Cromer Beach

The beach at Cromer is exactly what you want from a traditional Norfolk seaside town - nothing flashy, just a proper stretch of sand and shingle with the pier as its focal point. The pier itself is the real draw: a Victorian structure that's held up remarkably well, complete with an arcade, a small theatre, and a fish and chip shop at the end. Walk out there on a clear day and you get decent views back across the coast.

The beach itself is fine for a few hours. Families with young kids will do well enough paddling in the shallows, though the shingle does get steep in places. The main advantage of Cromer over busier Norfolk beaches is the lack of crowds - even in summer it feels manageable. Stick around town for lunch at one of the cafes lining the seafront, or grab takeaway fish and chips to eat on the sand.

Practically speaking, the beach is free and accessible year-round, though winter can get bitter when the wind's off the North Sea. Allow a couple of hours for a decent visit - more if the pier's got something on. The town sits well for a park-based holiday: Seacroft Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is barely half a mile away, and there are several other options within walking distance like West Runton Camping & Caravanning Club just over a mile down the coast. From here you can easily reach Sheringham or head inland to explore the Norfolk countryside. Cromer Beach won't blow your mind, but it's a solid half-day stop that captures the charm of the Norfolk coast without the pretence.