Compared with other coast paths I rather liked the Norfolk Coast Path as there was no climbing up and down valleys with total daily ascents similar to treks in the Alps (see my experiences on the South West Coast Path), most of it is fairly flat. Secondly there were no long detours inland around some estuary or extending out onto some peninsula, only to return shortly after. Thirdly, the scenery was attractive to me, as were the birds, wild fowl and grey seals, which lazed on beaches that were remote from people.
For the first half of the coast path (starting from Hunstanton) salt marshes predominated. An unusual habitat with an austere beauty, its creeks, just muddy meanders at low tide, dissecting the flat, grey-green land beneath a wide sky. Bird life was abundant and varied, and decaying boats and rotting remains of old jetties had a curious beauty. Beyond the marshes in the distance one might see a line of light reflecting off the sea, or else a string of sand dunes.
Long sandy, beaches dominate the second half of the Coast Path, either backed by sand dunes or crumbling cliffs of earthy rock. Whereas the salt marshes were a sign of land being added, on the latter parts of the route, the sea is eroding land away. Groynes, concrete and large boulders are a perhaps futile attempt to hold the sea back. "Holiday villages", rows of white trailers, were a frequent sight on this part of the walk.
Most of the Coast Path is close to towns and villages with accommodation and food. The towns of Hunstanton, Cromer and Great Yarmouth have long been visited by tourists, although the later is more of an industrial town. In February when I visited some places were closed, especially campsites taking tents, from April there would be more choice. However, the path is suitable for walking throughout the year, with the birds and seals, varying in number and species according to the season, however it can be a little more windy in the winter months.
Waymarking is generally good, and even if you loose the exact route of the trail, it matters little as you simply follow the coast.
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