The Norfolk Coast Path is one of England’s most scenic long-distance walking routes — stretching 84 miles along the Norfolk shoreline from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea. With its saltmarshes, sand dunes, fishing villages, and nature reserves, it’s ideal for self-guided walking holidays that combine gentle terrain, wildlife, and coastal heritage.
This is coastal walking at its gentlest — easy underfoot, but wide in feeling. With each step, you move through wind-swept habitats and villages that still hold the rhythms of fishing, farming, and tide.
Start at Hunstanton, where red and white cliffs mark the beginning of the trail. From there, the path leads east through Holme-next-the-Sea, Thornham, and Brancaster, threading between dunes, saltmarsh, and flint-built villages.
Near Burnham Overy Staithe, the trail opens to the vast skies and shifting sands of Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea— a landscape of pine woods, tidal creeks, and sweeping beach.
Further along, pass the harbours of Blakeney and Morston, where seal trips and seabirds define the pace. Through Cley-next-the-Sea, Sheringham, and Cromer, the trail shifts to low cliffs and sandy stretches, offering long sea views and links to quiet, coastal towns.
The final miles curve past Mundesley, Sea Palling, and the wide, open beaches near Winterton-on-Sea, ending at Hopton, where the trail meets the Suffolk border.
The Norfolk Coast Path is perfect for self-guided walking holidays, with B&Bs, coastal inns, and slow-travel stays dotted along the trail. Base yourself in Wells, Cley, or Cromer, or choose a quieter section for peaceful overnights close to nature.
Off the path, visit Titchwell Marsh or Cley Marshes for wildlife walks, take a boat to Blakeney Point, or explore estates like Holkham Hall and Felbrigg. There’s history in the harbours, life in the wetlands, and rhythm in the tides.
