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The North Norfolk seaside town of Sheringham is a great place for families, couples and solo travellers alike. Especially those with dogs! The beach with its highly decorated promenade are right next to the town, so you can enjoy a whole assortment of activities without having to travel too far.
There's so much to see and do here, from the historic seafront to the award winning art galleries and museums, multitude of independent shops and more pubs, restaurants and cafes than you could possibly ever visit - if you stayed for a month! Don't forget the colourful beach huts typical of many a seaside town.
Sheringham - Things To Do Table of Contents
East Anglia's premier heritage railway and certainly the town's most well-known tourist attraction, this railway line was built between 1882 and 1886 and ran as a commercial line until the 1950s, when it closed due to lack of passengers. Today this beautiful heritage railway operates steam trains, which depart from Sheringham station just off Station Road, Sheringham's main high street, and travels 5.25 miles through Weybourne station and on to Holt, a nearby popular Georgian town, before returning to Sheringham.
Trains run daily during the summer months and has special services at other times of the year, such as the Norfolk Lights Express. From November, the surrounding countryside is lit up with beautiful light shows, and the trains themselves are covered with different coloured lights. Various dining trains also run on selected days, offering fish and chips, a gin experience, cream teas and even the chance to solve a murder mystery! Booking is essential, check the website for full details and current prices check out : North Norfolk Railway (The Poppy Line)
The venue is located on Station Road and has been running under various different names since 1914, changing to the current name in 1960. It offers an extensive programme including comedy, drama, musicals, pantomime and children's shows. There are also monthly performances on Sunday evenings by jazz groups in The Hub, the theatre's cafe, which offers a daily assortment of home-made sandwiches, snacks and cakes. For more information on performances or the jazz evenings, visit Sheringham Little Theatre or call 01263 822347.
A great place to go for a walk along the seafront and enjoy all the artwork along the way. From murals about the area's fishing and lifeboat heritage to a 100 metre prehistoric wildlife spectacular completed by local artist David Barber. The promenade runs along the town centre and there are plenty of places where you can sit down and enjoy your lunchtime meal overlooking the sea. Sheringham beach was awarded Blue Flag status in 2021, confirming its excellent water quality and the environmental and safety measures in place. There has been a lifeboat station in Sheringham for over 180 years, and it was the first RNLI station to receive a B class Atlantic 75 lifeboat. As there is no harbour in Sheringham, the lifeboat is launched via a tractor, not something you'd see every day.
There are almost 100 beach huts dotted across the Sheringham coastline. The typically brightly coloured huts are owned by North Norfolk council and are available with or without services. They are not available for daily hire but you can hire them on a weekly basis by contacting the council here: Sheringham Beach Hut Booking
Peter Coke (pronounced Cook, 1913 - 2008) retired to North Norfolk in 1976, having already been an actor, playwright, antique dealer and reaching the rank of major during his time as a WW2 army officer. After retiring from acting in the 1960s, he moved away from his antiques business to concentrate on producing and displaying his extensive collection of shell art, which was by now much sought after after being exhibited in London. Pieces were bought by royalty and his work is even mentioned in Sir Alec Guinness' autobiography.
In 2006 the Peter Coke Shell Gallery was opened in the recently restored fishermen's sheds on West Cliff in Sheringham town. Peter had generously donated over a hundred pieces to the Sheringham and District Preservation Society (which became the Sheringham and District Society in 2011). On his death in 2008 he bequeathed even more pieces, totalling almost 200, the majority of which is on permanent display. This is the largest collection of shell art by any one person in the world, and his intricate designs are both breathtaking and unlikely to ever be matched, as the huge range of tiny colourful tropical shells are now much harder to source.
Entry is free during its Easter to October open season thanks to being staffed by volunteers, although donations are gratefully received to help with the gallery's running costs. Check the Sherigham Society website for details.
There is also a detailed article of Peter Coke's work by Selina Wilkins.
Sheringham has a rich selection of shops, nearly all independent, which we love. From card and gift shops to high end galleries there is something for everyone to get stuck into. Make sure you check out Blyth and Wrights which is a real old school hardware store, where they could find fork handles if you wanted them.
