Six beaches to explore
Norfolk’s coastline is wide, open and ever-changing — from long sandy stretches to quieter, tucked-away corners. Here are a few of our favourite spots, all within easy reach of Sheringham.
Sheringham
Perfect for early risers and children longing to get to the sea, Sheringham’s award-winning Blue Flag beach is right on your doorstep. Whether it’s a morning dip, rock-pooling or a gentle stroll along the promenade, the sea is never far away.
Wells-next-the-Sea
At low tide, Wells beach reveals long stretches of golden sand, framed by pine woods and rows of colourful beach huts. There’s space here to wander, lay down a blanket and lose track of time, with ever-changing coastal views.
Burnham Overy Staithe
This peaceful beach is known for its pale, fine sand and crystal-clear water. In warmer months, shallow tidal pools appear as the tide ebbs and flows, making it a lovely spot for paddling, exploring and quiet afternoons by the sea.
The Quay, Blakeney
A place to slow down and breathe deeply, Blakeney Quay offers saltmarsh views, wide skies and a strong sense of calm. Paddle at the water’s edge, wander along the marshes, and feel the soft mud beneath your feet, speckled with samphire.
Cromer
Lively, characterful and full of energy, Cromer’s wide beach of sand and shingle is as exhilarating on a blustery winter’s day as it is inviting in summer sunshine. Come for the sea air, stay for the classic seaside atmosphere.
Scolt Head Island
For those who enjoy a little adventure, Scolt Head Island is a wild and remote barrier island rising out of the North Sea. Reached by boat or a long walk, it rewards visitors with tumbling sand dunes, saltmarsh, and a profound sense of space and stillness.
All of these beaches are within easy reach of Cliff Cottage, making it simple to explore a different stretch of coast each day.
A connection to the coast
The north Norfolk coast has a long maritime history. Horatio Nelson, one of Britain’s most famous naval figures, was born nearby and spent time along this stretch of coastline.
Today, that connection remains part of the character of the area — a quiet reminder of the region’s deep relationship with the sea.
A short walk through Burnham Thorpe — a place full of stories, past and present.
All Saints' Church, Burnham Thorpe
All Saints’ Church in Burnham Thorpe is a peaceful and deeply evocative place to visit. The Nelson family’s roots run deep here — Horatio Nelson’s father, Edmund, was rector of the parish, and Nelson himself was baptised in this church shortly after his birth.
Nelson’s parents are buried beside the altar, which is carved from timber taken from HMS Victory, the flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar. Inside, the church feels calm and quietly reflective — with painted ceilings above and delicate naval flags suspended in the nave, a subtle reminder of the life that began here and led out to sea.
The Lord Nelson Pub
From the church, take a gentle walk through the village to The Lord Nelson, a welcoming pub with a strong connection to local history. Originally known as The Plough, it was frequented by Nelson himself.
In 1793, shortly before returning to sea, Nelson was given command of HMS Agamemnon and is said to have hosted a final meal here for the village. Following his later naval victories — particularly at the Battle of the Nile — the pub was renamed in his honour.
Today, it remains a relaxed and friendly place to stop, blending everyday village life with a rich maritime past.
Nelson's birthplace
A short walk inland brings you to the site of the old rectory where Horatio Nelson was born. The house no longer stands, but the setting — close to the River Burn — gives a sense of the quiet rural life he began with.
Nelson remained deeply connected to this place throughout his life. While serving at sea, he wrote fondly of his “dear, dear Burnham”.
A little further along, you’ll find the small ship-shaped pond he is believed to have designed in the rectory gardens — a simple but lasting link between his early years and his life on the water.
Time here is shaped by the sea — past and present.