5 of the happiest places in Norfolk as chosen by you

Here are five of the happiest places in Norfolk according to you.

1) Wells

Wells-Next-The-Sea was one of the towns mentioned the most by our readers (Image: Ian Burt)

With its windswept coastline, colourful beach huts and independent cafés and restaurants, Wells certainly has plenty of things to help keep locals and visitors happy. 

Wells Crab House was named Restaurant of the Year at The Food Awards England 2023 and French's recently scooped a National Fish and Chip Award. 

The beach is part of the Holkham Estate and your dogs will also be happy as they are allowed on the beach throughout the year subject to restrictions. 

Its quay becomes a hive of activity in the summer, where you can jump aboard one of the many harbour tour boats to go on the hunt for wildlife. 

2) Sea Palling

Sea Palling is a popular place to go on a sunny day (Image: Newquest)

Sea Palling has something for everyone. Whether you fancy lounging on the golden sands, seal spotting or enjoying a huge platter of fresh seafood, this corner of East Anglia is a top spot for a day trip or a longer stay.

There are plenty of parking options near the beach and a huge range of stunning walking paths along the untouched coast.

In the summer months, you can camp or pitch your caravan at Seabreeze Campsite or Keith Farm Caravan & Camping Site - but for those of us who prefer a bed, there are many hotels to pick from including Dairy Barns and Wayford Bridge Inn.

3) Cromer

Cromer is a great place to visit whatever the weather (Image: Newsquest)

A day isn't enough to see all of the things Cromer has to offer. Take a trip to see the RNLI Henry Blogg museum before it closes later this year and enjoy a meal with a view by heading to Upstairs by No 1 - which was recently named one of the best in the country.

The traditional Victorian Cromer pier has been a beloved tourist destination since its opening in 1901 and even boasts its own theatre.

It has plenty to entertain the whole family with delicious food and drink options and gift shops to find the perfect souvenir.

4) Sheringham

Lots of people enjoying Sheringham in the sunshine (Image: Danielle Booden)

The seaside town named as one of the country's best places to live has been hailed as the "sweet spot on the Norfolk coast" with a "blue flag beach and serious social scene".

Food and drink in Sheringham is fast becoming known as one of the best in north Norfolk, with plenty of new restaurants, quirky street food vendors and award-winning cafes.

Locals recently described Sheringham as a charming seaside “paradise” with a thriving high street, picturesque promenade and a traditional sense of community.

5) Gorleston 

Gorleston beach has even scooped global attention (Image: James Bass)

For those looking for a quick answer as to why so many people love Gorleston, it’s the beach.

Once named in Tripadvisor's top 15 in the whole of Europe, Gorleston beach has vast white sands, a mile-long promenade and plenty of tasty food and drink offerings.

In 2019, it provided the backdrop to the film Yesterday, directed by Danny Boyle and starring Lily James, and in 2020 it was visited by world-famous street artist Banksy.