We also recommend Sheringham Collectables which has all sorts of curious stuff. On the road opposite them is a lovely antique shop. At the top of the town is a cool vintage shop on Station Approach. Sheingham is pretty small, but you just need to get out there and explore the cool shops. It’s not always open but Major Dunn Revival on Church St is a must see, even if you just window shop.
Just a mile away from Sheringham town in Upper Sheringham is the thousand acre estate called Sheringham Park. Renowned now for its display of rhododendrons and azaleas, Sheringham Park was bought by Abbot and Charlotte Upcher in 1811. They commissioned Humphry Repton to produce one of his famous 'Red Books' in 1812 as the existing farmhouse was not considered suitable for the Upchers, and Repton described Sheringham Park as his "most favourite work".
Responsible for coining the phrase 'landscape gardener', because it required dual skills of landscape painting and practical gardening, before and after sketches of the parks he designed were a key part of his Red Books.
Today, Sheringham Park is owned by the National Trust since its acquisition in 1986. Repton's design is still largely followed today, and the combination of managed tree planting, shrubbery, flowers, wildlife, and stunning views will delight whatever time of year you visit.
Parking is available in the National Trust car park just off the main A148, Holt Road at the junction with the B1157, Lodge Hill, which leads down to Upper Sheringham. Parking is free for National Trust members but otherwise it's a pay and display, check Sheringham Park's National Trust page for current prices. There's a visitor centre and a lovely cafe open at the weekends; check out their cheesy chips!
The Sheringham Arts Centre hosts regular workshops that take place throughout the year. From pottery to painting, drawing and photography, there is something for everyone.
The museum is right next to the Crown overlooking the sea. Being set back into the cliff, it is a lot bigger than it appears from the outside. There are loads of topics covered, from local history related to fishing, agriculture and of course the lifeboat collection. Located on such a rich coastline when it comes to fossils, bones and prehistoric animals there is lots to see. There are also numerous exhibits related to both World Wars.There are public events throughout the year Sheringham Museum.
This arts centre is situated on the outskirts of Sheringham near the A149 road. It hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Sheringham Library, just off the main street is exactly what you would expect from an Open Library, meaning if you are registered for Open Library you will be able to use the facilities even if from out of town. There are regular events so keep an eye out for what is on.
There are no shortage of places to eat in Sheringham, from posh restaurants to good old fish and chips by the sea.
The Robin Hood - Sheringham
The Robin Hood is a quirky pub with lots of cool antiques on all the walls. On an Thursday they do a quiz night which is fun. There are lots cask ales along with all the usual drinks. There is a restaurant area. If you like the outdoors there is large glass covered section to keep you dry.
The Crown in Sheringham
The Crown has recently (summer 2022) been extensively refurbished inside and out. There is masses of outside seating with a great view of the sea. The pub is dog friendly and serves great food. In the warmer months there is an outside bar area to get served quickly and don;t be surprised if there are casual get togethers, like moped meetups and the odd food festival.
The Two Lifeboats - Sheringham
The Two Lifeboats is a large pub at the bottom of the town. There are a number of outside tables overlooking the sea, protected by glass screens so you can enjoy the view without getting blown away on a windy day. They do a good range of food which can be eaten inside or out.
The Lobster Inn - Sheringham
The Lobster is situated close to a few of the other pubs and is of course dog friendly. There are a couple of outside covered areas. The bars are cosy and you definitely find the odd local in there. They also have accommodation on site.
The Tyneside Club - Sheringham
Strictly speaking the Tyneside Club is a private members club, but you can get day membership. There is regular live music outside with ample seating. Inside there are two bar areas, one traditional and the other with a pool table and of course a decent jukebox.
The Windham Arms - Sheringham
The Windham is pretty close to the Lobster and The Crown. With it’s smaller, more traditional rooms it’s what you would call old school. There is a pool table and music available. Live music is often held in The Windham, but you will need to check before you go.
Marmalade Bistro - Sheringham
On Church Street Marmalades Bistro is in intimate restaurant which has been serving the town for over 15 years offering classic British cuisine. Open six days a week, but you might need to book.
