North Norfolk is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors. From sweeping beaches and untouched nature reserves to stargazing sites and thrilling coastal adventures, this part of the world offers endless ways to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re walking the iconic coastline, spotting seals at Blakeney Point, cycling through historic estates or settling into a relaxed beach day, the region is rich with unforgettable experiences.
This guide highlights the very best outdoor activities in North Norfolk, perfect for guests staying with The Blakeney Cottage Co and ideal for planning an inspiring and adventure-filled holiday.
Coastal Walks and Trails
North Norfolk’s coastline is made for walking, with wide skies, open paths, and ever-changing views. Whether you prefer gentle harbour walks or longer coastal stretches, the routes here reward you without ever feeling rushed.
Norfolk Coast Path
The Norfolk Coast Path is one of the region’s greatest treasures, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretching from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea. Expect wide beaches, salt marshes, pinewoods, and exceptional birdlife throughout the route. Popular sections near Blakeney include:
- Morston to Blakeney Point (seal views, big skies)
- Blakeney to Cley (marsh vistas and wildlife)
- Wells to Holkham (below)
Wells-next-the-Sea to Holkham Walk
A favourite among visitors, this stunning two-mile walk links the colourful beach huts of Wells with the expansive, windswept sands of Holkham Beach. The route passes through pinewoods managed by Holkham Estate and is suitable for families, dog walkers, and casual strollers.
Burnham Overy Staithe to Holkham Dunes
Starting at Burnham Overy Staithe, this beautiful circular route winds across raised footpaths before opening into Holkham’s dramatic dune system. Expect sea lavender in summer, migrating birds in autumn and spectacular sunset views all year.
Marriott’s Way
Marriott’s Way is a historic long-distance trail that follows the track bed of two former railway lines between Norwich and Aylsham. Largely flat and well-surfaced, it’s ideal for walkers, cyclists, and anyone with an interest in Norfolk’s railway heritage. The route passes through woodland, quiet countryside, and small villages, with old stations and bridges adding a strong sense of history along the way.
Weavers’ Way
Linking the north Norfolk coast at Cromer with the east Norfolk coast at Great Yarmouth, the 61-mile Weavers’ Way crosses a wonderfully varied landscape. The trail takes in woodland, mixed farmland, river valleys, and historic market towns, reflecting the county’s long association with the weaving and textile trade. It’s a rewarding option for long-distance walkers, but also works well when explored in shorter, manageable sections.
Paston Way (Cromer to North Walsham)
Managed by the Norfolk County Council, the 22-mile Paston Way winds through the Poppyland of north-east Norfolk, connecting Cromer with North Walsham. This peaceful route passes medieval churches, pretty villages, rolling farmland and stretches of disused railway line. It’s a gentler alternative to the coast path, offering a quieter, more rural perspective on the area’s landscape and history.
Wildlife and Nature Experiences
Nature is never far away in North Norfolk, from salt marshes and dunes to woodland and heathland. You don’t have to search hard to spot birds, seals, or deer. It often feels like they find you first.
Seal Watching at Blakeney
Blakeney Point is famous for its thriving grey seal colony, one of the largest in England. Boat trips from Morston Quay offer unforgettable close-up encounters with seals basking on the sandbanks. A must-do for nature lovers and families.
Birdwatching at Cley
Cley Marshes is one of the UK’s premier birdwatching sites. With hides overlooking reedbeds and lagoons, it’s a haven for avocets, marsh harriers, spoonbills, and countless migratory species. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitor centre provides up-to-date sightings and trail information.
Deer Spotting at Holkham Park
Holkham Hall’s beautiful parkland is home to fallow and red deer, often seen grazing near the lake or moving gracefully through the woods. Early mornings are particularly magical.
Coastal Exploration Company – Boat Tours
For something immersive, consider a traditional wooden-boat adventure. The Coastal Exploration Company offers sailing, foraging and coastal discovery trips departing from Wells-next-the-Sea. These experiences provide an off-the-beaten-path perspective on North Norfolk’s maritime history and wildlife.
