NORFOLK BEACHES

Norfolk has a long coastline, which is blessed with some of the best beaches in England

The long coastline of Norfolk falls into two very different categories. From the Wash around to Sheringham and Cromer, the sea is gradually retreating giving rise to sandbanks, spits of land and silted harbours. From Cromer onwards, the sea is gradually gaining ground, and in many places the soft clay cliffs are being deeply erroded. However, around the entire Norfolk coastline, there are a number of fine sandy Norfolk beaches, some remote and quiet but becoming more developed around the major towns, villages and resorts. This part of the UK coast has something for everyone and makes a great seaside holiday or weekend break.

We start our tour of Norfolk Beaches on the West Coast at Hunstanton. Under a watchful eye of the famous stripped cliffs, there are miles of sandy beaches. At Old Hunstanton, the beaches are virtually deserted and you can walk for miles without seeing anyone else!

Moving up onto the North Coast and passing the famous harbours of Brancaster and Burnham Overy Staithe, we come to Holkham Bay. Holkham Bay is one of the best bays not only in Norfolk, but in England. It is fairly unique in that the large sandy bay is completely surrounded by pine woods, making it a lovely place for a walk.

After a stretch of pebbles, the cliffs begin to rise at Weybourne, leading to yet more wonderful Norfolk beaches in East Norfolk.

The resorts of Sheringham and Cromer, both have a lovely Norfolk beach. The beach is lower down at Sheringham however, so you have to wait for the tide to go out!

Some real Norfolk gems can be found on the Norfolk East Coast. The beach here is usually empty and offers miles of unspoilt sand to enjoy! this stretch of UK coast has some of the best beaches in England.

Sea Palling is a blue flag beach, with a jet ski centre.

Further down the Norfolk East Coast is Horsey. A very quiet, remote and usually empty beach, it is a good place to see a grey seal, as they pop their heads above the waves to say "hello"!

Although only a few miles from Yarmouth, Winterton on Sea is a lovely unspoilt seaside resort, with is roots in fishing. You will find no amusement arcades or brash shops here, just a wonderful sandy beach and sand dunes, designated an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The beach at Great Yarmouth is fabulous and the sands extend for miles, it makes a great family bucket and spade holiday. There are deck chairs for hire, stalls selling all kinds of refreshments and durng the summer months there is daily entertainment. Even in high summer you can still find a place on the beack to yourself!

Bucket and Spades at Great Yarmouth