It is full of rich fishing heritage and boasts a lighthouse and a proud tradition of RNLI service. The town is ideally situated for exploring North Norfolk, the Broads, Norwich and beyond and we have a series of Cromer Hotels from which to make a base.
Attractions
Unlike many fishing towns in the UK, Cromer has no harbour; instead the fishing boats are pulled up onto the shingle near the old gangway. Fishermen can be seen early in the morning putting crab pots out at sea ready for the daily catch.
Dominant along the promenade is the beautiful and classic Victorian pier which houses the Pavillion Theatre at the end, along with the RNLI station.
The RNLI Henry Blogg Museum is situated close to the pier. It houses the Cromer Lifeboat H F Bailey III ON 777 as its centrepiece, which illustrates the history of the town's lifeboats and Henry Blogg's most famous rescues.
On the outskirts of Cromer, visitors can find Amazona Zoo, a South American-themed zoo covering 10 acres. Home to animals such as the jaguar, various monkeys and flamingos, families find it a fantastic day out.
Culture
Once a year every August, Cromer celebrates Carnival Week, which has been operating for just over 40 years. The carnival comprises a week-long collection of events and attractions including a float parade, duck race, dog show, a talent contest, fancy dress competition and a carnival queen competition.
Norfolk, particularly Cromer, is famous the world over for its fresh brown Cromer Crab, found in many eateries across the town. The crab has a tender and sweet meat due to its slow growth on the chalk reef just off the coast. Once a year there is a weekend-long Crab and Lobster Festival which takes place between Cromer and its neighbour, Sheringham. Historically the two towns were great rivals, but now they join together as two of Norfolk's premier seaside destinations.
Food and drink
Cromer has a wide choice of restaurants and cafés on offer but, perhaps unusually, there is not a single coffee shop chain or national eating or drinking venue to be found. Instead the town boasts cafés, bars and restaurants which are all owned and operated by locals, eager to serve both residents of Cromer and visiting guests. Sample some spectacular seafood, enjoy a romantic meal for two or enjoy munching on fish and chips on the pier – as far as food goes, there is something for everyone in Cromer.
The award-winning Red Lion Hotel sits on the coast overlooking the pier and the Blue Flag status beach. With a four-star status, a dining award from the AA and with many original features still intact, the hotel is a wonderful place to stay or enjoy a meal.