EVERYONE might be heading to Cornwall this summer for their summer staycation – but my English county is a much better option.
Born and raised in Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk, my teenage summers were spent eating chips on the quay and hosting beach parties with my friends.
My home county is a much better option that Cornwall[/caption]
I’ve since travelled the world, from Iceland to California, yet nothing compares to the sunsets I’ve seen from my bedroom window in Norfolk.
Not only does it get less rain than Cornwall (which is actually one of the UK’s wettest regions) but we get a much earlier sunrise and we want tourists to visit.
The vast open space makes our skies clear and full of stars, and I’ve even caught a glimpse of the Northern Lights from Brancaster harbour.
From discovering secluded beaches to trying just about every fish and chip shop along the coast, I’ve put together the perfect guide to my home county to show you why Norfolk is the best place to spend your summer in the UK.
The Best of Beaches
When it comes to beach days in Norfolk, we’re truly spoilt for choice.
Away from the packed and pebbled beaches of the south coast, here you’ll find stretches of golden sand that go on for miles.
If you’re looking for a slice of private paradise, the beach at Holme is my favourite spot hands-down.
As the masses flock to Sheringham and Cromer, the dunes of Holme are only visited by the odd dog-walker and locals in the know.
Nearby Thornham beach is equally as beautiful, and often even more quiet.
The walk down to the shore through the pine forest and into the marshes is long but scenic, perfect for those seeking seclusion.
It usually takes about 20 minutes to walk from the main road down to the sea, but you’ll soon realise the walk is worth it once you have the whole stretch of sand to yourself!
The dunes at Holme stretch for miles – and you often have the place to yourself![/caption]
The Norfolk Coast Path takes you through 84 miles of scenic sands[/caption]
The marshes on the way down to Thornham make the walk worthwhile[/caption]
Another way to take in the views of Norfolk’s Blue Flag beaches is to walk the famous Norfolk Coast Path (or at least a section of it, unless you fancy walking 84 miles from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea)!
Smack bang in the middle of the Coast Path you’ll find the White Horse in Brancaster-Staithe.
You’ll spot their Marshside bar from the path, the perfect pit-stop for a pint on your journey.
Soak up the Sights
It may be named England’s ‘flattest county’, but Norfolk’s wide and sandy coastline makes for some of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen.
For the most breathtaking of views, you’ll want to catch the sunset from Hunstanton Cliffs.
It’s the only spot on the East coast that faces West, so it’s the perfect place to park up and watch the sun dipping into the sea.
My personal favourite way to watch the sunset is out on the sea in Burnham Overy Staithe.
The beach at Old Hunstanton is still one of my favourite spots to show my friends[/caption]
Bring your own, rent one or join a tour – paddleboarding is a great way to see Norfolk on the water[/caption]
Take a stand-up paddleboard (or take a lesson with North Norfolk Paddleboards from £48) and get out onto the marshes for a truly magical way to view the sunset on the water.
Alternatively, if you watch from Cley or Blakeney point, you might see a seal or two pop up to join you!
If you want to get up close and personal with the local seals, take a trip with Beans Seal Trips from Morston Quay to visit them out on the sandbanks.
The trips run every day from April through to October, and cost £20 per adult or £10 per child (pre-booking is essential, they’re very popular!)
Common seals and grey seals are dotted all along the North Norfolk coastline[/caption]
Fun for all the Family
Not only do we have stunning nature here in Norfolk, but there’s plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep the kids happy on your holiday.
Our coastline is dotted with picturesque seaside towns from Heacham to Cromer, packed with traditional arcades and endless activities.
I grew up bowling at Hunstanton Pier, and endlessly trying to win a giant Hello Kitty teddy at the Pop Inn Amusements in Wells (spoiler alert: she’s now sat on my bed).
If you’re bringing the kids, visit Hunstanton to explore the aquarium and meet Ernie the green sea turtle, or try your hand at the Aztec-themed crazy golf on the promenade.
Crabbing on the quay at Wells-next-the-Sea is a must on your trip to North Norfolk, and if you’re feeling brave, visit the next town along, Holkham, for their action-packed ropes course.
The coastal charm of ice cream parlours and amusements makes Norfolk the perfect pick for a traditional British holiday[/caption]
Top Food and Drink
In Norfolk you’ll be spoilt for choice for the best bites to eat.
From award-winning fish and chips to delicious stonebaked pizza, I’ve ticked just about every coastal restaurant off the list.
My top pick for traditional fish and chips has to be French’s in Wells-next-the-Sea.
There’s a historic rivalry between the two quayside chippies, French’s and Plattens, but French’s takes the cake with its fresh fish and tasty new potatoes.
You’ll see lines out the door during peak times, so it’s best to pop in early to avoid the queues.
French’s fish and chips – I promise they’re worth the wait![/caption]
I usually go just before midday – the queue that forms in the early afternoon often runs all the way into the evening.
If you can’t decide what you fancy, head to Thornham’s Drove Orchards.
Here you’ll find a variety of restaurants and pop-ups, so you can mix and match whatever you please.
Stop by Eric’s pizza for a traditional margherita in a unique Yurt, or pop into Mim’s for a scoop of gelato after a day of lounging in the sun.
My favourite part about living in Norfolk is how dog-friendly we are. A large majority of our pubs and cafés welcome dogs, so there’s no need to leave your furry friend at home.
The Rose and Crown is a classic and cosy British pub serving excellent local food[/caption]
If you’re looking for a solid pub with great food where you can bring your pet along, the Rose and Crown in Snettisham has a dog-friendly bar and restaurant, as well as a cosy, walled beer garden.
But perhaps my favourite corner of the coast is Old Hunstanton Beach Café.
After letting the dog run wild on the beach, you can stop by for a great full English and a cup of tea.
But the best part is their dog wall of fame, where you can pin a picture of your four-legged friend to remember your trip together.
