Discover Heacham and the West Norfolk Coast
Heacham is a traditional seaside village on the East Coast of England overlooking The Wash, with two beaches, a small promenade and views across the water. The village has a selection of beach cottages, sea view properties and coastal holiday homes, many within walking distance of the shore. Heacham is also known for its west-facing coastline, where visitors can watch the sun set over the sea. The surrounding area has several other coastal destinations to explore, including Hunstanton, Old Hunstanton and Snettisham.
Heacham Village and Nearby Hunstanton
Heacham has a traditional village centre with shops, pubs, cafés and a number of historic buildings. St Mary’s Church dates back to the medieval period and has a memorial to Pocahontas, whose husband John Rolfe came from Heacham.
The village also has connections with Norfolk’s lavender-growing industry. Norfolk Lavender, just outside the centre, has gardens, shops and seasonal attractions.
Hunstanton is around three miles north of Heacham and has a traditional seafront with a pier, amusement arcades, restaurants and family attractions. The town is also known for its distinctive striped cliffs and sandy beach. If you’re considering a busier seaside resort, browse our selection of Hunstanton cottages by the sea.
Heacham North Beach, South Beach and Coastal Walks
Heacham has two beaches, both overlooking the sheltered waters of The Wash. North Beach is the busier of the two, with beach huts, a café, fish bar and an amusement arcade. South Beach has a quieter setting, with beach chalets and a café nearby.
Both beaches have areas of sand and shingle, with large stretches of sand exposed at low tide. The gently sloping shoreline is popular with families, although visitors should check tide times and take care around tidal mudflats.
There are public toilets and car parks at both beaches. The shoreline is also popular for walking, with routes heading north towards Hunstanton and south towards Snettisham. Heacham is particularly well known for its sunsets, as both beaches face west across The Wash.
Norfolk Lavender, Sandringham and Nearby Attractions
Norfolk Lavender is one of Heacham’s main attractions, with lavender fields, gardens and a visitor centre. The lavender is generally at its best during the summer flowering season, although opening times and activities vary throughout the year.
The Sandringham Estate is a short drive inland and has woodland walking trails, gardens and a royal residence open to visitors during selected periods. The surrounding countryside also has several small villages and local attractions.
Further south, Snettisham Beach overlooks The Wash and is known for its wildlife and wide coastal views. The nearby RSPB Snettisham reserve is popular with birdwatchers, particularly during periods when large flocks of wading birds gather along the shoreline.
For more seaside towns and beaches, explore our collection of Norfolk cottages by the sea, including properties around Brancaster, Wells-next-the-Sea, Cromer and Sheringham.
