Colourful seaside town is 'just like Brighton' and perfect for a winter break

When imagining a quintessential British seaside getaway, Brighton often springs to mind. Its colourful Lanes, vibrant nightlife and the famous, bustling pier draw countless visitors, but come with the premium prices typical of such a popular city destination.

However, there's a similar coastal spot brimming with character but mercifully free from the masses. Cromer, a Victorian treasure on the Norfolk coastline, is quietly establishing itself as the more peaceful alternative. Like many British seaside resorts, the town enjoyed its heyday just before the First World War, though its popularity waned as foreign holidays became increasingly popular.

Cromer has a "vibrant Brighton feel" minus the crowds, according to travel writer Liz Hollis, who highlights that it is "increasingly home to artists, galleries and independent shops" as it draws a fresh, younger crowd.

Whilst the coastal town is well-equipped for summer with its rainbow-hued buildings overlooking sandy stretches, it proves equally attractive during the colder months, visitors report.

One guest noted that Cromer beach remains "very pretty even in winter", whilst another remembered their "enjoyable walk on a winter day". They said: "You can either walk along the beach with the cliffs above towards Sheringham or in the other direction. In the summer months, it can get too crowded for that relaxing stroll behind the cliffs."

One visitor praised Cromer as "glorious" in January, fondly recalling "winter walks along the beach, with the waves crashing on the shore".

The town's most celebrated attraction is its pier, which boasts the rare distinction of housing one of just five end-of-pier theatres nationwide and the sole venue to present a complete season of variety entertainment.

Guests can also try their hand at crabbing from the pier, a long-held coastal tradition, or explore the RNLI lifeboat station at its furthest point, paying tribute to the town's distinguished maritime legacy and its most decorated lifeboatman, Henry Blogg. Those keen to delve deeper into this history should visit the Henry Blogg Museum.

Away from the pier, Cromer provides many attractions to entetain guests. The town is a culinary haven, renowned for its sweet and succulent Cromer crab, harvested from local waters surrounding a chalk reef just offshore.

Cromer's characterful streets also feature an impressive selection of independent boutiques, coffee houses, and art galleries, offering excellent opportunities for relaxed browsing.

Travel writers at Our World for You described Cromer in their Norfolk guide as a "gem of the Norfolk coast" and "so much more than just Cromer crabs."

For historical interest and breathtaking panoramas, ascend the 160-foot tower of the 14th-century church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Norfolk's tallest, which offers sweeping views across the town and shoreline. A brisk stroll along the Norfolk Coast Path, which meanders through Cromer, is an ideal way to soak in the area's natural splendour during the autumn months of October and November, with the crisp air and dramatic skies.

The town also gets into the festive spirit with a traditional Christmas Fayre at the Parish Hall, offering local gifts and festive treats.

For a truly spectacular festive experience, the renowned Cromer Pier Christmas Show runs from mid-November to late December, bringing West End-quality variety entertainment to the coast and making it a perfect destination for a pre-Christmas or even post-Christmas getaway.

Visitors can enjoy the show, which lasts approximately two and a half hours. This year, the event runs from November 15 to December 28.