Holiday rentals in Winterton-on-Sea

The seaside village of Winterton-on-Sea on the Norfolk coast seduces with its vast stretches of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, pastel-coloured thatched cottages, and verdant farmland. People come here from all over to roam along the unspoilt North Sea shoreline. The grassy, golden dunes — classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — serve as a nature reserve to an array of migratory birds.

A 2.4-kilometre walking path starting on Beach Road meanders past several of the town’s historic landmarks, including the Winterton Lighthouse and Holy Trinity and All Saints Church. Many restaurants are clustered near Winterton Beach; look for freshly caught Cromer crab in season. The town’s location also makes it a great starting point for exploring Broads National Park and the city of Norwich, both nearby.

Temperatures in Winterton-on Sea remain mild year-round, with summers never getting too hot and winters never getting too cold. No matter when you visit, it’s always a good idea to bring an extra layer, as the weather can be changeable and rain can fall during any season. During weekends in the spring and summer, Holy Trinity and All Saints Church is open to the public, and you’ll want to stop by for sweeping views of the sea and countryside. In the summer months, the dunes serve as a home to migratory birds, including redwings, reed buntings, and goldcrests. The Great Yarmouth Arts Festival, which typically takes place in June, includes art exhibitions, locally produced films, stage shows, and music at St George’s Theatre, Great Yarmouth Minster, and other venues throughout town. Autumn brings cooler weather and higher levels of rain, so be sure to bring an umbrella and a good pair of shoes. Though you’ll almost never encounter ice or snow in winter, rain and the wind from the sea make it feel colder than it is, so this may be a good time to visit the area’s indoor attractions or cosy up in your rental cottage with a cup of tea.

Caister Castle

Located in West Caister, around a 10-kilometre drive south of Winterton-on-Sea, are the striking remnants of this 15th-century moated brick castle. Today, visitors can admire the ruins of the Great Tower, the moat, foundations of the inner and outer court, and parts of the outside walls. For sweeping views of the ruins and lush countryside, ascend the tower, which is 27 metres high. You’ll also be able to tour the Caister Castle Car Collection, an extensive collection of vintage and rare automobiles and motorcycles.

Horsey Beach

Horsey Beach, just north of town, boasts vast spans of sand, grassy dunes, and shallow waters. The beach is home to a colony of Atlantic grey seals, providing exciting opportunities to observe this wildlife spectacle from afar. Though you should never get too close to the animals, and access to the beach is forbidden during pupping season in winter, viewing platforms provide excellent vantage points for seal viewing throughout the year.

The Parish Church of the Holy Trinity and All Saints

The imposing 40-metre spire of the Church of the Holy Trinity and All Saints towers over Winterton-on-Sea. This architectural gem dates from the 14th century and, symbolic of the town’s fishing heritage, features a Fisherman’s Corner, as well as stained-glass windows and a well-maintained churchyard. On certain days in the summer, visitors can ascend the tower.