A pair of neighbouring Norfolk villages where saltmarsh harbours, big skies, and long-distance coastal routes create an outstanding base for slow coastal exploration.
Brancaster Staithe and Burnham Deepdale sit side by side on the Norfolk Coast Path, forming a natural hub for walking holidays along one of England’s most atmospheric coastlines. Overlooking tidal creeks and saltmarsh, the villages provide direct access to harbour-side paths, expansive beaches, and wildlife-rich coastal walking between Holme-next-the-Sea to the west and Wells-next-the-Sea to the east. The open landscape, changing tides, and wide skies define walking here.
Beyond the immediate shoreline, the area also supports wider outdoor adventures that extend inland and across the marshes. From Brancaster Staithe Quay, routes follow creeks and sea walls toward Brancaster Beach, while quiet lanes lead inland to Barrow Common for elevated views across the coast. From Burnham Deepdale, walkers can explore sheltered harbour paths and viewpoints across to Scolt Head Island, combining coastal walking with calm estuary scenery.
With a strong range of places to stay, including coastal inns, guesthouses, campsites, and walking-friendly accommodation at Burnham Deepdale, the area works well for both short coastal breaks and longer self-guided trips. Flat coastal terrain also makes it suitable for relaxed cycling holidays, particularly when linking villages, beaches, and nature reserves along the coast.
