Relive simple days with a mini break in the Victorian seaside town of Sheringham, Norfolk.
Summer may conjure up images of crammed beaches full of bucket and spades, but the traditional seaside town of Sheringham has something to please everyone, year-round.
I visited for a two-night stay. A trip to blow away the cobwebs and enjoy some fresh sea air. It was easy to spend hours walking along the pebbled beach, backed by its towering rugged cliffs. My husband and I strolled along the shore, listening to the stones gently clunking together as the waves crashed over them, while our dog took the opportunity to splash his paws. The beach is dog-friendly September to May, and the ideal time to visit if you’re looking for a couple’s getaway.
Accommodation in Sheringham
I checked into Lobster Cottage, available to rent via Crab Pot Cottages. The cottage is conveniently located a two-minute walk from the beach and High Street. Complete with a little courtyard, perfect for a morning coffee in the sunshine, the small, but well-equipped cottage is a great base for exploring this stretch of coastline.
The home offers two bedrooms; a mezzanine double bedroom and adjoining small bunkbed room. The home is probably better suited for a couple, but it has everything you need for a short break. Simply styled and with quirky nautical touches throughout, owner Sue Eyre owns a ceramics business too. You’ll notice her works dotted throughout the cottage and they are available to purchase at The Handcrafted Company in Blakeney.
Things to do in Sheringham
Once settled in your cosy abode, make your way to the beach, just a two-minute walk away. Pebbly when the tide is in, and sandy when it’s out, Sheringham beach is great for long walks. For those who prefer solid ground, the promenade is just under a mile long. It features beautiful wall art which gives a glimpse into the fascinating history of the town.
For a real insight into Sheringham’s past stop by the Mammoth Trail. The impressive artwork shows mammoths, early human settlements, giant deer and sabre-toothed cats, which once roamed the coastline. If you look closely, you might even come across a fossil on your walk. If you do, this can be handed-in to local museums for inspection. Download the Deep History Coast App to explore, capture fossils and flints and find out more about the heritage and local ambassadors, restaurant, cafes, hotels, parks and B&Bs.
The history continues with a trip to the nostalgic North Norfolk Railway, also known as The Poppy Line. Step on the platform and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time. The staff and platform are dressed in 1800s props. Hop aboard the steam train and travel to nearby Holt, known for its antique stores and tearooms. The Railways hosts a number of summer events including Dad’s Army Live, Mixed Traction Gala, Vintage Transport Day and a Beer Festival. Themed experiences are also available.
Restaurants in Sheringham
After a long walk, you’ll need to refuel. Thankfully dotted along the promenade and High Street are a number of tearooms. Watch the sea with a cup of tea from Trendies or visit Whelks Coppers, which has inside and outdoor dining and is ideal for a light bites.
Sheringham’s high street hosts modern amenities yet somehow has the sleepy vibe you might expect from a quaint seaside town. Camellia Cottage, a cobbled building with festoon lighting and Instagrammable interiors, serves up brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.
If you prefer food on the go stop by Fat Teds StrEAT Food. Open Friday to Sunday, pick up flatbreads, burgers, nachos and fries. Of course, a trip to the seaside wouldn’t be complete without fish and chips, and there’s no shortage of options. Try Seafare Fish & Chips, Dave’s Fish Bar or The Sheringham Trawler. Get your fish and chips to go, head to the beach and watch the sunset. It’s the perfect to end to a day of exploring. Finish with an ice cream for dessert from Ellie’s Ice Cream – delicious!
Places to visit
Sheringham is an ideal destination for exploring the North Norfolk Coast as it’s within easy reach of other seaside towns such as Weybourne, Blakeney and Cromer.
Drive 15 minutes to Cromer, famed for its tasty crab, Pier and Pavilion Theatre. Twenty minutes in the opposite, you’ll reach the quaint coastal villages of Blakeney and Cley-next-the-Sea. Here you can enjoy seal trips and a traditional Norfolk pubs.
