Coast to Countryside: A Tour of North Norfolk’s Best Holiday Destinations

North Norfolk is a beautiful and diverse region, with everything from idyllic coastal villages to rolling countryside and bustling market towns. Here are some of the best holiday destinations in the area.

Brancaster

Brancaster’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions make it a popular destination for luxury travellers seeking a relaxing and indulgent holiday experience.

The village has a breathtaking coastline that stretches for miles, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It is also surrounded by natural reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, providing visitors with the opportunity to see rare birds and other wildlife up close.

Brancaster’s beauty makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and other water sports. There are also miles of hiking and cycling trails through the countryside and along the coast, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the striking scenery. 

Morston

Morston offers several exclusive holiday homes and cottages available for rent in the area. These properties offer privacy, high-end amenities, and stunning countryside views.

Norfolk is known for its locally-sourced, farm-to-table cuisine, and there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in the area that offer exceptional dining experiences. Morston Hall is a luxury hotel and restaurant located in the village that has been awarded two Michelin stars.

Mortson has no shortage of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and other water sports. The nearby Holkham Estate also offers horse riding and deer safaris. There are also several historic landmarks nearby, including the Holkham Hall stately home and the Walsingham Shrine, a major pilgrimage site for Christians.

Old Hunstanton

Old Hunstanton is a charming seaside village located in North Norfolk, England, and is a popular destination for those seeking a luxury holiday experience.

Old Hunstanton is close to several historic landmarks, including the medieval castle at Castle Rising and the historic market town of King’s Lynn. The village also has its own historic church, St Mary’s, which dates back to the 14th century.

Golf fanatics will feel at home in Old Hunstanton. Hunstanton Golf Club is one of the oldest links courses in the country and offers stunning views of the coastline. Consider playing a round of golf at this exclusive club, which has hosted several prestigious tournaments over the years. 

The village is home to several award-winning restaurants that serve up fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. Consider dining at one of these high-end establishments, which offer exceptional food and service. Examples include The Neptune Inn, which serves up fresh seafood in a relaxed, stylish setting, and The White Horse, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Thornham 

The small coastal village of Thornham is a gem in North Norfolk’s crown, sitting in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This makes Tornham a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, horse riding, and other activities. 

If being outside if key for your holiday, The Holme Dunes Nature Reserve is a beautiful area of coastal grassland and sand dunes, and is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife. Consider taking a guided tour of the reserve, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful landscape.

Holidays are a time to indulge and Thornham is not short of restaurants. Favourites include  The Orange Tree, which serves up modern British cuisine in a relaxed, stylish setting, and The Chequers Inn, which offers a fine dining experience using locally-sourced ingredients.

Wells-next-the-Sea

Wells-next-the-Sea has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, and there are several historic landmarks and cultural attractions in the area. Visitors can explore the town’s historic harbour, visit the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, or take a boat trip to see the seals at Blakeney Point.

The port town is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including sand dunes, salt marshes, and beautiful beaches. The town also has a beautiful pine forest, which is a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Hiking, cycling, bird-watching, sailing, and other water sports are popular pastimes of holiday makers. There are also a number of nature reserves and sanctuaries, giving visitors the opportunity to see rare birds and other wildlife up close. 

After a busy day, Wells-next-the-Sea has several award-winning restaurants that serve up fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. The Crow Hotel is a popular choice and boasts two AA Rosettes for its outstanding cuisine and service. 

Where should you stay in North Norfolk?

North Norfolk is a stunning region, with a picturesque coastline, rolling countryside, and quaint villages. It is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful escape from busy city life, and luxury Norfolk cottages provide the perfect accommodation for such a getaway.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to mini break and holiday destinations in North Norfolk. Fortunately, it very easy to travel between all the prime locations, both by car and public transport. Therefore, it is really a question of where you should base yourself. Steer clear of the hotels and complexes; holiday cottages offer a more relaxed and homely atmosphere in comparison. 

North Norfolk is a perfect location for a family holiday and the region is extremely pet-friendly. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings, museums, and galleries to explore. Staying in a holiday cottage allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, and experience life as a local, rather than just a tourist.

Overall, holiday cottages provide a comfortable, convenient, and authentic way to experience the beauty and charm of North Norfolk, which is why they are so popular regardless of where you choose to base yourself.