It is captivating landscape where sea and sky merge on the vast horizon - and now another section of Norfolk's coastline is set to be opened up for the enjoyment of ramblers and holidaymakers.

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The announcement of a new 18-mile signposted route between Sea Palling and Hopton will, from next year, allow walkers access to paths that previously relied on the goodwill of landowners.

It will link to an existing 25 mile Norfolk stretch of the national coastal trail from Weybourne to Sea Palling which opened last December.

The contrasting coastline will take in idyllic countryside, dramatic cliffs, rolling sand-dunes, spectacular sea views and the bright lights of Great Yarmouth's Golden Mile.

Work is also in progress on the England Coast Path between north Norfolk and Skegness which is expected to be completed by 2018.

The path will provide more opportunities for leisure and recreation and is expected to boost tourism to the East of England, which last year contributed more than £1.6b to the regional economy.

A spokesman for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the path would move back with coastal erosion securing permanent access for future generations.

Environment Secretary and South-West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss, who approved the extension to the coast path in September, said: 'We have already opened miles of coastal paths across the country which has enabled thousands of people to enjoy our spectacular coastline.

She added: 'Norfolk offers breath-taking scenery, from beautiful beaches to cliff top views, and once opened up the new Norfolk stretch, like many others across the country, will help boost local tourism and grow the rural economy.

'Most importantly the coastline also offers vital breathing space for visitors and local residents, and the new paths will offer areas around England for more people to explore or simply admire the view – something that's crucial for our health and well-being.'