A view of the red and yellow cliffs of Hunstanton beach reflecting onto the sea.

Norfolk Coast – Saltmarsh, Sand Dunes, and Big-Sky Shoreline

Tidal marsh, sandy beaches, and low cliffs along the North Sea between the Wash and the eastern headlands

The Norfolk Coast is a coastal area of saltmarsh, dunes, shingle banks, and sandy shoreline in the East of England. Walking routes cross the Norfolk Coast National Landscape and follow the Norfolk Coast Path and Peddars Way, linking places such as Hunstanton, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, Cromer, and Sheringham along sea walls, beaches, and low cliffs beside the North Sea.

Much of the terrain is level and firm underfoot. Sea walls, compact sand, shingle paths, and grassy tracks allow steady progress with minimal ascent, while short sections of soft sand and mudflat edges can slow movement.

The landscape shifts between areas. The western coast near the Wash is dominated by saltmarsh and tidal creeks, the central section around Holkham and Wells brings wide beaches and dunes, and the eastern coast toward Cromer and Sheringham becomes higher with low cliffs and sloping headlands.

Settlements are spaced at regular intervals along the shoreline, creating frequent access points for day walks and longer point-to-point routes without long gaps between services.

Trails and Routes Through the Norfolk Coast

Norfolk Coast Path

A long-distance National Trail running from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea along beaches, dunes, sea walls, and low cliffs.

Peddars Way

A National Trail following a Roman road south from the coast at Holme-next-the-Sea through heathland and farmland toward Thetford.

England Coast Path (Norfolk sections)

Signed coastal walking sections extending beyond the National Trail along additional shoreline and estuary paths.

Weavers’ Way (coastal link sections)

Regional paths connecting inland Norfolk with the coast near Cromer and Great Yarmouth.

Walking Character

• Saltmarsh and tidal creeks
• Sand dunes and wide beaches
• Shingle banks and sea walls
• Low cliffs and open headlands
• Level terrain with long horizons
• Small towns and villages at regular intervals
• Open and coastal

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Norfolk Coast located?

The Norfolk Coast runs along the North Sea in the East of England between the Wash in the west and the low cliffs of north-east Norfolk toward Cromer and Great Yarmouth.

What defines walking here?

Level coastal terrain, sea walls, beaches, dunes, and long-distance shoreline paths through open landscapes.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The Norfolk Coast Path and Peddars Way National Trails meet near the coast, with additional sections of the England Coast Path.

Is the terrain steep?

No. Most routes are flat or gently sloping, with only short climbs on cliffs near Cromer and Sheringham.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring through autumn offers drier ground and longer daylight, while winter conditions can be windy and exposed along the shore.