Photo Album: Chronicles of Cromer
Panoramic view on the approach to Cromer Lighthouse
Before my early twenties, I never would have thought to go on a beach holiday in the UK. Maybe it’s because I don’t drive so had never ventured to the English coast other than Cornwall, or maybe it’s because I am from Leicester - as far as you can get from the sea! - but thoughts of beaches were always linked to exotic locations and guaranteed sunshine.
For five or six years, circumstances meant I was lucky enough to have a place to stay on the wild Norfolk Coast. Taking the 3-hour drive down the A47 became a familiar ritual for me (and I probably enjoyed it more than others because I was always sitting in the passenger seat). Cromer was a place to escape, to unwind, to be free for a while. It’s been a long time since I’ve been, and I’ve visited a lot more places since those days, but I still think it is a beautiful slice of the English coastline, worthy of any holiday.
I came to find that seaside towns in England are full of incredible character. There is fresh seafood to rival the Mediterranean, colourful buildings, sandy shores and rugged cliffs. Even though the sun isn’t guaranteed, the natural beauty is almost intensified when the weather gets rough. And the sunny days are all the more appreciated when they come.
Things to do in and around Cromer
Of course, one of the main attractions is Cromer Beach. It is a peaceful stretch of golden sand and pebbles that looks out to the formidable waters of the North Sea. Strolling along the beach is a great way to spend an hour in any weather - there’s nothing like fresh sea air in your lungs. In good weather, the beach is peppered with families but there is still plenty of space to spread out and relax. No matter how warm it gets, the North Sea always has a chill, but a refreshing dip is part of the experience!
No visit to Cromer Beach would be complete without experiencing the iconic Cromer Pier. Jutting out into the sea, this Victorian gem is not only an iconic landmark but a great place to walk and admire the coastal views. It’s also a popular spot to try your hand at crabbing - there are always lines of kids looking hopefully into the water. I never tried it myself, but always loved seeing the delight echo down the line whenever anyone actually caught a crab!
Culinary Cromer
Are you even at the English seaside if you don’t have fish and chips? There are so many great places to visit in Cromer that I couldn’t list them! But battered fish is only part of the story. Cromer is actually a bit of a foodie gem, offering a range of culinary delights that celebrate the town’s coastal heritage.
The local speciality is Cromer crab, renowned for its sweet and succulent meat and available on menus all over town in the form of crab sandwiches, salads and even crab bisque. If you’ve never tried it (no judgement, because I hadn’t before visiting), this is the place to give it a go.
Strike out to the Norfolk Coast
Cromer’s prime location on the Norfolk coast provides the perfect opportunity to explore further afield.
Walkers will adore the cliff walk from Cromer to neighbouring village, Overstrand. The two-mile stretch follows the base of soft cliffs that are rich in plant and wildlife. Similar to Cromer, Overstrand was once a thriving crab fishing hub. However, Overstrand gained fame in the late 19th century as a favoured retreat for affluent Victorians, earning the moniker 'the village of millionaires.’ There are several grand buildings still standing from that era, notably, architect Sir Edwin Lutyens designed both Overstrand Hall and The Pleasaunce Hotel, adding to the village's architectural splendour.
About 15 minutes drive up the coast is Sherringham, another traditional seaside town. It is known for being the terminus of the North Norfolk Railway, the ‘Poppy Line.’ You can walk around the charming station and even jump on a vintage steam train for a nostalgic journey through the Norfolk Countryside.
A little further afield, but well worth a 45-minute drive, is Wells-next-the-sea. Despite wishing its name was Wells-next-to-the-sea (it would make more sense!), it was otherwise a beautiful sandy beach to walk along, complete with colourful beach huts that brightened up a grey day.
In the other direction, the lighthouse at Happisburgh is worth a visit for its classic red and white striped aesthetic. It is a striking beacon of maritime history, which you can climb up and enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding coastline.
Visiting over many years and in different seasons means I got to see Cromer in all its forms. From scorching beach days to windswept cliff walks, this little stretch of coastal Norfolk will always have a special place in my memories.
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