Booking a trip abroad this summer can be a difficult task. With expensive flights and airport transfers, not to mention the price of a French hotel, many Brits are now choosing to explore the Great British Isles – and they’re finding some beauties. For one destination that has stood out as a must-visit staycation spot, you’ll need to venture east to the Norfolk coast.
The county is full of some of the spectacular coastal spots, from the endless beach at Holkham to the equally long quay at Wells-next-the-Sea, but it’s the slightly larger hub of north Norfolk that has people talking: Cromer. Although many may know the town for its famous crabs, it is a destination in its own right.
The town itself is perched on top of a rugged clifftop, surrounded by woodlands and the Norfolk countryside giving it some breathtaking views of the North Sea.
At the heart of the town is Cromer’s renowned Victorian pier, which offers a variety of entertainment as visitors can catch a show at the Pavillion Theatre, enjoy the arcade, or have fun just strolling up and down it; you may even recognise it as the location for Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa.
The pier is such a stunner that last year it gained the coveted title of “Pier of the Year” by the National Piers Society due to its popularity with visitors, well-maintained Victorian charm and stunning views.
For literary enthusiasts, readers might recognise the line in Jane Austen’s novel, Emma, where she penned: “You should have gone to Cromer… the best of all the sea bathing places. A fine open sea… and very pure air.”
Meanwhile, the author of Sherlock Holmes, Arthur Conan Doyle, was inspired by Cromer’s local folklore of the mythical hound Black Shuck, who inspired one of his most iconic mysteries The Hounds of Baskervilles.
What to do in Cromer?
Of course, a visit to Cromer isn’t complete without a trip to its incredible golden sandy beach, which is surrounded by colourful beach huts making it the perfect background for sunbathing, relaxing walks and even snorkelling.
The beach itself has wowed many visitors, with one taking to Google Reviews describing it as “the most beautiful yet underrated beach”.
Another user heaped on the praise and wrote: “Beautiful town and beach. The beach was almost empty despite it being the school holidays. Beautiful town with both local independent shops and larger chains.”
While one more added: “It’s the loveliest town I’ve ever visited… great atmosphere and fantastic fish and chips.”
The town itself is full of independent boutique shops, cafes and bakeries and is great for an afternoon wander. Anyone wanting to stretch their legs can jump on the scenic Norfolk Coastal Path that can weave you through dunes and countryside.
Of course, it would be rude not to also sample the local delicacies, with its famous fresh Cromer Crab being a must on any visit.
And for those instead want some classic fish and chips, No. 1 Cromer is owned by Michellin-star chef Galton Blackiston and holds incredible views of the seaside and pier.
