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Located on the northern aspect of Norfolk, part of the original town now lies under the sea. In 1086, the village was known as Shipden and the middle of town lies where the cliff breaks occur. Long ago, the shoreline was lined with fishermen, merchants and flocks of sheep. The town obtained the right to hold weekly markets in 1285. By 1400, Cromer's prosperity had grown sufficient to construct the local church. The village was documented in 1565 as being a landing place with a pier and 177 houses. Even during the middle ages, it was not unusual for local merchant vessels to travel as far away as Greenland and Iceland.
Sea going trade continued until the late 1800s when transporting cargo by railway became more convenient. Many coastal towns erected lifeboat stations and Cromer was no exception. The local lifeboat station and crews became popular as they serviced much of the eastern coast. Vessels once powered by sails were eventually replaced by those equipped with steam engines.
Once a thriving cod and mackerel-fishing village, Cromer is now popular for crab and lobster fishing. During the Victorian era, the town became a favoured seaside resort. Much of the town's architecture reflects the style and taste of these early wealthy citizens.
Activities and Attractions
There is no lack of room to stroll with miles of endless beaches. Explore the lifeboat station on the pier or the natural rock pools along the cliffs. Travel across the tops of the cliffs, visit the lighthouse and golf course. The first lifeboat began rescue missions in 1805, and the RNLI Henry Blogg Museum commemorates the boats and crews that saved lives in the last 200 years. The station received dozens of medals for heroic efforts and the most decorated of crewmembers was Henry Blogg. The facility houses the boats used during the existence of the station along with a history of the volunteer crews.
Inside what appears to be a fishing cottage, the Cromer Museum recounts the tale of the fishing industry. The building also exhibits the remains of an elephant fossil and the skull of a Monsasaur, a sea creature that swam the local waters over 80 million years ago.
The local parish church is among the oldest buildings in Cromer. Constructed around 1400, the St. Peter and St. Paul Church welcomes guests daily. After years of general neglect, most of the structure required renovation, which began in the 1780s. Guests may travel to the topmost part of the tower and marvel at the stained glass contained along the length of the building.
Places to Stay and Dining
Local hotels include enchanting town centre facilities, displaying the traditional styles of the Victorian era. Rooms have amazing views that look out over the cliffs and down to the pier and fishing boats below. Hotel lounges offer open log fires and picturesque views.
The Cromer Red Lion restaurant offers traditional dishes and fresh seafood options. Freshly caught fares include cod, hake and salmon. Try a roasted fillet or a tempting platter consisting of crayfish, cod, salmon and prawns, served with coleslaw and freshly baked bread.
Accommodation in Cromer
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