6 Best Norfolk Coast Villages For Your UK Holiday

Norfolk features over 90 miles of coastline and beaches, with everything from quiet villages to bustling towns. The most easterly county in England, Norfolk has become well-known for its beautiful destinations. It is a very popular place to visit on a staycation in the UK, and while it is a great spot for boating trips, there are also some lovely locations for a holiday on dry land.

The Norfolk coast is made up of many different villages which each boast their own unique identity. Settled within the Norfolk Broads, these quaint destinations are part of some of the most distinctive landscapes in the country. When you visit Norfolk for a holiday, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to charming villages. Whether you want to stay on the Norfolk coast or you are looking for a place to visit for a day out from your holiday in one of Norfolk’s bigger towns, these villages have something for everyone.

Cromer
The parish of Cromer sits on the northern coast of Norfolk and is famed for its impressive pier and seaside fun. If traditional seaside attractions are your ideal holiday activities, then Cromer is the place for you. Cromer Pier dates back to Victorian times and is a stunning throwback to intricate architecture of times gone by. St Peter and Paul Church in the heart of Cromer is another piece of history in the area, which was built in the 14th century and features unique stained-glass windows commemorating the local lifeguard crew. Today, Cromer is famous for its crab and lobster, and there are many local restaurants serving up delicious seafood from the area. Browne’s On Bond Street, the Kings Head and Hot Rocks are all firm favourites among holidaymakers.

Hemsby
Hemsby is a small village just north of Great Yarmouth and the perfect spot for a holiday away from the crowds. It is often paired with the village of Newport, which is also very close by, and together make a wonderful destination on the Norfolk coast. Another traditional seaside resort, Hemsby is famed for its amusement arcades and many local cafes and restaurants. The village itself has a rich history and many dated buildings to explore on a walk around the picturesque area. On the beach you can find relics from World War II and some still-standing coastal defences.

Winterton
For a picture-perfect holiday destination on the Norfolk coast, be sure to head to the village of Winterton. This much-loved village looks like something on a postcard, with intricate floral displays and quaint thatched cottages lining the winding streets. At the coast there are sandy shores which stretch for miles, and with fewer attractions than some other Norfolk beaches, visitors can often avoid the crowds here. Winterton also has its own National Nature Reserve which is perfect for discovering local wildlife and watching the birds. Tourist facilities such as restaurants and shops are a little scarcer in Winterton than other Norfolk villages, but you can grab a bite to eat in Winterton Fish Bar or the Fishermans Return.

Horsey
If your perfect holiday is a secluded, quiet spot with few other tourists around, then Horsey is the Norfolk village for you. During the winter months, Horsey can become a little busier with people coming to see the famous seal pups, and many companies offer sightseeing tours to the area from all around. There aren’t many facilities and attractions in Horsey, making it a great destination if you just want to walk along the beach, explore the Norfolk Broads and enjoy the wild feel of this unique village. Horsey Shop and Tea Room can be found in the village for grabbing a cup of coffee or some essentials for your stay. Otherwise, you might like to enjoy a pint in Nelson Head, a traditional country pub.

Horning
Less seaside and more riverside, Horning is a beautiful village on the northern bank of the River Bure. Just outside of the centre is the beautiful, historic church of St Benedict which is well worth a visit on a holiday to Horning. If you are visiting with family, you can head to BeWILDerwood which is a tree top adventure park just two miles from Horning. While Horning might not be on the Norfolk coast, it still has that coastal village feel with a selection of restaurants and shops on the river’s edge.

Wells-Next-The-Sea
While it isn’t technically a village, the town of Wells-Next-The-Sea has the atmosphere of a small village. Located in the heart of Norfolk’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this is a perfect destination for a holiday with a view. Holkham beach is nearby and has won awards for being one of the best beaches in the country. The miles of sandy shores can feel empty even in the middle of summer, with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their holiday. Wells-Next-The-Sea is a harbour town with plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes serving delicious local seafood.

Did you find this article useful? Why not visit our Norfolk Broads boating holiday page or browse our fantastic choice of waterside properties by the river and a short drive from the coast?