Chai-Yo - Sheringham
Doing eat and takeaway, Chai-Yo is a Thai restaurant with seating for 50.
Labone - Sheringham
Situated at the top of the main part of town, Labone is an award winning Indian restaurant and takeaway. Be sure not to leave it too late though as this is not your typical open late Indian.
There are loads of cafes in Sheringham to suit all tastes, party sizes and budgets. In fact there are almost too many to mention. Starting at the top of town there are Aunty Sam’s Cafe near Tesco and the Plaza Cafe. As you go down the main street you will come across places like the unusual looking Pie Man, Street Boss, the Starfish, the Cottage. There is a of course a Costa, but why not support an independent :-). Just off the main street on Church street is The Sitting Room. Have a walk up and down and see what takes your fancy.
This harbourside attraction offers scenic views of Blakeney Point and the Norfolk coast. You can also see seals up close as well as enjoy a range of activities including sea kayaking, dolphin spotting, bird watching and fishing. There are also guided walks around the reserve. Dogs are allowed on board the boats at no extra charge. However dogs must be kept on leads at all times.
Explore North Norfolk dog-friendly beaches
The Beeston Bump is a hill overlooking Sheringham that is said to be haunted by two ghosts. One is a young girl who died after falling from the top of the hill while riding her horse. Her ghost is often seen walking up the road towards the churchyard. The other is a man who committed suicide by jumping from the top of the cliff. He too haunts the area and is usually seen standing near the edge of the cliff.
The Crab and Lobster festival takes place at the end of May each year. This event is organised by the Town Council and attracts visitors from all over the world. There are stalls selling crabs, lobsters, seafood and much more. There are live music acts playing throughout the day and a funfair atmosphere.
Every year on the last Saturday of July the town hosts its annual carnival. This is an exciting time as people dress up in their finest costumes and parade through the streets. There are various events taking place including a street party, children's activities, firework display and much more.
Go to Sheringham Carnival Council Webpage for more information.
Sheringham has a few dedicated sports and leisure options. For example, whilst not at the same standard as the main golf club, but there is a putting course on Church Street ;-).
Sheringham golf club is a top level course, ranked 75th in 2022 for the top 100 courses. It has stunning views across the cliffs. Depending on what time of day you are playing you might see an historic steam train puff past. Not many courses can say that.
If keeping fit is your thing, in November 2021, The Reef was opened. A brand new gym and pool. The gym is extremely will kitted out and the pool area consists of a large pool and an adjustable depth pool. Lot’s on for kids, but check what and when.
Trains leave Norwich train station approximately hourly Monday to Saturday and take about 30 minutes each way. From London Kings Cross they take 2 hours 45 mins. A return ticket costs £25.50. From King’s Lynn they take 1 hour 15 mins. A return ticket is £15.00.
From the M11 motorway follow signs towards Great Yarmouth. At junction 24 turn left onto the A149 heading north. Follow the road round the coast passing Blakeney point and continue up the hill following signs for Sheringham. Once at the top of the hill look out for the signpost pointing right to Sheringham village. Continue straight ahead and after approx 3 miles you reach the main entrance to Sheringham. Parking is available outside the shopping area near the bus stop.
The history of Sheringham is vast, but there is a local group that meet regulary to talk about the past. One of the Sheringham History Societies may be of inteterest.
With Sheringham being based in North Norfolk it is a very popular location, but unlike Cromer nearby, it is mainly self catering / holiday cottages, but there are some other options.
The Dales Country House Hotel - Upper Sheringham
The Dales isn’t strictly in Sheringham, but rather Upper Sheringham, 1.6 miles from the town. The gardens back onto Sheringham Park. The grounds are lovely and the hotel has onsite dining.
Hooray Henrys - Sheringham
Located at the top of the town, Hooray Henrys is a B&B with 6 main rooms with good size beds, Wifi, parking and close enough for a short walk into the main par of Sheringham.
Check out our Sheringham holiday cottages section for your holiday rental
The is no specific camping in Sheringham, but there are campsites nearby in Beeston Regis. There is also a YHA with dorms and private rooms.