North Norfolk

North Norfolk has so much to offer, with miles of beautiful beaches, seaside towns like Cromer and Sheringham, and market towns such as Aylsham. More information about these places can be found in our towns and villages section.

Wells-next-the-Sea has a quaint quayside, with many Georgian buildings and a variety of seaside shops and eateries. It has an excellent beach and a wooded area popular with birdwatchers. The world’s largest light railway runs between Wells and Little Walsingham. Little Walsingham is a town with many religious buildings and has an abbey which has been used by pilgrims for many centuries. Blakeney and Morston are real havens for bird life, and this section of the North Norfolk coast is visited by birdwatchers from all over the world. Blakeney Point is home to the common and grey seals, and trips can be taken daily from Morston Quay to observe them in their natural environment.

Cromer and Overstrand are very popular with holiday-makers because of their sandy beaches. At the top of Cromer cliffs there is a large green where you can park your car, have a picnic and fly your kite. A stroll along the promenade is great all year round, as is the hike up to the lighthouse, or fishing off the pier for the famous Cromer crab! During the summer months the pier’s pavilion has a seaside special show, and in August Cromer has a week-long carnival. Events include a firework display, a grand parade, and most years the world famous Red Arrow flying display team. It is a spectacular show and is the town’s busiest time of year.

The town of Holt is situated in the Glaven Valley, and during the summer months it is full of continental-style pubs and restaurants. At Christmas the town is lit up by thousands of white lights - a sight not to be missed. Holt wood is a very popular place with dog walkers and bird-watchers. It has many picnic tables and adventure areas and is a great spot to spend a few hours.

The coast around Sheringham and Weybourne is ideal for walking and cycling. Next to the village of Upper Sheringham is Sheringham Park. A National Trust owned property, the park is stunning in late May and early June when all the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. There are several signposted walks, from the short concreted route suitable for wheelchairs, to the considerably longer coastal and woodland walks.

Mundesley village has several tea-rooms, restaurants and pubs, and a variety of shops selling everyday provisions. The beach at the bottom of the cliffs is very popular with families, as when the tide is out there are lots of rock pools with interesting crustaceans. Near Mundesley is the market town of North Walsham, whose market cross was originally built in the 16th century.

Market towns are an essential part of North Norfolk character and the main market days are listed below: