Where to Start the Norfolk Coast Path
The Norfolk Coast Path begins at Hunstanton on the north-west coast of Norfolk. From here, the route follows the shoreline east toward Hopton-on-Sea, linking beaches, dunes, saltmarsh, and coastal towns along the edge of The Wash.
Hunstanton
Hunstanton marks the official western start, with the route beginning along the seafront where promenade and shoreline meet.
There’s no single formal trailhead. The path starts along the coast, guided by waymarking and the line of the shoreline.
At the start point you’ll find:
- Open access to the seafront and promenade
- Clear Norfolk Coast Path signage
- Views across The Wash
- Cafés, shops, and accommodation
From the outset, the route is open and exposed, following the coastline in a steady line.
Nearest Train Station: King’s Lynn
The nearest rail access point is King’s Lynn, located inland from Hunstanton.
King’s Lynn provides direct connections to London King’s Cross via Great Northern, forming the main rail gateway for walkers starting the route from the west.
Getting to Hunstanton
From King’s Lynn, the coast is reached by:
Bus
Regular services connect King’s Lynn to Hunstanton.
Taxi
A direct option from the station to the seafront.
Starting the Route in Sections
The Norfolk Coast Path can be joined at multiple points along its length.
Common starting locations include:
- Sheringham and Cromer (both with rail connections)
- Wells-next-the-Sea (central along the route)
- Great Yarmouth (for walking westward)
This allows the route to be walked in sections as well as end to end.
The First Section: Hunstanton to Holme-next-the-Sea
From Hunstanton, the path heads east toward Holme-next-the-Sea, where the coastline begins to shift.
This opening stretch includes:
- Sandy shoreline and low cliffs
- Views across The Wash
- Dunes and coastal nature reserves
- The meeting point with the Peddars Way
It’s a straightforward start, with an open and exposed coastline.
