North Norfolk is renowned for its spectacular coastline, abundant wildlife, glorious beaches, picturesque market towns and National Trust properties. Few counties offer such a diverse range of activities and Fakenham Fairways is the perfect base to start exploring.
We all like to be beside the seaside
Seaside adventures await along the stunning North Norfolk coast!
Brancaster Beach offers an enormous stretch of golden sand, perfect for walking, relaxing, building sandcastles, or even a refreshing dip in the sea (a brisk one in April!). At Cley, listen to the rhythmic crash of waves on the pebble shore, while Wells-next-the-Sea—famous for its colourful beach huts—is just a 15-minute drive from Fakenham Fairways.
Holkham Beach seems endless, covering a vast 20 million square feet of flat sand bordered by windswept dunes and pine forests. It’s ideal for kite flying, beach cricket, or a scenic 4-mile circular walk along the shoreline to Wells-next-the-Sea and back through the woods.
The chalk reef off Cromer, the longest in the world, dates back to the time of the dinosaurs. There’s something truly magical about watching the vast sky meet the sea along this stretch of coast.
For rock pooling, West Runton is a favourite among our campers, while Holme proved to be the perfect spot for swimming last summer—though we can’t always guarantee Mediterranean-like waters!
In its “50 Best Beaches,” The Times described arriving in Sheringham as like stepping back into the 1930s. One of our personal favourites is the walk from Burnham Overy Staithe along the flood defence, where you’ll pass bird-filled marshes before climbing towering sand dunes to reach a breathtakingly quiet beach.
Want to explore more of North Norfolk’s incredible beaches? Click here to find out more!
Out and about on foot
The North Norfolk coastal path stretches from Hunstanton to Cromer. You can walk along the well-marked path for as long or as little as you like. Stopping off at towns and villages on the way (maybe for a bite to eat or a sneaky pint) and then if you don’t fancy walking back you can jump on the coast hopper bus to take you back to your car.
We have walked most of the coastal path and are always taken aback by its vastness and beauty. We love the salt marshes, sand dunes and harbours. Our favourites definitely include the walk from Cley to Blakeney Point to watch the seals, and Holme to Brancaster for a little seafood at the White Horse. Parking at Lady Anne’s Drive you can either head west along the beach to Burnham Overay Staith or if you fancy a circular walk (with a coffee and pastry half way) turn right towards Wells and head back through the pinewoods (if you are lucky you might catch sight and sound of the pink footed geese).
Food food food and a litle drink
North Norfolk is fast becoming a foodie’s paradise. There are local farm shops and delis, cosy pubs and some absolutely gorgeous fresh fish and chips. Our personal favourites are the White Horse at Brancaster, the Dun Cow at Salthouse and this year Mr Chips in Fakenham is where we pop to get fish and chips for my mum (just writing this makes me feel hungry!)
Get on your bike
Our campsite is a stone’s throw away from the National Cycle Network Route 1.
There is a 12 mile (20km) ride to Wells-next-the-Sea. Just half a mile up the road you can pick up the NCN route 1. This is a pleasant, fairly flat route. The route follows a mixture of quiet country roads and off road cycle paths before finishing at the harbour of this quintessential Norfolk coastal town.
Highlights on the route include Walsingham Abbey and the coastal views as you approach Wells.
More info: GPS Cycle & Walking Routes Fakenham to Wells-next-the-Sea
For those feeling more energetic you can follow the National cycle road 1 in the opposite direction and cycle the 29 miles to Norwich. This follows quiet roads and the beautiful Marriott way.
On and in the water
Back to nature
North Norfolk is a birdwatcher’s paradise with and they are seldom disappointed. It all starts within a mile of the campsite at Sculthorpe Moor with its diverse range of habitats that attracts all sorts of bird life. Created by the Hawk and Owl Trust to protect and enhance the very special habitat in the Wensum Valley of Norfolk, it includes the valley’s only example of saw sedge wetland, and has breeding marsh harriers, water rails and kingfishers as well as barn owls. Otters use its waterways and the fen is home to many species of dragonfly, butterfly and flowering plants.
More info: Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve
The National Wildlife trust at Cley and Salthouse marshes is one of the country’s most popular birdwatching hotspots. Numerous hides give fantastic views across landscapes specifically managed to attract breeding and migrating birds. Snettisham is the place to witness a great wildlife spectacular as big tides cover the mudflats and result in 10s of thousands of wading birds being pushed off their feeding grounds.
