There are many ways to enjoy a great day out in Norfolk, and in the winter months, when you don’t fancy spending too long outside, a bracing walk by the coast can be just the thing to blow the cobwebs away.

The part of Norfolk’s coast I want to focus on today is Gorleston, on Norfolk’s east coast. Located a couple of mile south of Great Yarmouth, Gorleston is often forgotten about because of its bigger and louder neighbour. Although much quieter than Great Yarmouth, a walk along Gorleston promenade makes a very enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.

Free parking – always a good way to start

Parking on the cliffs at the southern end of Gorleston gets you off to a good start, because it’s free! From here you can walk down the sloped footpaths onto the promenade; the sloped nature of the walk down the cliffs also means that the promenade is easily accessible to those with mobility issues.

The large sandy beach is pet friendly year-round, so those with a dog as part of the family can happily bring their four-legged friend for a frolic in the waves. Walking along the promenade, you’ll soon come across Jay Jays café, where you can stop for a coffee or something to eat. There are clear screens around the outdoor seating area if you want to brave the fresh-air and enjoy a cup of tea looking out to sea.

Fish & chips, and ice-cream

At the end of the promenade you’ll reach a small collection of shops – an ice-cream parlour, fish and chip shop, and an amusement arcade. The 2p pushers in the amusement arcade can keep the younger children happy for ages, and all for about two pounds. I would go so far to say that the promise of some time in the amusements, followed by an ice-cream can convince the children to take a walk with you.

Just a little bit further on, you’ve got the Pier Hotel (known as the “Pub on the Pier”), the perfect place to stop for a drink, or if the walk has made you hungry, stop here for some lunch. After the Pier Hotel you’ll reach the end of the pier. From this vantage point you have some great views of the beach, and houses lined up along the cliff; and the large wind turbine just over the border in Lowestoft, Suffolk.

The whole walk is on tarmac, and is about a 2 mile round trip. Ideal for those not wanting to go too far, as well as those with walking difficulties. The Gorleston walk is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours in the east coast winter sunshine.

Article By John Ellis
www.internetaffiliation.co.uk