The charming coastal town of Cromer, in Norfolk, is especially renowned for its picturesque beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled on the North Norfolk coast, it offers visitors a classic British seaside experience, with its sandy beaches, historic pier and colourful beach huts. The resort is also famous for delicious Cromer Crab, and its elegant Victorian architecture and narrow streets give it a nostalgic air, while its lively markets and independent shops bring life to the town.
Cromer has a rich maritime history and plenty of stunning coastal walks nearby, along with other popular holiday spots, such as Mundesley and Sheringham.
Where to stay on a tour to Cromer
The best motorhome sites in Norfolk offer a picturesque setting for exploring a beautiful part of the country. If you’re thinking of exploring Cromer, Seacroft CAMC Campsite is a 108-pitch campsite that is home to an on-site bar/restaurant, a swimming pool and leafy green spaces, while Cromer is just a short walk away.
Another option is Woodhill Park – it’s less than two miles from the centre of Cromer, this spacious campsite offers splendid sea views, a choice of pitches and recently renovated facilities.
Alternatively, give Forest Park a go – this pretty site is two miles from Cromer and offers pitches nestled among trees, along with a pool, restaurant and shop.
What to do in Cromer on Day 1
9am – Begin with breakfast
Get your bearings by taking a leisurely wander down the charming High Street, dwarfed by the impressive Parish Church. You’ll find a few inviting cafés tucked along this street that are perfect for breakfast. Try Buttercups, or The Jetty Café, both cosy spots serving breakfast light bites or a splendid Full English.
10.30am – Stroll the Esplanade
Continuing along the High Street will bring you to Cromer’s Esplanade, overlooked by beautiful Victorian buildings and colourful houses. You’ll also find Cromer Pier, one of the few left in the world that houses a theatre. Take a turn around the historic pier before returning to the waterfront walkway and exploring Cromer’s sandy beach, which stretches west. If you’re in the mood for a brisk walk, you can get to East Runton Beach by continuing along Cromer Beach for about 20 minutes.
12.30pm – Lunchtime
There are lots of excellent lunch spots in town, but it won’t be a coastal getaway if you don’t have chips! Head to No.1 Cromer, which offers fish & chips to take away for fair weather dining, or an indoor restaurant serving seaside favourites with ocean views.
2pm – Local history
Time to dive into the area’s history, with a trip to Felbrigg Hall, an elegant National Trust property less than four miles from Cromer. Dating back to 1087, the estate is home to a fine 17th-century mansion, a walled garden and 520 acres of woods, along with a tea-room, a bookshop and a seasonally stocked gift shop.
5.30pm – A good pub dinner
Once you head back into town, you’ll probably be ready for a hearty dinner. For an extensive menu and a welcoming setting, head to The Wellington, on Garden Street, a traditional-meets-modern pub serving mains, burgers, tapas and more.
7pm – The end of the pier show
Thanks to that early dinner, you’ll have time to catch a show at the iconic Pavilion Theatre, at the end of Cromer Pier. Along with its unique three-month programme of variety shows over the summer, the Pavilion’s schedule is packed with music, comedy and much more.
What to do on Day 2
10am – Take a walk
Cromer is the perfect place for a bracing coastal walk, because the Norfolk Coast Path runs right through it. You can pick up the route from Cromer Pier and follow it all the way to Overstrand, a fishing village that was a popular destination for wealthy holidaymakers in Victorian and Edwardian times. This scenic two-mile route passes dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches and landmarks such as Cromer Lighthouse.
12.30pm – Lunch with a view
You’ve likely worked up an appetite by now, so stop off for lunch in Overstrand. Try the Cliff Top Café for a traditional lunch overlooking the sea, or carry on down Cliff Road to The White Horse Overstrand, an upscale pub offering a menu of hearty meals. Then stroll back to Cromer on the coast, or catch the CH2 Coasthopper bus.
3pm – Cultural hub
Take a short walk down New Street and you’ll find one of Cromer’s many art hubs, The Garden House Gallery & Shop. Home to stunning work from photographers and artists – many of them local – it’s well worth a visit, especially for art lovers or those in search of souvenirs.
3.30pm – Historic church
Tucked away in the town centre is Cromer Museum, a thoughtfully curated display charting the area’s past from prehistory to the present day. Later, stroll around Cromer Parish Church. With stunning stained glass, a 48m bell tower and manicured gardens, this is a famous Cromer landmark.
6pm – Bistro with a twist
Continue down Church Street to enjoy dinner at Gibson’s Bistro – traditional fare with a modern twist – or Bann Thai, serving an extensive menu of delicious Thai food in a cosy setting.
After more travel inspiration? Then how about spending 48 hours in Tobermory? It’s a destination with stunning views, a beautiful port, and a strong arts and crafts scene. Another stunning location to head to for a short tour is Keswick, a place which is full of natural beauty and an intriguing history.
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