Dark Skies: Stargazing in North Norfolk
North Norfolk boasts some of the clearest skies in England, making it one of the top areas for stargazing.
- Kelling Heath is a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, perfect for astrophotography and meteor showers.
- Blakeney Point also offers spectacular stargazing thanks to minimal light pollution. For more on the UK’s dark sky areas: https://darkskydiscovery.org.uk.
RSPB Bird Reserves
North Norfolk is a standout destination for birdwatching, and its RSPB reserves protect some of the region’s most important habitats. From coastal marshes and reedbeds to freshwater lagoons and grazing meadows, these reserves support an incredible range of resident and migratory species. Well-maintained paths, viewing screens and hides make them accessible for beginners and seasoned birders alike, offering rewarding wildlife encounters throughout the year.
Active Adventures
For those who like to keep moving, North Norfolk offers plenty beyond walking. Cycling trails, water sports, and open spaces make it easy to turn a day outdoors into something a bit more energetic.
Cycling at Holkham and Sandringham
- Holkham Hall offers cycle hire and well-marked trails through its 3,000-acre parkland.
- Sandringham Estate provides family-friendly woodland routes, ideal for leisurely rides or more challenging loops.
Paddleboarding & Canoeing at Wells or Burnham Overy
North Norfolk’s creeks and calm channels are perfect for paddlers. Wells Harbour offers sheltered waters for beginners, while experienced paddleboarders love exploring the inlets around Burnham Overy Staithe.
Horse Riding on Holkham Beach
Holkham’s vast, open sands are famously horse-friendly. Riding here at low tide is one of the region’s most exhilarating experiences, perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.
Sheringham SUP Shack & Surfing
Sheringham’s rugged coastline provides excellent conditions for surfing and paddleboarding. The local SUP shack offers lessons, rentals and guided coastal sessions.
Hilltop Outdoor Activity Centre
Located in Sheringham, Hilltop offers high ropes, climbing walls, zip lines and adventure trails. This location is ideal for families seeking adrenaline-filled fun in a safe, well-managed setting.
Sustrans Cycle Routes
The Sustrans National Cycle Network offers scenic, largely traffic-free routes that suit all abilities. These well-marked paths take you through quiet countryside, coastal stretches and charming villages, making them ideal for relaxed family rides or longer cycling adventures. Many routes follow old railway lines or gentle lanes so you can enjoy the landscape at an easy pace without worrying about busy roads.
Beach Days and Relaxed Outdoor Time
Not every day needs a plan, and North Norfolk’s beaches are perfect for slowing things down. With space to spread out and a calmer pace than many UK resorts, it’s easy to spend hours doing very little at all.
Holkham
Regularly voted one of the best beaches in the UK, Holkham’s sweeping sands and dramatic dunes make it perfect for picnics, dog walks, volleyball, swimming, or simply soaking up the Norfolk sunshine.
Wells-next-the-Sea
Famous for its photogenic beach huts, Wells is a family favourite with calm waters, pinewoods and plenty of space to unwind. Crabbing on the quay is a classic pastime for children.
Cromer and Sheringham
Traditional seaside towns with beautiful beaches, cliff-top walks, Victorian promenades and excellent fish and chips. Cromer’s surf is ideal for beginners, and Sheringham’s rockpools provide hours of entertainment.
North Norfolk Railway Christmas Rides
The renowned Poppy Line runs festive steam train journeys from Sheringham to Holt, complete with carols, decorations, and seasonal cheer.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors in North Norfolk
North Norfolk offers an unrivalled blend of coastline, wildlife, adventure, and tranquillity, making it the perfect destination for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re discovering the Norfolk Coast Path, spotting seals at Blakeney or enjoying a sun-soaked afternoon at Holkham Beach, every day brings a new connection with nature.
Staying with The Blakeney Cottage Company places you right at the heart of these experiences, with beautifully curated holiday cottages across the region, your home base for unforgettable adventures. Browse our collection of luxury self-catering cottages and start planning your outdoor escape today.