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BIG SKIES, SALTY CREEKS

AND SWEEPING SANDY BEACHES

There’s something about North Norfolk that induces instant relaxation. A playground for life’s simpler pleasures perched on England’s eastern edge, it’s a world away from modern metropolitan life.

In-the-know urban escapees have been coming here for years, enjoying the space, freedom and fresh sea air of the ‘Champagne Coast’. It’s achingly beautiful, but not in a cutesy, crowd-pulling way (yes, we mean you, Cornwall). North Norfolk is lower key than that, but no less alluring – it’s brisk walks through windswept dunes, crab fishing in uncrowded harbours, seal spotting, bird-watching and big country houses with deer roaming free through the grounds. But it’s also smart boutiques, sensational seafood and just a smattering of good, old-fashioned seaside fun.

For things to do in Norfolk, including some of its best beaches, look no further than this line-up of Harper hotspots – places and pastimes we love. We hope you will, too.

Bayfield Hall Clay Shooting

Golf

Harper Hikes

SEASIDE FUN AT CROMER

SANDRINGHAM

SEAFOOD AND SAMPHIRE

LANGHAM GLASS

COUNTRY HOUSE HOPPING

CRABBING AT WELLS

THE WINDMILL AT CLEY

SEAL TRIPS FROM MORSTON QUAY

Beach walking and kite flying

The Harper’s Getaway Guide

Coastal Adventures & Countryside Charm: The Perfect Family Weekend in North Norfolk

Beach huts. Boat trips. Buckets and spades. And crabbing – lots of crabbing. North Norfolk brings back the magic of old-school family holidays, with vast sandy beaches, unspoiled coastline, and a slower pace that’s perfect for recharging.

Arrival: Snacks & Pool Time
Check in, discover Norfolk-made treats in your room, and kick things off with a private family swim (book ahead). For dinner, stroll to our sister pub, The Langham Blue Bell, where kids can run around the garden while you relax.

Day 1: Beach Huts & High Ropes
After a hearty breakfast, head to Wells-next-the-Sea for one of England’s best-loved beaches. Rent a pastel beach hut, paddle in the sea, and enjoy a picnic or ice cream from Wells Beach Café. Stroll or drive to nearby Holkham Beach and let the kids loose on the epic dunes. Then venture into Holkham Estate for the treetop adventure course – zip lines, rope bridges, and serious family fun. Return to Harper for drinks in The Yard and a seasonal menu in Stanley’s.

Day 2: Grey Seals & Gillies
Start slow, then drive to Morston Quay for a seal-spotting boat trip to Blakeney Point, home to Europe’s largest grey seal colony. After fish and chips for lunch, walk to Blakeney for a spot of “gillying” (aka crabbing) from the quay, an essential North Norfolk tradition. End your day with a final swim and fresh dressed crab for supper.

Day 3: Zip Lines & Flamingos
Before you head home, swing by Pensthorpe Nature Reserve. Just off the A148, it’s packed with wildlife, wetlands, and family-friendly play zones—think rope bridges, underground tunnels, and even flamingos. A perfect last stop on your Norfolk escape.

Seaside Strolls & Sunset Spritz: Your Dream Girls’ Getaway to North Norfolk

This summer, escape the noise with your girlfriends for a break on Norfolk’s ‘Champagne Coast’. Think beach walks, boutique shopping, paddle boarding, spa bliss, and catch-ups over cocktails. This is your well-deserved weekend away.

Arrival: Cosmo & Catch-Up
Check in, slip into something comfortable, and kick things off with a Countryside Cosmo at The Bar. Then settle into an evening of stories and laughter over a sumptuous, seasonal menu at Stanley’s.

Day 1: Shop
After breakfast, head to the Georgian town of Holt for a morning of boutique browsing and artisan finds. Stop for lunch at The Langham Blue Bell before exploring stylish Stiffkey Stores and winding up in Wells-next-the-Sea for a coffee at Ground and a wander along the beach. Snap some hut-side selfies, then head back for a relaxed dinner at The Harper.

Day 2: Sip & Spa
Glide into the day with a paddle boarding session around Burnham Overy Staithe’s saltmarshes – calm, scenic and soul-soothing. Return for lunch, then spend the afternoon unwinding in the spa with Irene Forte treatments and your own private pool slot. Enjoy a mocktail post-massage (or something stronger later) and toast to the good life at The Bar.

Day 3: Norwich (Optional Detour)
Before heading home, consider a stop in Norwich, just 45 minutes away, for vintage treasures in the Lanes, market food stalls, or a wander down cobbled Elm Hill. A little city buzz before you hit the road.