Things To Do on the Royal Norfolk Coast
Beaches
Compared to the North Coast, the Royal Norfolk Coast has an untouched feel to it. Hunstanton beach, known to locals as Sunny Hunny, is renowned for its striking cliffs which are striped with pink and white pigment. The only beach to face west in East Anglia, the area is relatively protected from sea breezes making it a popular spot. Old Hunstanton and Heacham beaches boast golden beaches ideal for family days out or walking the dog. For those looking for something off the beaten track, try Holme-next-the-sea beach just along the coast from Hunstanton. A mix of shingle and sand, this is a perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the tranquility of the Norfolk Coast.
Wildlife
The Royal Norfolk Coast has not one but two renowned Nature Reserves. RSPB Titchwell is a haven for wildlife, with a diverse range of habitats including reedbeds, salt marshes and freshwater lagoons. Be sure to bring your binoculars along to catch a glimpse of bearded tits and marsh harriers. Further along the coast, discover RSPB Snettisham and its many hides in which you can marvel at the unique Norfolk landscape, enjoy panoramic views out to sea and if you come during late summer, enjoy the fantastic ‘whirling wader spectacle’. If you are in Hunstanton, be sure to take ‘The Wash Monster’, a converted WWI amphibious vehicle that takes you out to the local seal colony - can you get any more unique than that?
Travel a little further south along the coast and find your way to the Ringstead Downs Nature Reserve, set in a deep sided chalk valley, it supports a diverse range of plants and animals, including over 20 species of butterflies and is home to some of our most endangered species of birds, such as the yellowhammer, the white throat and the linnet.
Active Norfolk
If you are looking to stretch your legs on your holiday, then the Royal Norfolk Coast is perfect. Home to the Peddars way, a walking route that will take you all the way along the coast, ideal for those looking to discover remote areas and beautiful landscapes. If you want just a taster of the Royal Norfolk Coast, take a stroll along Hunstanton’s Horticultural Trail, a 1.5 mile route that takes you to 14 different locations in the town, including a specially designed Sensory Garden with opportunities to touch, hear and smell the plants and sculptures. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, look no further. Hunstanton beach is famed for its kitesurfing and power kiting, the relatively flat water making it perfect for beginners or freestylers. There are plenty of companies to teach you the basics if you are looking to give it a try or simply take in the spectacular view of the pros doing their thing.
Attractions
Norfolk Lavender is now world famous and at the dedicated centre at Heacham you can enjoy wandering around the lavender gardens, visit the Lavender Oil Distillery and view the National Lavender Collection and Herb Garden. Take in that beautiful smell of the lavender growing in the fields with an equally stunning view and make sure you pop into the shop on the way home to take a little bit of your Norfolk adventure back with you. For a dive into the past, visit Bircham Windmill one of the final remaining working windmills in the region that still grinds corn for bread-making. Climb the five stories and take in the breathtaking views from the top and make your very own Bircham Windmill loaf in the original bakery.
For the Kids
The Royal Norfolk Coast is a fantastic place for a family friendly holiday, with attractions that will be loved by all ages and satisfy all interests. At Snettisham Park visit the working farm and feed the young animals, collect eggs, groom ponies and in spring watch the arrival of the new born lambs and calves. For rainy days, take the kids to Hunstanton Sea Life sanctuary. View the rescued seals and otters, walk through a wall of piranha fish (if you dare) and watch the sharks get their lunch. If arts and crafts is your thing, watch professional glass blowers and master craftsmen at work at Caithness Crystal Centre at King's Lynn and then try your own hand at glass blowing. Children can try making a friendship ball and adults can tackle a whisky tumbler or a paperweight to take home.
