Discover Cromer: Norfolk attractions you don’t want to miss!
Friday 18th April, 2025 by Host & Stay
Nestled along the breathtaking North Norfolk coast, Cromer is a charming seaside town with much more to offer than just its famous crabs. From historic landmarks and sandy beaches to scenic coastal walks and quirky local museums, this guide explores the very best Cromer, Norfolk attractions perfect for families, couples, dog lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
STAY IN CROMER
Cromer beach
First on our list is the beautiful Cromer beach. With its vast expanse of golden sand and shingle, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, beach games, and long walks. One of the few Blue Flag awarded beaches on the Norfolk coast, the beach meets European standards for cleanliness and water quality.
Cromer Beach is split into two main areas. You’ll find amusements, cafes, and the pier at the West Beach whereas the East Beach is much quieter. During the summer months, there are lifeguards on duty making it a great place for families to enjoy.
If you’re travelling with your dog, the beach is one of the best dog friendly attractions in the town. While some restrictions apply at the main beach in peak summer, the quieter East beach is dog friendly all year round.
Cromer pier
No list of attractions in Cromer would be complete without the famous Cromer Pier. This award-winning Victorian structure stretches into the sea and is home to the Pavilion Theatre, which hosts one of the UK’s last remaining end-of-pier variety shows. The pier also has a bistro and bar (both of which are dog friendly!) so whether you fancy breakfast, lunch, a pre-theatre dining experience, or a quick drink, you can find it here.
Families will love crabbing, grabbing an ice cream, and soaking up the views. You can purchase crabbing kits from the pier gift shop, or you could bring your own supplies (a piece of sting / fishing line, a weight, some bait and a bucket of seawater for your caught crabs). At night, the pier is lit up, creating a magical atmosphere ideal for evening strolls.
Surfing and paddleboarding
Cromer is a fantastic choice for surfing and paddleboarding! Glide Surf School offers lessons for all ages and abilities, with professional instructors and equipment available for hire. Located on the East promenade next to the pier, they offer open group, kids open group and private lessons. Whether you’re looking to catch your first wave or try stand-up paddleboarding, it’s a thrilling way to experience the sea. You can book your lesson online here – it really is that easy!
Amazona Zoo
Tucked away just a short walk from the town centre, Amazona Zoo is a popular attraction in Cromer especially for families. It focuses on animals from South America, including jaguars, monkeys, flamingos, and capybaras.
There’s also a large indoor play area (Jungle Tumbles), an outdoor adventure zone, and a lakeside cafe. This is one of the best family friendly Cromer, Norfolk attractions (especially on a cloudy or drizzly day!).
You’ll find Amazona Zoo on Hall Road (NR27 9JG) and it’s open Monday – Sunday 10am – 5pm (last entry is 3:30pm). Children under four years old go free, tickets for children aged 4-16 years old are priced at £14 and adults are £18. You can book tickets online or turn up on the day.
Cromer lighthouse and coastal walks
Cromer Lighthouse sits high on the cliffs and is part of the famous Norfolk Coast Path. Originally built in 1833, it is a wonderful part of history in Cromer. Walkers will love the Cromer Lighthouse circular walk which includes the beach, cliff and heathland. From the lighthouse, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea with wildflowers, seabirds, and chalk cliffs making for a stunning backdrop.
Dog walkers, this one’s for you too! The coastal trails on offer are great for your pups to explore.
Cromer Museum
Another piece of history in the town is Cromer Museum! Located beside the church on Tucker Street (NR27 9HB), the museum offers a deep dive into the town’s past. You can learn all about Cromer’s geology, including impressive fossils, and discover tales from its heyday as a fashionable resort. There is also a shop selling souvenirs, books, cards, and traditional games and toys.
The museum is open 10am – 4pm Monday – Friday and 12pm – 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Adults are priced at £5.30 and children aged 4 – 18 are £4.60. If you have a Norfolk Museum Pass, you’ll get free admission.
Cromer Museum is one of the quieter attractions in Cromer, perfect for a relaxed afternoon or early evening explore (you can get a twilight ticket one hour before closing for just £1.50).
The Garden House Gallery
The Garden House Gallery in Cromer showcases work by local artists and makers. From paintings to pottery, it’s a feast for the eyes and a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts.
You’ll find The Garden House Gallery on Garden Street (NR27 9HN) which is a popular thoroughfare to the pier. Located within a fisherman’s cottage, the gallery is surprisingly spacious inside with six rooms to explore. It is open 10am – 5pm Monday – Saturday and 11am – 4pm on Sundays.
If you’re looking for a relaxing stop during a day of exploring, we’d definitely recommend popping by!
Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate
Just a ten-minute drive from Cromer, Felbrigg Hall is one of the most stunning Norfolk attractions. This 17th century, National Trust property features a grand country house, beautifully landscaped gardens, a bookshop, a plant shop, a walled kitchen garden, and woodland trails.
Dogs are welcome on leads in most outdoor areas, and there’s a cafe on site for a post-walk treat. If you’re visiting in the spring or summer, the estate blooms with colour making it ideal for photography lovers and garden enthusiasts.
Admission prices for Felbrigg Hall are £16.50 for adults, £8.30 for children aged 5 – 17 and children under five years old go free. There is also a charge of £5 for cars. It’s just two miles from Cromer, off the B1436 and signposted from A148 and A140 (use the postcode: NR11 8PP). Opening hours change throughout the year so it’s best to check the website here.
North Norfolk Railway
Just 15-minutes from Cromer, you’ll find the coastal town of Sheringham where you can hop aboard the North Norfolk Railway, also known as the Poppy Line. This heritage railway offers steam train journeys through beautiful countryside between Sheringham and Holt. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time at Sheringham station as it’s home to a 1950’s waiting room, gift shop, buffet, restored signal box and children’s activity coach.
It’s a hit with both kids and nostalgic adults, making it one of the best family friendly Norfolk attractions within reach of Cromer. The North Norfolk Steam Railway also holds events during the year so it’s worth checking if there are any on during your visit. Events include the Spring Steam Gala, 1940’s weekend, Annual Beer Festival, Halloween week, and Santa Specials.
Dogs are welcome aboard too for a small fee so it’s a great option if you’re holidaying with your pup!
Seasonal events in Cromer
Cromer hosts a number of popular events throughout the year. These events showcase the best of Cromer bringing locals and tourists together. Plan your visit around one of the town’s popular seasonal events:
Cromer Carnival – Held in August, Cromer Carnival is a week of parades, music, funfair rides, and fireworks.
New Year’s Day Fireworks – Held on the pier, this is a magical way to kick off the year.
Christmas Markets – Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Norfolk and Cromer pulls out all the stops. There is a Santa’s Grotto for little ones and a bustling Christmas market where you can purchase unique gifts and festive crafts.
Stay in Cromer
You’ll be perfectly positioned to explore all of the Cromer, Norfolk attractions on offer when staying in one of our holiday lets. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, romantic retreat, family holiday, or dog friendly break, we’ll have the place for you in Cromer. Explore our collection of cosy cottages and stylish homes and start planning your getaway in Cromer today
EXPLORE OUR HOLIDAY LETS IN CROMER