This bustling West Norfolk resort was purpose-built in
the Victorian era, but it's still a big attraction for families
from near and far, says Chris Bishop
Please note that the postcard from series
ended in 2004 and that descriptions of shops and services were correct at
time of going to press
Where
is it:
On the A149 around 15 miles north of King's Lynn. Or around 25
miles east of Cromer, depending which way you're coming. Actually
it wasn't anywhere at all until the late 1840s, when Henry Styleman
LeStrange decided to build model seaside resort with imposing carr-stone
houses, grand squares and a promenade - like you do.
What's the population:
Off season around 4150, according to the council. In the summer
treble that. Or that's what it feels like.
Best-known landmarks:
The wide beaches, candy-striped cliffs and the imposing green.
Or the lighthouse, the Golden Lion and the Vegas chippy.
Defining moment in history:
Coming under fire in one of the first-ever air raids, in 1915,
when a Zeppelin dropped a bomb on farmland near Victoria Avenue.
Being dropped from the Radio One Roadshow's summer itinerary probably
came close second as far as bombshells go. In recent times, the
at a seafront amusement arcade - all that remained of the town's
once-proud pier - has sparked a lively debate.
Most likely to see:
Kite surfers, bird watchers and bikers. Coach parties from the
Midlands.
Best place for a drink:
Hunstanton has a handful of pubs, ranging from the sedate and upmarket,
to the more down-to-earth. Try the Golden Lion or the Ancient Mariner
for a contemplative G&T, hit the Wash and Tope or the Marine
Bar you fancy something livelier.
And a bite to eat:
Try the home-made scotch eggs at Wendy's, at the bottom of Greevegate
- worth a visit on their own. Otherwise the pubs all do food and
there are a plethora cafes and takeaways.
The Ancient Mariner at Old Hunstanton
Any opportunities
for retail therapy:
One or two surprises actually. Fat Birds Don't Fly is probably
the biggest one - a mega mountain bikin' lifestyle emporium on Greevegate.
Elsewhere you'll find Britain's Biggest Joke Shop and a host friendly
independents, who seem to be thriving despite the recent arrival
of Tesco.
After dark:
Err, the lights go on. Not exactly the nightlife capital of the
coast, it has to be said. Those into Elvis impersonators, tribute
bands and karaoke might disagree.
Must see:
Sunsets over the sea, the famous candy cliffs and the views across
to Lincolnshire on a clear day. The Sealife Centre has an impressive
shark tank, where you walk through a tunnel with Norfolk's answer
to Jaws swimming overhead.
How to look like a local:
Go for the country casual look - think Alan Partridge on a pheasant
shoot. Carry a pair of binoculars at all times for added twitcher-cred.
Alternatively drive around the seafront car parks after dark in
a tricked Vauxhall Nova with your elbow out of the window and bangin'
hardcore playing at top volume.