RSPB at Titchwell is another camper’s favourite. Big skies, a fabulous sandy beach and bird filled reed beds gets them going back time after time.
Seeing the seals
Experience the thrill of observing seals in their natural habitat along Norfolk’s coast. Several operators offer boat trips to see these fascinating creatures up close. Beans Boat Trips, a family-run business, provides year-round excursions from Morston Quay to Blakeney Point. Their tours offer excellent views of common and grey seals basking on the sandbanks.
Bishop’s Boats has been running seal-watching trips since the early 1960s. Departing from Blakeney Harbour and Morston Quay, they operate traditional wooden boats, offering a unique experience.
John Bean Boat Trips boasts over 80 years of experience sailing at Blakeney Point. This family-run, dog-friendly service provides entertaining and educational commentary during their tours.
Ptarmigan Seal Trips offers daily excursions from April to early November. Their purpose-built ferry boat ensures a comfortable journey to see the seals.
These trips typically last about an hour, with longer tours available in the summer when conditions permit. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Wander around
If you fancy a wander, some shopping, or a bit of entertainment, North Norfolk has plenty to offer.
Burnham Market and Holt are perfect for boutique shopping. With independent stores and stylish cafés, they create a charming atmosphere.
Cromer, a traditional seaside town, boasts a historic pier. Here, you’ll find the lifeboat station and the famous Pavilion Theatre.
Hunstanton, or “Sunny Hunny,” has something for everyone. Marvel at the striking red and white cliffs, enjoy fish and chips, or take a donkey ride.
Sheringham is known for its crabbing and lobster fishing. A promenade runs along the seawall, offering stunning coastal views.
Many cafés and restaurants overlook the beach, making it easy to relax while enjoying the scenery.
Whether you prefer a bustling market town, a peaceful coastal walk, or traditional seaside fun, North Norfolk’s towns and villages provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable day out.
If you’re interested in exploring more of North Norfolk, check out these nearby towns and villages. Each link takes you to a detailed page about the area, offering highlights and must-see attractions:
Visit big houses and gardens
We have many stately homes in the area for you to explore.
You can visit the Sandringham Estate, a house and gardens set in 8,000 acres where the Royal Family regularly spend Christmas, or Holkham Hall situated in a deer park, is just down the road and considered one of Britain’s most majestic stately homes. Binham Priory is among the most complete and impressive monastic ruins in Norfolk. Blickling Estate is a fifteenth century moated house with a rose garden, classical temple, follies and a woodland garden. Felbrigg Hall has a mixture of woods and parkland with well-marked paths.
Fun stuff for all ages
For a day away from the beach you could always have a go at the ropes course at Holkham, wander around Pensthorpe nature reserve which focuses on inspiring the next generation to enjoy wildlife (and has a brilliant adventure playground) or a camper’s favourite; crabbing off the harbour at Wells.
BeWILDerwood is a huge award winning forest of family fun and Roarr and Dinosaur Adventure is the UK’s largest dinosaur themed adventure park where you can meet the giants from the past, take part in a Scavenger Hunt, Track T-Rex, ride on our Raptor Racers, dig for fossils and follow the Dinosaur Trail.
Market days
North Norfolk is home to some of the best markets in the region, offering everything from fresh local produce to artisan crafts. Fakenham Market, held every Thursday, is one of the oldest in Norfolk. It boasts a lively mix of stalls, with a farmers’ market taking place twice a month
Nearby, Creake Abbey Farmers’ Market is a food lover’s paradise. Held on the first Saturday of each month, it features top-quality meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Docking Market, a hidden gem, takes place weekly on Wednesdays. It’s a great spot for fresh seafood, homegrown vegetables, and handmade gifts.
On the coast, Sheringham Market runs on Saturdays and Wednesdays. The town fills with local traders selling everything from plants to homewares. Over in Cromer, the Friday market brings traditional seaside charm, offering fresh crab, fish, and local delicacies.
Aylsham Farmers’ Market, held twice a month, is a fantastic place to pick up award-winning Norfolk produce. Finally, Holt’s Sunday Market blends vintage finds with artisan stalls in a charming Georgian setting. Each market has its own unique character, making them must-visits when exploring North Norfolk.
