Norfolk Coast

Beaches, Saltmarsh and Coastal Villages

The Norfolk Coast stretches from the Wash in the west through a changing landscape of beaches, saltmarsh, dunes, grazing marsh and coastal villages. Much of the coastline lies within the Norfolk Coast National Landscape, creating one of the most distinctive coastal environments in the East of England.

The Norfolk Coast Path provides one of the best ways to explore the area on foot. From Hunstanton, the trail follows the coast east through places including Brancaster, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, Cley-next-the-Sea and Cromer before continuing towards the quieter eastern stretches of the Norfolk coast. The Peddars Way also reaches the sea near Holme-next-the-Sea, connecting the coast with an ancient route through inland Norfolk.

Wildlife is a defining part of the landscape. Nature reserves and wild places including Holme Dunes, Titchwell Marsh, Cley Marshes and Blakeney Point protect important habitats for birds and other coastal wildlife, while saltmarsh, tidal creeks and sand dunes shape much of the undeveloped coastline.

Historic villages, seaside towns, harbours and landmarks add another layer to the coast. Places such as Burnham Market, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, Sheringham and Cromer provide useful bases for exploring, with local paths making it possible to combine shorter walks with time spent in the towns, villages and landscapes along the route.

Use our Guides to plan your visit, discover Walking Breaks across the Norfolk Coast, or follow the Norfolk Coast Path as part of a longer self-guided Journey.