Thornham, Norfolk – Coastal Village on the Norfolk Coast Path

Saltmarsh Paths, Harbour Creeks, and the Norfolk Coast National Landscape

Thornham is a small coastal village on the north Norfolk coast along the Norfolk Coast Path, set within the Norfolk Coast National Landscape between Holme-next-the-Sea and Brancaster Staithe. Walking into the village, the route follows raised sea walls and grassy tracks above saltmarsh and tidal creeks, with wide views across the Wash and open skies typical of this stretch of coast.

The settlement sits slightly inland from the marsh edge, arranged along a quiet road that runs parallel to the shoreline. From the path, short links lead into the village and down toward the harbour, where channels, boats, and mudflats define the character of the landscape. Walking here remains level and steady, shaped more by distance and exposure than by ascent.

Thornham offers useful services for walkers. There are pubs, cafés, small shops, and accommodation in and around the village, making it a practical place to stop or stay while walking this section of the Norfolk Coast Path. The compact layout allows easy access between the route and local facilities.

Beyond Thornham, the Norfolk Coast Path continues east toward Brancaster Staithe along open marsh and sea wall, or west toward Holme-next-the-Sea across dunes and quieter shoreline. The built environment quickly thins, and the character returns to open coast, nature reserves, and protected landscapes within the wider National Landscape.