Two sailboats resting on tidal sandbanks at low tide on the Norfolk Coast, surrounded by wide saltmarsh and calm shallow water, with soft coastal light and a hazy horizon.

Norfolk Coast National Landscape – Saltmarsh, Shingle, and Big Skies

A Broad Tidal Coast Shaped by Marsh, Shingle, and Changing Seas

The Norfolk Coast National Landscape — formerly designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — is one of England’s most distinctive and wildlife-rich coastal regions, forming a defining part of the East of England. Shaped by saltmarsh, sand dunes, pinewoods, grazing marsh, and vast open skies, the landscape stretches from Hunstanton in the west to Sea Palling in the east.

Field Notes

The Norfolk Coast National Landscape — Seals, Skies, and Wild Places

Field observations from Cley and Blakeney Point along the Norfolk Coast Path.

Cley Windmill overlooking reedbeds and cottages at Cley-next-the-Sea on the Norfolk Coast.

This is a coastline made for exploring. Long, uninterrupted stretches of shoreline combine with quiet marsh paths, clifftop walking, and village-to-village routes across one of Britain’s most expansive and atmospheric coastal environments. Protected habitats and tidal landscapes create immersive walking experiences where light, weather, and wildlife shape every journey.

The Norfolk Coast Path forms the backbone of walking here, following beaches, creeks, dunes, and harbour villages along the full length of the National Landscape. Inland links to the Peddars Way allow walkers to combine coast and countryside, creating longer self-guided routes that move seamlessly from Breckland heath to open shoreline.

Walking in the Norfolk Coast National Landscape is defined by space and variety. One day may follow firm sands beneath wide skies, the next wind through reedbeds and grazing marsh alive with birds. Saltmarsh creeks twist inland, dunes rise and fall with the wind, and coastal villages offer natural stopping points rather than busy hubs.

Beyond walking, the Norfolk Coast is exceptionally well suited to nature-led outdoor adventures. Wildlife watching is a constant presence, with seals hauled out on sandbanks, migrating birds moving along the coast, and rare species thriving in protected reserves. Tidal channels and sheltered waters offer opportunities for paddling, while photographers and nature lovers are drawn by the clarity of light and sense of openness.

Cycling is equally rewarding, thanks to quiet coastal lanes, bridleways, and flat terrain linking beaches, villages, and nature reserves. Gentle distances make the area ideal for relaxed bike journeys between places such as Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, Holkham, Burnham Market, and Brancaster.

Accommodation is spread throughout the landscape, with coastal inns, flint cottages, harbour guesthouses, and nature-friendly B&Bs positioned close to beaches and trails. Villages including Wells, Cley, Burnham Overy Staithe, and Brancaster Staithe provide excellent bases for walking holidays with easy access to both coast and countryside.

Whether you’re walking the length of the coast, linking inland trails to the sea, or exploring marsh and dune landscapes at a slower pace, the Norfolk Coast National Landscape offers one of England’s most rewarding coastal walking experiences.

Where to Walk and Explore

Norfolk Coast Path — National Landscape Section

‍A long-distance coastal route from Hunstanton to Sea Palling, winding through beaches, saltmarsh, dunes, creeks, and historic villages.

Peddars Way & Coast Path Link

‍A Roman road across open Breckland that meets the coast at Holme-next-the-Sea, creating a classic inland–coastal walking combination.

Holkham to Wells-next-the-Sea

‍A sweeping sands walk along one of England’s most iconic beaches, framed by pinewoods, creeks, and expansive skies.

Blakeney Point & Cley Marshes

‍A wildlife-rich walking area through saltmarsh and shingle, famous for seals, migrating birds, and wide, open horizons.

Adventure Highlights

Seal watching at Blakeney Point and Horsey Gap
Birdwatching at Cley Marshes, Titchwell Marsh, and Holme Dunes
Wide sandy beaches at Holkham, Brancaster, Old Hunstanton, and Holme
Traditional coastal villages including Wells-next-the-Sea, Cley, Blakeney, and Burnham Market
Historic landscapes such as Holkham Hall, Burnham Overy windmill, and flint-built settlements
Accessible routes for short walks, full-day hikes, multi-day journeys, and coast-to-inland adventures

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Norfolk Coast National Landscape located?

It lies along the north coast of Norfolk in eastern England, stretching from Hunstanton to Sea Palling.

Is the Norfolk Coast good for on foot exploring?

Yes — it’s one of England’s finest coastal walking destinations, offering long-distance routes, short circular walks, and varied terrain across beaches, marsh, and dunes.

Can I combine coastal and inland walking here?

Absolutely. The Norfolk Coast Path links directly with the Peddars Way, allowing walkers to combine inland countryside with coastal routes.

Is the area suitable for wildlife-focused travel?

Very much so. The Norfolk Coast is internationally important for birdlife and marine wildlife, with numerous protected reserves.

Which villages make the best bases?

Popular bases include Wells-next-the-Sea, Cley, Blakeney, Burnham Market, Brancaster, and Burnham Overy Staithe.