via boat trips from Morston Quay or Blakeney harbour) which hosts England's largest Grey seal colony, and Horsey Gap (viewable from designated dune paths, especially during winter pupping season). Seals are also frequently seen at Winterton-on-Sea, Waxham, Sea Palling, and sometimes basking on sandbanks near Hunstanton or Scroby Sands (near Great Yarmouth, requires a boat trip).
When is the best time to see seal pups?
It depends on the species. Grey seal pups are born between November and late January/early February, making Horsey Gap and Blakeney Point prime viewing spots during winter (viewing at Horsey is from designated areas to protect the colony). Common seal pups are born between June and August, and can often be seen on boat trips to Blakeney Point or sometimes near Hunstanton during the summer.
Are there any quiet or less crowded beaches in Norfolk?
Yes, if you want to escape the crowds, try beaches like Horsey Gap (outside pupping season), Waxham, Cart Gap, Holme-next-the-Sea, or Trimingham. Stiffkey requires a walk through saltmarshes to reach the sand but is rich in wildlife. Weybourne is quieter, mainly shingle and popular with anglers, but not suitable for swimming. Even popular beaches like Brancaster or Holkham can feel vast and offer space if you walk away from the main access points.
What are the beach huts like at Wells-next-the-Sea? Can I rent one?
The colourful beach huts lining Wells beach are iconic. Most are privately owned, but a limited number are available for daily or weekly hire through companies like Pinewoods Holiday Park or private owners/agencies. They provide a convenient base with seating (like deckchairs), shelter, and often basic equipment, but typically don't have electricity or water. They offer great views and a classic seaside experience but cannot be used for overnight stays. Prices vary, starting around £65 per day.
Is it better to go to Cromer or Sheringham beach?
Both Cromer and Sheringham are traditional North Norfolk seaside towns with Blue Flag beaches, but offer slightly different vibes. Cromer has its famous Victorian Pier with a theatre, is known for Cromer crabs, and has a sandy, flat beach good for crabbing. Sheringham has a mix of sand and pebbles (more sand at low tide with rock pools), a heritage steam railway nearby, and some locals might argue its beach is better than Cromer's. Both have promenades and amenities. Cromer might feel slightly larger or busier.
What are some must-try local experiences at Norfolk beaches?
Trying fresh Cromer crab is a must – look for crab sandwiches or salads in cafes, especially in Cromer itself. Crabbing (or 'gillying') off the quay at Wells-next-the-Sea or Cromer Pier is a classic family activity. Enjoying traditional fish and chips on the seafront is popular everywhere. Spotting seals at Horsey or Blakeney is a unique wildlife experience. Foraging for samphire on the saltmarshes (like near Stiffkey) is possible with care. Watching the sunset over the sea at west-facing beaches like Hunstanton or Heacham is also special.
Are Norfolk beaches accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Accessibility varies. Some beaches like Cromer, Sheringham, and West Runton have Blue Flag status, which often includes sloped paved access from the promenade. Wells-next-the-Sea has boardwalks through the pinewoods leading towards the beach, and accessible facilities near the main car park/cafe. Hunstanton has a promenade. However, accessing the sand itself, especially soft sand or shingle, can still be challenging. It's best to check specific beach information or access guides beforehand. Some holiday parks near beaches also mention accessibility limitations.
What's the difference between Hunstanton and Old Hunstanton beach?
Hunstanton (main resort, sometimes called 'Sunny Hunny') features the famous striped cliffs, has more traditional seaside amusements and amenities along the promenade, and the beach by the town can be more pebbly, especially at high tide. Old Hunstanton, just to the north, offers a wider, sandier beach backed by dunes and beach huts. It's generally quieter, more natural-feeling, and very popular for dog walking year-round and kite-surfing. Both face west, offering good sunset views.
