Hunstanton is a Town in the county of Norfolk.
Hunstanton, often referred to as “Sunny Hunny”, is a distinctive seaside town located on the northwest coast of Norfolk, England. Boasting a unique east-facing beach, it offers picturesque sunsets over The Wash, a vast estuary separating Norfolk from Lincolnshire. This charming town has been a popular holiday destination for over a century, drawing visitors with its mix of natural beauty, Victorian architecture, and family-friendly attractions.
One of Hunstanton’s most striking features is its striped cliffs, which are a geological wonder composed of layers of chalk, red chalk, and carrstone. These cliffs serve as a testament to the area’s ancient past, telling tales of a time millions of years ago. The foot of these cliffs is a haven for fossil hunters, with the possibility of discovering ancient remains of sea creatures from epochs long past.
The beach itself is a vast expanse of golden sand, punctuated by rock pools at low tide. It’s a paradise for families, offering plenty of space for traditional seaside activities such as building sandcastles, flying kites, and exploring the shoreline. Water sports enthusiasts are also drawn to Hunstanton, with the consistent winds making it a hotspot for windsurfing, kite surfing, and sailing.
Away from the coastline, the town retains much of its Victorian charm. The central green, surrounded by traditional buildings, plays host to various events throughout the year. Nearby, the Esplanade Gardens provide a tranquil space to relax and take in views of the sea. The town is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a mix of local produce and international cuisine.
For those interested in the local wildlife, a trip to the nearby Sealife Sanctuary is a must. This marine rescue center not only educates visitors about the wonders of the underwater world but also plays a pivotal role in rescuing and rehabilitating sick and injured seals. Just a short drive from Hunstanton, the RSPB Titchwell Marsh is another must-visit spot for nature lovers, offering a chance to observe a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat.
In essence, Hunstanton is a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities. Its appeal to both families and nature enthusiasts alike ensures its continued popularity as one of Norfolk’s most cherished seaside destinations. Whether you’re watching the sunset over The Wash, exploring the geological wonders of the cliffs, or simply enjoying an ice cream by the sea, Hunstanton promises a memorable experience.
Hunstanton postcode: PE36 5
There are great places to visit near Hunstanton including some great historic buildings, towns, beaches, ancient sites, old mines, woodlands, country parks, airports and ruins.
The area around Hunstanton boasts some of the best historic buildings including Blickling Estate, Duke's Head Hotel, and Warehouse and Training Ship Vancouver in St Margaret's Lane.
There are a several good towns in the Hunstanton area like King's Lynn, Thetford, Great Yarmouth, Hunstanton, and Wells-next-the-Sea.
The area around Hunstanton's best beaches can be found at Heacham South Beach.
Don't miss Grimes Graves's ancient sites if visiting the area around Hunstanton.
There are a several good old mines in the area around Hunstanton like Grimes Graves.
Woodlands to visit near Hunstanton include Thetford Forest Park.
Thetford Forest Park is a great place to visit close to Hunstanton if you like country parks.
Norwich Airport is a great place to visit close to Hunstanton if you like airports.
The area around Hunstanton's best ruins can be found at St Benet's Abbey.
Hunstanton History
There are some historic monuments around Hunstanton:
Places to see near Hunstanton
History of Hunstanton
The original settlement of Hunstanton, now known as Old Hunstanton, probably gained its name from the River Hun, which runs to the coast just to the east of Old Hunstanton. It has also been opined that the name Hunstanton originated from the word “Honeystone”, a reference to the local red carr stone. The river begins in the grounds of Old Hunstanton Park which surrounds the old moated hall, the ancestral home of the Le Strange family. Old Hunstanton village is of prehistoric origin and lies near to the head of Peddars Way. In 1970, evidence of Neolithic settlement was found. The quiet character of the village remains distinct from its busy sibling and complements it with clifftop walks past a privately owned redundant lighthouse and the ruins of St Edmund’s Chapel, built in 1272.
