North Norfolk is best explored without too much of a plan. Leave time to wander, take the coast road instead of the quickest route and stop whenever somewhere catches your eye. A few places worth exploring during your time here are listed below:
The North Norfolk coastline is one of the county’s greatest treasures. Walk beneath the cliffs at Overstrand, visit Cromer for its Victorian pier and famous crab, or head west to the wide sandy beaches of Wells-next-the-Sea and Holkham. Even at the height of summer, it’s still possible to find a quiet stretch of coastline all to yourself.
Just twenty minutes away, Holt is one of Norfolk’s most elegant market towns. Browse independent shops, galleries, antique dealers and cafés before wandering its hidden yards and Georgian streets.
Further along the coast, Blakeney, Cley-next-the-Sea and Burnham Market each have their own character and are well worth exploring.
Art has always been at the heart of The Gunton Arms. Beyond the collection you’ll discover here, Norfolk is home to some exceptional galleries and exhibition spaces. Visit Houghton Hall, where internationally renowned contemporary artists exhibit alongside one of England’s finest Palladian houses. Explore Bircham Gallery and Red Dot Gallery in Holt, or spend an afternoon at the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich, where art, architecture and landscape come together in Norman Foster’s landmark building.
Some of England’s finest country houses are within easy reach. Blickling Estate, Felbrigg Hall, Holkham Hall and Houghton Hall each offer beautiful gardens, historic interiors and parkland to explore throughout the year. For gardeners, East Ruston Old Vicarage is one of Norfolk’s hidden gems, while Sheringham Park offers wonderful walks and spectacular seasonal colour.
North Norfolk is renowned for its wildlife. Take a boat trip from Blakeney to see England’s largest grey seal colony, explore the bird reserves at Cley and Salthouse, or walk the salt marshes, where the landscape changes with every tide.
Within an hour of The Gunton Arms you’ll find the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich, the sweeping beaches at Holkham, the harbour at Wells-next-the-Sea and some of the county’s finest historic houses and gardens. Wherever you choose to go, don’t be in too much of a hurry; North Norfolk rewards those who take the scenic route.