Hunstanton and Heacham

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For a traditional family holiday by the sea, Hunstanton is the perfect destination. With award winning beaches, stunning sunsets and plenty to keep the children (and adults!) amused all day you will be sure to have a fantastic time!

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Hunstanton and Heacham

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First popular with holidaymakers in the mid 19th Century, Hunstanton has a wonderful Victorian charm and a lovely family friendly atmosphere. Known by the locals as ‘Sunny Hunny’ this resort is in the unique position of being on the east coast, yet west facing so after a lovely bright day you may witness a gorgeous sunset over the sea. The beaches are excellent and kept very clean. With beautiful sandy stretches a bucket and spade is essential! Further along this stretch of coastline you will find one of the highlights of Hunstanton – its incredible red and white cliffs which stretch out for almost a mile. This part of the beach is more rugged with numerous rock pools just waiting to be explored.

Hunstanton has a great mixture of old and new attractions, with more gentle activities such as pony rides on the beach or a relaxing trip on the road train for younger children. There are exciting rides at the funfair for older children or a game of Blackbeard’s Adventure golf for some competitive family fun!

Just three miles along the coast you will find the smaller resort of Heacham. It is another great location for families with two unspoilt beaches, a range of shops and many places to eat. The village has a link to the Native American princess Pocahontas who married the Englishman John Rolfe, who was born in Heacham. Today Pocahontas is still remembered by a memorial carving in the beautiful St Mary’s Church.

Things to do

There is so much to do in and around both resorts, whether just enjoying the beaches or taking in a show at the Princess Theatre, it is a great place to visit whatever the weather. Below are just some of the many attractions on offer.

Sea Life Sanctuary

Situated on the seafront in Hunstanton, the Sea Life Sanctuary will be enjoyed by the whole family. With sharks, otter and penguin sanctuaries, a seal hospital to care for sick and injured pups, feeding demonstration and the first underwater tunnel in the UK, where better to learn about creatures of the water than on your seaside holiday!

Searles Sea Tours

Why not take to the water and experience a fascinating guided tour of the coast on one of five different Searles Sea Tours. Departing from the main Central Promenade in Hunstanton, the tours include a Seal Island tour to see these animals enjoying the Norfolk beaches and a cliff and lighthouse tour where you can really appreciate the splendour of Hunstanton’s magnificent cliffs.

Houghton Hall

The magnificent Houghton Hall is certainly worth a visit during your stay. Situated about twenty minutes inland from Hunstanton, the Hall is surrounded by acres of parkland which are home to a herd of white deer, stunning gardens, a medieval church and a museum.

Norfolk Lavender

For a real sensory treat, take a trip to Norfolk Lavender at Heacham, England’s premier lavender farm. There are guided tours available around Caley Mill and the lavender collections, plus a tea room with plenty to tempt you and a gift shop packed with wonderful lavender gifts.

Sandringham Estate

The Queen’s favourite residence, Sandringham Estate is a must visit while in the area. With guides to tell you all there is to know about the house, a gorgeous country park with tractor and trailer rides should your legs need a break and the church of Mary Magdelene, Sandringham will keep everyone entertained for hours.

Places to Stay

There are many places to stay around the two resorts including numerous excellent bed and breakfasts, hotels and gorgeous cottages. Many families enjoy staying at one of the camping and caravanning sites such as Manor Park Holiday Village where you can either hire a caravan or chalet or bring your own touring caravan. Searles Leisure Resort is another popular place to stay offering camping facilities and accommodation in lodges and holiday homes for all sizes of family.

More Information

Use the links below to help you navigate around our dedicated Norfolk Coast section.

Introduction to the Norfolk Coast

Introduction to the Norfolk Seaside

History of Seaside Holidays

Sheringham and Cromer

Great Yarmouth and Gorleston

Beaches and Sea Towns

Coastal Activities

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