Cute coastal village with charm and iconic windmill is perfect for an autumn getaway
- UK Hidden Gems
- Nov 11
- 2 min read
A pretty coastal village on the wide north Norfolk coast has been named one of the UK’s top spots to visit this autumn, beating out favourites in Cornwall, Devon and Dorset.
The North Norfolk coastline is one of the country’s hidden treasures, recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and home to incredible wildlife and endless open skies.
With a cool sea breeze and golden leaves rustling by the shore, it’s the perfect place for an autumn escape.
One of the region’s best-kept secrets is the postcard-perfect village of Cley next the Sea, famous for its striking windmill and sweeping salt marshes.
Cley, which rhymes with “sky”, offers peace and quiet without the summer crowds. The historic Cley Windmill, overlooking the village’s traditional flint cottages and gazing out over the North Sea, is its most iconic landmark.
For an unforgettable stay, you can even book a room inside the 19th-century windmill, which has been transformed into a beautiful luxury B&B.
The village’s narrow lanes are filled with flint cottages, tiny art galleries and independent shops selling local produce, handmade crafts and artwork inspired by the Norfolk coast and countryside.
No visit to Cley is complete without trying the local seafood.
While nearby Cromer is famous for its crab, Cley’s own fish smokehouse has earned a fine reputation for its delicious smoked fish, including kippers and salmon, perfect for a hearty breakfast after a morning walk.
The village is also a dream destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Just next door is Cley Marshes Nature Reserve, one of the oldest in the country and managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust.
In autumn, the area comes alive with migrating birds, making it one of the best times to explore the hides and coastal trails in search of rare species.
Cley’s autumn beauty has even been recognised by England’s Coast, who praised it as one of the best places to visit during the season, describing the village as “extremely easy on the eye” and “a wonderful base for exploring Norfolk’s coast.”
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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