These coastal walks in Norfolk show a tapestry of diverse landscapes, from windswept dunes to marshy estuaries, promising a coastal walk that transcends the ordinary and immerses you in the timeless allure of Norfolk’s seaside wonders.
Coastal Walks In Norfolk
The rugged charm of Norfolk’s coastline has invited adventurous souls to embark on a journey where the meeting of land and sea paints a picturesque canvas of natural beauty.
On a personal note, I have enjoyed many seaside trips and walks along the coast when visiting my parents who lived nearby and who also loved doing these coastal walks in Norfolk.
Firstly a top tip: If you want one of the best guidebooks for Norfolk then the British Bradt Travel Guides, Norfolk: Local, Characterful Guides to Britain’s Special Places is the best one to get.
Norfolk Coast Path: Cromer to Sheringham
The Cromer to Sheringham walk is a classic coastal trek along the Norfolk Coast Path, offering stunning views of the North Sea and the surrounding landscape. Here’s a brief guide to the Cromer to Sheringham walk:
Starting Point: Cromer
Cromer Pier: Begin your journey at Cromer Pier, an iconic structure with a rich history. Take a moment to enjoy the coastal scenery before setting off.
Cliffside Views: The path takes you along the cliffs, providing breathtaking views of the sea. Keep an eye out for seabirds soaring above.
Cromer Golf Course: You’ll pass by Cromer Golf Course, where the landscape opens up, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Midway Point: West Runton
West Runton Beach: As you approach West Runton, you’ll encounter a lovely sandy beach. Take a break, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Runton Woods: The path may lead you through Runton Woods, offering a change of scenery with the shade of trees and the sound of rustling leaves.
Final Stretch: Sheringham
Beeston Bump: This is a notable landmark on the route. Beeston Bump is a grassy hill providing stunning views of the coastline. A perfect spot for a picnic or to simply soak in the scenery.
Sheringham: The walk concludes in Sheringham, a charming coastal town. Explore Sheringham’s bustling seafront, visit local shops, or relax on the beach.
The Cromer to Sheringham walk is one of the best coastal walks in Norfolk that you can do.
Blakeney to Morston
The Blakeney to Morston walk is a delightful trek along the North Norfolk Coast, offering a mix of coastal beauty and nature. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
Starting Point: Blakeney
Quay and Harbour: Begin your walk at Blakeney Quay, a picturesque spot with boats bobbing in the water. Enjoy the quaint charm of this traditional coastal village.
Salt Marshes: The path takes you through scenic salt marshes, providing a unique ecosystem and a haven for birdwatchers. Keep your eyes peeled for wading birds and, if you’re lucky, seals in the distance.
Boardwalks and Pathways: The trail includes boardwalks over marshy areas and pathways along the coast, ensuring a varied and interesting walking experience.
Midway Point: Morston
Morston Quay: Reach Morston Quay, a charming spot with its unique character. You might see traditional Norfolk whelk boats and, during high tide, take a boat trip to see the seals at Blakeney Point.
Morston Hall: If you’re a foodie, Morston Hall, a renowned restaurant with a Michelin star, is worth a visit. It’s a lovely way to cap off your walk with a delicious meal.
If you want to see some wildlife, like seals, then this is one of the best coastal walks in Norfolk for that.
Wells-next-the-Sea to Holkham Beach
The Wells-next-the-Sea to Holkham Beach walk is a delightful coastal stroll along the Norfolk coast, offering a mix of sandy shores, pine woods, and stunning landscapes.
Starting Point: Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells Harbour: Begin your journey at Wells Harbour, a charming and bustling spot. Take a moment to appreciate the boats, the sea air, and the coastal charm.
Wells Beach: The walk takes you along Wells Beach, known for its wide stretch of golden sand and colourful beach huts. Enjoy the sound of the waves and the panoramic views of the North Sea.
Pinewoods: As you continue, you’ll enter the Holkham National Nature Reserve, characterized by beautiful pinewoods. The scent of pine in the air adds to the natural experience.
Midway Point: Holkham Gap
Holkham Gap: This is a stunning opening in the pinewoods that reveals the vastness of Holkham Beach. The landscape here is simply breathtaking, with dunes and the sea stretching out before you.
Holkham Beach: Walk along the expansive and pristine Holkham Beach. It’s famous for its wide-open spaces and beautiful vistas. If you’re a fan of nature and tranquillity, this is the place to be.
