The best Norfolk coastal walks

Norfolk is home to some of the most beautiful coastal walks in the country with its expansive coastline and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply enjoy a relaxed stroll, there’s something for everyone along Norfolk’s coastal paths. These Norfolk coastal walks include stunning beaches, fossil-packed cliffs, national landscapes and unique salt marshes – some paths even pass through areas where you may spot rare species of birds and wildlife.

We’ve rounded up some of the best Norfolk coastal walks, whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a challenging hike. Pack your walking boots, pop your phone in your pocket (you’ll need it to capture photos of the stunning scenery) and put your best foot forward to discover some of Norfolk's awe-inspiring landscapes.

If you’ve got your heart set on a Norfolk coastal getaway, why not browse our collection of lovely cottages by the sea?

Skip to these top Norfolk coastal walks

• Wells-next-the-Sea to Stiffkey
• Winterton-on-Sea to Horsey
• Cromer and Felbrigg circular
• Gorleston-on-Sea circular
• Happisburgh circular
• Great Yarmouth to Caister-on-Sea
• Blakeney circular

Wells-next-the-Sea to Stiffkey

Wells-next-the-Sea is known for its picture-perfect salt marshes which are one of the most significant features of the North Norfolk coast. Starting at Wells Harbour car park, this walk takes you along a scenic path through one of the country’s most wildlife-rich salt marshes to Stiffkey. The trail follows the road passing plenty of cafes, pubs, and restaurants with plenty of benches on the way to take a break and enjoy the beautiful views.

Winterton-on-Sea to Horsey circular walk

Winterton-on-Sea is one of the best Norfolk coastal walks due to its diverse range of scenery which includes stunning coastal views, an ancient ruin to explore, glimpses of the seals, and even a chance to spot rare species – including the natterjack toad. Winterton’s neighboring beach, Horsey, is where the walk concludes and is also a major wildlife site, even in the winter months.

The route takes you through sand dunes and coastal paths, offering breathtaking views and many opportunities to spot wildlife. Winterton-on-Sea and Horsey Gap are great spots for seal-watching in the winter, with over 4,000 seals spotted here in recent seasons.

Cromer and Felbrigg circular walk

Start your walk in the Victorian seaside town of Cromer, known for its quintessentially British pier and Cromer crabs that are popular for their unique, sweet flavour. The route meanders through scenic woodlands and fields to Felbrigg Hall, a beautifully preserved, 17th-century Jacobean mansion.

This idyllic Norfolk coastal walk combines both seaside and countryside landscapes, making it very versatile and the perfect choice for a range of different walkers.

Gorleston-on-Sea circular walk

Starting in the charming seaside town of Gorleston-on-Sea, this circular Norfolk coastal walk takes you along beautiful sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. It provides excellent views of the North Sea and Scroby Wind Farm – one of the first to be developed in the UK.

The route starts at the Pier Hotel where you will walk to the Spur breakwater, before returning to your starting position along the traditional promenade. The town itself is a great place to explore before or after your walk, with many cafes, pubs and shops.

Happisburgh circular walk

This Norfolk coastal walk starts in the car park in the picturesque village of Happisburgh, known for being a site of national archaeological importance due to an almost 800,000-year-old hand axe being unearthed here – the oldest evidence of human occupation ever found in the UK.

Happisburgh boasts an iconic lighthouse, making a great start and end point for this 7-mile circular walk. The route meanders along the cliffs with views of the dramatic coastal erosion affecting the area.

Great Yarmouth circular walk

This 5-mile, scenic Norfolk coastal walk in Great Yarmouth combines seaside charm and historical intrigue. The route is easy to follow and is perfect for those looking for a leisurely stroll with plenty of fun stops along the way.

Great Yarmouth is home to many historical sites such as one of the world’s oldest scenic railways, this route showcases the diverse scenery of the town and also passes the River Yare.

Blakeney circular walk

Blakeney is famous for its wildlife, particularly its seal colonies and birdwatching opportunities. This circular walk takes you through the Blakeney National Nature Reserve which features beautiful salt marshes, sand dunes and mud flats.

This route offers spectacular views of the coastline and even has the opportunity for a boat trip to see the seals up close.

Stay on the Norfolk coast

Discover the beautiful Norfolk coast, renowned for its fantastic birdlife and sandy beaches, while staying in our holiday cottages. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a beach lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Norfolk coast offers something for everyone. Our cottages provide the perfect base to explore this stunning region, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and miles of unspoiled, sandy beaches.