Hunstanton combines a distinctive stretch of coastline with gardens, local history and waterside activities. The striped cliffs and beach offer a different focus from the Heritage Centre or the seasonal tours. This gives you a chance to consider which aspects of the town you want to shape your trip.
Cliffs, Beach and Coastal Path
Hunstanton’s cliffs stand out for their stripes and were selected as one of the country’s 100 Great Geosites in 2014. At low tide, you can explore rock pools on the beach. If you plan this visit, time it according to the tide: low tide is essential for exploring the rock pools.
The Norfolk Coast Path also begins in Hunstanton. This gives you two different ways to experience the coast: exploring rock pools at low tide and starting out on a named coastal path. Which option you focus on depends on whether you want to take the tides into account at the beach or make the path the main focus of your plans.
Gardens and Seaside History
Hunstanton Heritage Gardens are open at all times and free to visit. From the gardens, you can enjoy a view across The Wash at sunset. The bandstand continues to be used regularly during the summer months. The garden therefore combines a view of the landscape with a seasonal aspect of local life.
The Hunstanton Heritage Centre explores how Hunstanton developed as a purpose-built Victorian seaside resort. The Centre also covers the rapid growth and changes that came with increasing tourism from the mid-19th century onwards. Visitors can also see a beach fossil collection there. The exhibition offers a historical perspective on the town, while the collection connects with the coastal landscape you can also experience when visiting the beach.
Water Activities and Seasonal Tours
Alive Oasis offers swimming lessons, general swimming and water aerobics. These are different options for activities in the water; offerings and times may change. So check the current programme before your visit. Children aged 0 to 10 or under 142 cm tall can access the Alive Adventure Soft Play attraction at the Hunstanton venue. As age limits and operating rules may change, it is advisable to check the current conditions in advance.
Searles Sea Tours depart from the central promenade. They offer tours to see local seals and along the coastal areas, and operate seasonally. If you are considering one of these tours for your trip, check the tour dates in advance. This allows you to take account of its seasonal operation without assuming it runs all year round.
Hunstanton for Your Hotel Search
Hunstanton offers different points of interest for these interests. The cliffs and beach provide a different kind of visit from the gardens and Heritage Centre; activities at Alive Oasis and the seasonal tours add other focuses to this selection.
Discover more destinations: Reepham, Mulbarton, Great Cressingham, Briston, North Wootton, Lingwood, Salthouse, Matlaske
For the main travel overview: Norfolk.