Brancaster to Burnham Overy Staithe
The Brancaster to Burnham Overy Staithe walk is a wonderful coastal trek along the Norfolk Coast Path, showcasing the beauty of the North Norfolk coastline.
Starting Point: Brancaster
Brancaster Beach: Begin your journey at Brancaster Beach, a vast expanse of golden sand. Take in the panoramic views of the sea and the distant sails of boats.
Scolt Head Island: You’ll walk along the coast with Scolt Head Island on your left. This nature reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, so keep an eye out for seabirds.
Burnham Deepdale: The path may take you through the charming village of Burnham Deepdale, known for its traditional Norfolk architecture.
Midway Point: Burnham Overy Staithe
Marshes and Creeks: The walk continues through salt marshes and tidal creeks. These areas are not only visually stunning but also vital for the local ecosystem.
Burnham Overy Staithe Harbour: Reach the picturesque Burnham Overy Staithe Harbour, a classic Norfolk coastal village. Watch the boats bobbing in the water and take in the serene atmosphere.
For walks through marshes, this is one of the best coastal walks in Norfolk to do.
Hunstanton to Thornham
The Hunstanton to Thornham walk is another delightful coastal trek along the Norfolk Coast Path, offering a mix of seaside views and unique landscapes.
Starting Point: Hunstanton
Hunstanton Cliffs: Begin your journey at Hunstanton, known for its stunning red and white striped cliffs. Take a moment to enjoy the views from the cliff tops before heading along the path.
Hunstanton Beach: Walk along Hunstanton Beach, with its golden sands and expansive shoreline. The sound of the waves and the fresh sea breeze make for a rejuvenating start to your walk.
Old Hunstanton: Pass through the charming Old Hunstanton with its traditional Norfolk architecture and perhaps stop for a snack or a coffee in one of the local cafes.
Midway Point: Holme-next-the-Sea
Holme Dunes: The path takes you through Holme Dunes, a nature reserve with a diverse range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for birdlife in this tranquil natural setting.
Thornham Marshes: Walk along Thornham Marshes, an area known for its salt marshes and tidal creeks. The landscape here is unique and provides a different perspective on coastal environments.
Final Stretch: Thornham
Thornham Harbour: Reach Thornham and explore Thornham Harbour. The small fishing port adds a touch of charm to your walk, and you can enjoy views of boats and the salt marshes.
Tips:
- Check tide times before setting off, especially if you plan to explore areas close to the sea.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially in the nature reserves.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on both sandy and marshy terrain.
Sea Palling to Happisburgh
The Sea Palling to Happisburgh walk is a picturesque coastal walk along the Norfolk Coast Path, offering a mix of sandy beaches, dunes, and iconic landmarks.
Starting Point: Sea Palling
Sea Palling Beach: Begin your walk on the sandy shores of Sea Palling Beach. Take a moment to appreciate the golden sands and the sound of the waves as you set out on your coastal adventure.
Sea Palling Sea Defences: Walk along the sea defences at Sea Palling, which were constructed to protect against coastal erosion. The unique stepped design adds an interesting architectural element to the landscape.
Happisburgh Lighthouse: As you approach Happisburgh, you’ll be treated to the iconic sight of Happisburgh Lighthouse. This red and white striped lighthouse is not only a functional navigation aid but also a picturesque landmark and one of the best landmarks of any of these coastal walks in Norfolk.
Midway Point: Happisburgh
Happisburgh Beach: Explore Happisburgh Beach and enjoy the views of the sea and cliffs. The contrast of the sandy beach against the rugged cliffs creates a stunning backdrop.
Happisburgh Cliffs: Walk along the cliffs of Happisburgh for panoramic views of the North Sea. It’s a great vantage point to take in the coastal beauty and perhaps spot passing ships on the horizon.
Great Yarmouth to Caister-on-Sea
The Great Yarmouth to Caister-on-Sea walk is a lovely coastal stroll along the Norfolk coastline, offering a mix of seaside charm and scenic views.
Starting Point: Great Yarmouth
Great Yarmouth Promenade: Begin your walk along the lively Great Yarmouth Promenade. Take in the vibrant atmosphere, with amusement arcades, cafes, and the iconic Pleasure Beach.
Golden Mile Beach: Walk along Golden Mile Beach, known for its expansive sandy shores. Enjoy the sound of the waves and perhaps dip your toes in the North Sea.
Marine Parade: Pass through Marine Parade, a bustling area with shops, attractions, and the Britannia Pier. It’s a great place to soak in the coastal atmosphere before heading towards Caister-on-Sea.
