Under An Hour From Norwich Is A Coastal Town With Fresh Seafood, A Renowned Ocean Pier, And Beachside Cliffs

While everyone knows about popular English cities like London and Bath, England is also filled with hidden gems that make for an unforgettable adventure. Take a train just three hours north of London, for example, where an idyllic seaside town known as Cromer clings to the coastline of Norfolk County. Layered with centuries of history and boasting typical seaside delights like a bustling pier and tasty seafood joints, a trip to Cromer is the perfect relaxing getaway.

Cromer calls itself "the gem of the Norfolk coast", and it's not hard to see why. Perched near rugged cliffs, Cromer looks out across the vast expanse of the North Sea. From the narrow, cobbled lanes, crowded with seaside cottages, to brick storefronts and the spired tower of Cromer Parish Church dominating the skyline, this is a quintessentially English town. Down by the waterfront, crowds of locals and tourists can be found ambling the length of Cromer Pier. Though the current structure dates to the end of the Victorian era, records show that as far back as the 14th century, a wooden pier stood on Cromer's coastline.

Sightseers can wander Cromer's high street to admire the architecture, or browse the historic exhibits at the Cromer Museum. Meanwhile, more outdoorsy travelers can sink their toes into the sand at Cromer Beach, or even sunbathe if the weather allows. Weaving through the clifftops is the Norfolk Coast Path, offering a pleasant walk with panoramas of Cromer's seaside cliffs. At the end of the day, the town's seafood spots are perfect for refueling. Being only about less than an hour by both car and train from the larger city of Norwich makes Cromer an ideal day trip destination.

While renowned travel expert Rick Steves calls the United Kingdom one of his least favorite places in Europe, a visit to Cromer might change the mind of any traveler who shares this sentiment. Stretching almost 500 feet into the North Sea is Cromer Pier, no doubt the town's main event. Built in 1901, visitors can take a leisurely stroll across the boardwalk planks, or stop to lean against the iron railings and gaze out at the coastal view.

At the end of the pier is the Pavilion Theatre, which was originally just a bandstand for entertaining some of Cromer's very first holidaymakers, more than 100 years ago. While the tourists of times gone by would have ambled along the pier to the strains of live music, modern-day visitors can head inside the 500-seat Pavilion Theater to be wowed by the Cromer Pier Summer Show, a thrilling blend of British comedy and pantomime with a dash of singing and burlesque. "For many people, it marks the arrival of summer itself," says the Norfuknews website. It's no wonder Cromer Pier has bagged accolades like "Pier of the Year" no less than three times.

Meanwhile, more outdoorsy travelers will no doubt want to spend time amidst Cromer's ancient glacial cliffs. Towering dramatically over the town's shoreline is the Cromer Ridge, a stretch of rugged headlands which were formed in the Ice Age. Just east of Cromer Pier is Overstrand Beach, where visitors can dip their toes in the sand while gazing up at the grassy cliffside. A coastal walking path atop the cliffs brings visitors to the Cromer Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Cromer Ridge stretching along the shore.

It wouldn't be a trip to the British seaside without a spot of fish and chips for dinner, and Cromer certainly delivers on this front. After wandering Cromer Pier or exploring the beachside cliffs, make your way to Mary Jane's Fish Bar, a rustic seafood shack featuring a bold blue marquee. "I can honestly say this is the best fish and chips I've ever had in my life," says a previous visitor on Google. Go for the traditional haddock or cod, or perhaps even the scampi, and make sure to add a side of mushy peas for the full experience. Previous customers have also mentioned the crispiness of the fish batter, not to mention the generous portions along with menu options even vegetarians can enjoy.

For more fresh seafood, try the Aurora Bar and Restaurant, which offers excellent views of Cromer Pier. Diners can even throw darts or play pool while waiting for their order. Get the seafood linguine with mussels and king prawns, or the oysters with a dash of Tabasco. American visitors might enjoy the familiar flavors and deliciously messy experience of the seafood boil, complete with Cajun seasoning. End your meal with a few drinks at the King's Head, a classic British pub with cozy interiors and outdoor picnic tables.

If you're traveling from London or even further away, an overnight stay in Cromer is a good idea. Right on the seafront is the Hotel de Paris, a palatial red-brick edifice dating back to the early 19th century. Another option is The Wellington, a quaint inn with an attached pub. Continue your adventures in nearby Blickling, one of the spookiest U.K. destinations for a Summerween getaway. There's also Great Yarmouth, another coastal town brimming with beach beauty and tasty eats.