Holkham Beach

Wide sands, dunes and open coast

Holkham Beach lies on the Norfolk Coast, where an extensive sweep of sand, dunes and tidal flats creates one of the most distinctive coastal landscapes in north Norfolk. Backed by pine woodland and protected habitats, the beach forms part of the wider landscape of the Norfolk Coast National Landscape.

The scale of the beach becomes particularly apparent at low tide, when broad areas of sand are exposed between the dunes and the sea. Dunes, saltmarsh, woodland and open shoreline create a varied coastal environment, with the character of the landscape changing considerably with the tide and weather.

The Norfolk Coast Path passes through the wider Holkham landscape, connecting Burnham Overy Staithe to the west with Wells-next-the-Sea to the east. The route provides one of the best ways to experience the beach and surrounding coast on foot, with long stretches of open shoreline and coastal habitat forming part of the walk.

Inland, Holkham and Holkham Hall provide a contrast to the open coast, with historic parkland and estate landscapes lying behind the beach. Together, the beach, dunes, woodland, estate and nearby villages make Holkham a particularly varied part of the north Norfolk coast to explore on foot.

For visitors exploring Holkham Beach and the surrounding Norfolk Coast National Landscape, The Globe Inn provides accommodation overlooking The Buttlands in Wells-next-the-Sea. From the inn, visitors can explore Wells Beach, the harbour and the Norfolk Coast Path on foot, with Holkham Beach, its dunes and pine woodland accessible along the coast to the west.