Midway Point: Caister-on-Sea
Caister Beach: As you approach Caister-on-Sea, explore Caister Beach. The beach is known for its sandy expanse and provides a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to the busier Great Yarmouth.
Caister-on-Sea Castle: Visit Caister-on-Sea Castle, a medieval fortress that adds a touch of history to your walk. Take a moment to explore the surroundings and imagine the castle’s rich past.
This walk combines the lively atmosphere of Great Yarmouth with the quieter serenity of Caister-on-Sea, providing a diverse coastal experience and one of the best coastal walks in Norfolk.
Sheringham to Weybourne
The Sheringham to Weybourne walk is a scenic coastal stroll offering breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding landscapes.
Starting Point: Sheringham
Sheringham Beach: Begin your walk at Sheringham Beach, a lovely sandy shore with colourful beach huts. Take a moment to enjoy the sea breeze and the sound of the waves as you set out on your coastal adventure.
Sheringham Promenade: Walk along Sheringham Promenade, which offers charming views of the sea and the town. You might encounter fishermen trying their luck on the shoreline.
Beeston Bump: The path may take you up Beeston Bump, a grassy hill that provides fantastic panoramic views of the North Sea and the surrounding coastal landscape.
Midway Point: Weybourne
Weybourne Beach: As you approach Weybourne, you’ll reach Weybourne Beach. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and perhaps take a break on the beach to soak in the surroundings.
Weybourne Village: Explore Weybourne Village, known for its traditional Norfolk architecture and peaceful setting. It’s a great place to wander and maybe stop for a bite to eat at a local cafe.
Cley next the Sea to Salthouse
The Cley next the Sea to Salthouse walk is a picturesque coastal trek along the Norfolk Coast Path, offering a mix of salt marshes, shingle beaches, and stunning views.
Starting Point: Cley next the Sea
Cley Beach: Begin your walk at Cley Beach, a shingle beach with expansive views of the sea. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquillity and the unique coastal landscape.
Cley Windmill: Pass by Cley Windmill, an iconic landmark in the area. The windmill adds a touch of charm to the coastal scenery and is a great spot for photos.
Cley Marshes Nature Reserve: Walk through Cley Marshes Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers. The reserve is known for its diverse birdlife and offers elevated paths with views of the marshes. If you enjoy birdwatching this is one of the best coastal walks in Norfolk to do.
Midway Point: Salthouse
Salthouse Beach: As you approach Salthouse, you’ll reach Salthouse Beach. The mix of shingle and marshland provides a unique setting, and you can enjoy views of the sea and the surrounding nature.
Salthouse Dun: Explore Salthouse Dun, a mound overlooking the marshes. It’s a great vantage point to take in the coastal beauty and spot birdlife.
Hopton-on-Sea to Gorleston-on-Sea
The Hopton-on-Sea to Gorleston-on-Sea walk offers a mix of sandy shores and vibrant seaside charm.
Starting Point: Hopton-on-Sea
Hopton Beach: Begin your walk at Hopton Beach, known for its golden sands and panoramic views of the North Sea. Take in the fresh sea breeze and the sound of the waves as you set off on your coastal adventure.
Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park: As you walk along the coast, you may pass by Pleasurewood Hills, a popular theme park. It adds a touch of excitement to the surroundings and is a notable landmark on the route.
Midway Point: Lowestoft South Beach
Lowestoft South Beach: Your walk may take you to Lowestoft South Beach, where you can enjoy the sandy shores and perhaps take a break to relax by the sea.
Final Stretch: Gorleston-on-Sea
Gorleston Pier: Reach Gorleston-on-Sea and explore the charming Gorleston Pier. It’s a great spot to enjoy the views of the beach and the sea, and you might find some local cafes or ice cream shops to treat yourself.
Cliff Hill: Take a stroll along Cliff Hill for elevated views of Gorleston Beach and the surrounding coastline. It’s a picturesque vantage point to capture the beauty of the area.
For more on Norfolk take a look at the 10 best seaside towns in Norfolk to visit.
Norfolk
These 10 coastal walks in Norfolk let you soak in the beauty of the area which is truly a stunning place to visit.
As mentioned at the beginning of the article, If you want one of the best guidebooks for Norfolk then the British Bradt Travel Guides, Norfolk: Local, Characterful Guides to Britain’s Special Places is the best one to get.
Enjoy your coastal walks in Norfolk!
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