Hunstanton, known affectionately as “Sunny Hunny,” is one of Norfolk’s most charming seaside towns. With its unique west-facing position on the Wash, Hunstanton is famed for golden sunsets over the sea – a rare spectacle on England’s east coast. From dramatic striped cliffs to long stretches of beach and a vibrant town centre, Hunstanton offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and family-friendly attractions.
One of Hunstanton’s most iconic sights is its remarkable striped cliffs, a natural wonder created by layers of red and white chalk and carrstone. At low tide, rock pools emerge, offering hours of exploration for families and nature lovers.
Running along the beach, the town’s wooden groynes are just as distinctive – stretching out into the Wash like weathered sentinels. Originally built to help control erosion and trap sand, they now form striking silhouettes against the setting sun. Moss-covered and wave-worn, they’ve become a favourite subject for photographers, especially at golden hour when the tide flows around them in shifting patterns of light and shadow.
The town’s Victorian seafront, meanwhile, is lined with traditional amusements, cafés, and ice cream parlours. Adding to the nostalgic charm is the Hunstanton fun fair, where rides and attractions bring colour and excitement to the promenade, making it a favourite with families and visitors of all ages.
Old Hunstanton: A Step Back in Time
Just a short stroll away lies Old Hunstanton, a quieter and more traditional part of town. Here, sandy dunes, beach huts, and a slower pace invite you to enjoy the coast at its most natural. It’s also home to fascinating stories from the sea.
Wedged in the sand at Saint Edmund’s Point in Old Hunstanton are the remnants of what was once the Steam Trawler Sheraton, a small vessel with a proud history of service in both world wars.
On the night of April 23, 1947, a severe gale caused the Sheraton to break from its moorings in The Wash and drift across the sea before beaching at Old Hunstanton. The 120-tonne vessel was later broken up and stripped of its metal, but a large part of its keel, ribs, and hull remains embedded in the sand. At low tide, visitors can see the shipwreck’s skeletal frame rising from the beach — a poignant reminder of its working life, wartime service, and final resting place.
Things to See and Do
Hunstanton is as much about adventure as it is about relaxation. Visitors can enjoy:
- Sea Kayaking and Paddleboarding along the calm waters of the Wash.
- Seal-watching boat trips departing from nearby Blakeney and Morston.
- Hunstanton Cliffs Walk, perfect for photographers and geology enthusiasts.
- Norfolk Coast Path, with Hunstanton as a brilliant starting point for coastal rambles.
- The Princess Theatre, hosting year-round performances and community events.
Beyond its attractions, Hunstanton is a town of atmosphere. The lingering light of a Wash sunset turns the sea copper-gold, while seabirds wheel overhead and the tide whispers across the sands. Stories like the Sheraton add depth to the town’s character, reminding visitors that Hunstanton is not just a holiday destination, but also a place shaped by history, resilience, and the rhythm of the sea.
Getting There
Hunstanton is well connected by road and public transport, making it a straightforward trip from many parts of the country. You can easily plan your route using Google Maps for turn-by-turn directions.
If you’re arriving by train, King’s Lynn is the nearest mainline station and a hub for onward travel to the Norfolk coast. From there, regular Coasthopper buses run directly to Hunstanton, offering a convenient and picturesque journey.
