If you’re looking for a picturesque seaside town similar to Brighton but with a quieter, more authentic feel, this ‘gem’ on the Norfolk coast might be your dream destination
When picturing a classic British seaside getaway, Brighton often springs to mind. The vibrant Lanes, buzzing nightlife and that famous, bustling pier draw countless visitors – along with the hefty price tags typical of such popular city breaks.
However, there’s another beach destination offering similar charm but without the hordes of tourists. Cromer, a Victorian treasure on the Norfolk coast, is quietly establishing itself as the ideal, more peaceful alternative.
Like many British seaside resorts, the town enjoyed its heyday just before World War I, though its popularity waned as foreign holidays became more accessible. Cromer possesses a “vibrant Brighton feel” minus the masses, according to travel writer Liz Hollis, who highlights that it is “increasingly home to artists, galleries and independent shops” as it draws a fresh, younger crowd.
Whilst the coastal town prepares for summer with its rainbow-hued buildings overlooking sandy stretches, it remains equally attractive throughout winter, visitors report.
One holidaymaker noted that Cromer beach is “very pretty even in winter”, whilst another remembered their “enjoyable walk on a winter day”.
They said: “You can either walk along the beach with the cliffs above towards Sheringham or in the other direction. In the summer months, it can get too crowded for that relaxing stroll behind the cliffs.”
One visitor praised Cromer as “glorious” in January, fondly recalling “winter walks along the beach, with the waves crashing on the shore”.
The town’s most celebrated attraction is its pier, which boasts the rare distinction of housing one of just five end-of-pier theatres across the UK and the only one staging a complete season of variety performances, reports the Express.
Guests can also try their hand at crabbing from the pier, a beloved seaside tradition, or explore the RNLI lifeboat station at its furthest point, paying tribute to the town’s rich maritime legacy and its most decorated lifeboatman, Henry Blogg. Those keen to delve deeper into this history should visit the Henry Blogg Museum.
Away from the pier, Cromer has plenty more to offer. The town is a haven for food enthusiasts, renowned for its sweet and succulent Cromer crab, hauled from local waters around a chalk reef lying just offshore.
Cromer’s characterful streets also feature an impressive selection of independent boutiques, coffee shops, and art galleries, perfect for some relaxed browsing.
Travel writers at ‘Our World for You’ described Cromer in their Norfolk guide as a “gem of the Norfolk coast” and “so much more than just Cromer crabs.”
For a blend of heritage and breathtaking scenery, scale the 160-foot tower of the 14th-century church of St Peter and St Paul, Norfolk’s tallest, which provides sweeping views across the town and shoreline. A brisk stroll along the Norfolk Coast Path, which meanders through Cromer, is an ideal way to soak up the area’s natural splendour in October or November, with the crisp air and dramatic skies.
The town also gets into the festive spirit with a traditional Christmas Fayre at the Parish Hall, offering local gifts and yuletide goodies.
For a truly spectacular festive experience, the renowned Cromer Pier Christmas Show runs from mid-November to late December, bringing West End-calibre variety entertainment to the coast and making it a perfect destination for a pre-Christmas or even post-Christmas getaway.
Visitors can enjoy the show, which lasts roughly two and a half hours. This year, the event takes place from November 15 to December 28.