‘Unfashionable’ seaside village with ‘quiet beach’ and one of UK’s best places to stay

Set on an unspoilt stretch of North Norfolk coast, close to National Trust parks and nature reserves, the village of Weybourne feels like a hidden gem. It is just 30 minutes from the desirable location of Wells-next-the-Sea, which has been dubbed ‘Chelsea on Sea’ due to its influx of second home owners, and close to Sheringham, which is a bustling seaside town.

Yet Weybourne has retained its rural charm, and doesn’t attract the big tourist numbers that many nearby towns deal with. One reason why tourists might stay away is that Weybourne has been dubbed ‘unfashionable’. A about the 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK, had this to say about the area: “The fashionable stretch of the Norfolk coast begins at Thornham and ends at Cley next the Sea. The unfashionable bit — and they’re grateful for that — starts at Sheringham and goes round to Great Yarmouth.

“Between the two lies Weybourne. The former PM John Major has a second home there so this seaside village with its quiet beach should be in the unfashionable camp, but the 2024 opening of stylish restaurant with rooms the Maltings has rather changed the Weybourne identity. What on earth will the neighbours say?”

So far, the Maltings has gained largely positive reviews, with guests loving its rustic yet cosy rooms.

At the heart of the hotel is The Grain Store, a restored farm building with exposed beams and a relaxed vibe. The menu includes sharing platters of local dishes such as Houghton Hall venison and freshly-caught seafood.

Just a short stroll away is Weybourne Beach, a long stretch of shingle which tends to be much quieter than other North Norfolk beaches.

Its deep coastal shelf means there’s often strong waves, but you will occasionally see swimmers close to the shore. It’s also a popular spot for fishing.

Weybourne Beach has a hidden vibe, so it’s no wonder it was a popular spot for smugglers centuries ago.

The deep waters also led to concerns that invaders could land on the shores, and there was a local saying: “He who would all England win, should at Weybourne Hope begin.”

During WWII, Weybourne was heavily guarded with landmines and scaffolding, due to the risk of invasion.

You can learn more about the area’s military history at the village’s Muckleburgh Military Collection, which is Norfolk’s largest working museum of military vehicles. Here you can see tanks, weapons, and a huge collection of military items.

And if you want to really feel like you’ve stepped back in time, take a ride on the North Norfolk Railway. At just over 5 miles long, the railway runs from Sheringham to Holt, with a stop at Weybourne Station in the middle.

This volunteer run railway has a range of trains that run along the line, but it’s the 1920s and 30s steam trains that are especially popular with visitors.

They tend to have more services during the summer and school holidays, so check times before you go.

Visitors can book a day ticket that allows them unlimited travel between stations, so they have plenty of time to take in the countryside and coastal views.

There’s not a huge amount of facilities in Weybourne, which adds to its charm. You’ll find a small shop selling essentials, plus a couple of cafes and places to eat.

The Ship Inn is a traditional, independent pub that’s popular with locals, and sources many of the ingredients on its menu locally. Grab some takeaway fish and chips, with the fish coming in from nearby Lowestoft, or enjoy local lobster and crabs.

Staying in the village makes it easy to explore the North Norfolk coast. You’re just a 10-minute drive from Sheringham, a traditional seaside town with a beach lined with colourful beach huts. 

There’s also Cromer, which is less than 20 minutes away and famous for its Victorian pier, where you can fish for crabs or enjoy a traditional end-of-the-pier show.