It's famous for its pier, its beaches and its crab, and now Cromer has been named the second most in-demand seaside town in the country.

Eastern Daily Press: The historic Cromer Pier. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYThe historic Cromer Pier. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Archant)

More people have been searching for property in the north Norfolk hotspot through the website Rightmove than any other coastal spot in Britain - bar one.

Only St Ives in Cornwall attracted more searches on the property portal.

Miles Shipside, a property expert from Rightmove, said: 'The lure of a sea view and the proximity to the vibrancy of open water is a massive draw for many home movers.

'This research not only reaffirms that, but reveals buyers' favourites, too. There is a strong southern bias as sea is perhaps, in some people's minds, enjoyed more with better weather.

Eastern Daily Press: Cromer beach. Picture: Marcus Hickling.Cromer beach. Picture: Marcus Hickling. (Image: Archant)

'Other amenities and transport links are important elements too, plus a community spirit."

Cromer, known as the 'gem of the north Norfolk coast' has long been a popular holiday spot, with ever more people wanting to make the move there for good.

MORE: Tourism, second homes, and 'England in the 1960s' - what people really think of CromerAnd although buying property in Cromer remains out of reach for many, the town is, at least, much more affordable than St Ives.

According to Rightmove, the average asking price in Cromer was £223,393, compared to an average of £396,619 in St Ives.

Eastern Daily Press: Lovely view down Bond Street in Cromer. Picture: Maria BrusselLovely view down Bond Street in Cromer. Picture: Maria Brussel (Image: Archant)

Property prices in Cromer have risen 26pc over the past five years, whereas in St Ives they have risen by 29pc.

The company listed the next-most in demand seaside towns as Cowes, Penzance, Newhaven and Whitby.

Eastern Daily Press: Church Street in Cromer. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYChurch Street in Cromer. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Archant)