Gorleston Beach: A Classic Norfolk Seaside Escape
A charming Victorian-era sandy beach near Great Yarmouth, perfect for families, surfers, and those seeking a peaceful traditional seaside escape.
Gorleston Beach offers a charming, traditional British seaside experience with a vast, sandy 2-3 mile stretch near Great Yarmouth. Known for its clean golden sands, family-friendly atmosphere, and Victorian seaside character, it features grassy cliffs, a promenade, and amenities like a splash park and model yacht pond. Lifeguards patrol in summer, and the beach welcomes surfers, kite-flyers, and dog walkers (with seasonal restrictions). It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Great Yarmouth beaches, perfect for relaxation and seaside fun.
A brief summary to Gorleston Beach
- 62 Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR31 6EZ, GB
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit outside peak summer months for a quieter experience and easier parking.
- Dogs are allowed year-round south of the tennis courts but restricted on the main beach from May to September.
- Take advantage of the promenade benches and viewing platform for scenic bay views.
- Enjoy family-friendly amenities like the splash park and model yacht pond with children.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Norwich, take a train to Great Yarmouth (approximately 40-50 minutes). From Great Yarmouth railway station, local bus services run regularly to Gorleston Beach, with a journey time of about 15 minutes. Bus fares range from £3 to £5. Note that bus frequency may reduce on weekends and public holidays.
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Car
Driving from Great Yarmouth town center to Gorleston Beach takes about 10 minutes via local roads. Free parking is available at the beach, though spaces fill quickly during summer weekends. Some paid parking options are also nearby. Be aware that the promenade area can be busy, and parking restrictions apply during peak season.
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Taxi
Local taxi services from Great Yarmouth to Gorleston Beach typically take 10-15 minutes and cost around £8-£12. Taxis can be booked in advance or hailed locally. This option is convenient for groups or families with children or mobility needs.
Gorleston Beach location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Gorleston Beach
A Timeless Seaside Haven on the Norfolk Coast
Gorleston Beach is a quintessential Victorian-era seaside resort located just south of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Stretching approximately two to three miles along the coast, this sandy beach curves gracefully around a wide bay, offering visitors expansive golden sands and a peaceful atmosphere. Historically a fishing port, Gorleston has evolved into a tranquil retreat that retains the charm of a bygone era, providing a quieter alternative to the bustling Great Yarmouth beaches nearby.Natural Beauty and Family-Friendly Attractions
The beach is renowned for its clean, soft sand and the vast expanse revealed at low tide, ideal for building sandcastles and beach games. Grassy cliffs border the southern end, offering scenic walking paths along the Norfolk Coast Path, although these may close during bad weather for safety. A promenade just under a mile long runs alongside the beach, dotted with benches and a three-tier viewing platform, perfect for taking in panoramic views of the bay. Families will appreciate the children’s splash park, paddling pool, and a charming model yacht pond dating back to 1927.Activities and Seasonal Features
Gorleston Beach caters to a variety of interests, from surfing and bodyboarding to windsurfing and fishing. Lifeguards patrol the main beach area during the summer months, ensuring safety for swimmers and beachgoers. Dog owners can enjoy the beach year-round south of the tennis courts, though dogs are restricted from the main beach area between May and September to balance wildlife protection and family enjoyment. The beach’s gentle waves and wide open space also attract kite flyers and casual walkers.Local Amenities and Victorian Charm
The beach is supported by a range of facilities including cafes, fish and chip shops, ice cream parlors, and small amusement arcades near the promenade. Public and disabled toilets, free and paid parking options, and seating areas enhance visitor comfort. The nearby town center is just a short walk away, offering additional dining and shopping options. The area’s Victorian heritage is evident in the preserved seaside gardens and traditional architecture, contributing to the beach’s nostalgic ambiance.Environmental and Community Aspects
Gorleston Beach is part of a protected coastal environment with efforts to maintain its cleanliness and natural beauty. The beach supports local wildlife habitats and is managed to balance tourism with conservation. Community events and seasonal activities often take place here, strengthening the bond between residents and visitors. The beach’s accessibility and family-friendly design make it a valued recreational resource for the region.Why Choose Gorleston Beach?
Visitors seeking a classic English seaside experience with modern comforts will find Gorleston Beach an ideal destination. Its combination of natural beauty, historical character, and recreational opportunities offers something for all ages. Whether you’re building sandcastles, surfing, or simply enjoying the tranquil views from the promenade, Gorleston Beach provides a memorable coastal escape with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
War Memorial
4.5 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Pudding tower
4.9 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
Potter Heigham bridge
19.1 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
TourNorfolk
26.2 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Under The Pier Show Southwold Pier
26.3 km
Experience the magic of nostalgia and seaside fun at Under The Pier Show in Southwold, where unique amusements await every visitor.
Southwold Pier
26.3 km
Discover the enchanting Southwold Pier, a charming seaside destination filled with fun, food, and stunning coastal views.
SOUTHWOLD OLD DRILL HALL
26.4 km
Historic Edwardian drill hall in Southwold, blending military heritage with vibrant community life.
Southwold Beach
26.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Southwold Beach, a quintessential British seaside destination with vibrant beach huts, stunning views, and charming attractions.
Southwold Lighthouse
26.7 km
Discover the historical Southwold Lighthouse, a maritime landmark offering stunning views and a rich cultural experience on the English coast.
Southwold Museum
26.7 km
Explore the captivating heritage of Southwold at the Southwold Museum, a treasure trove of local history and culture.
Museum of the Broads
26.8 km
Explore the rich heritage and ecology of the Broads at the Museum of the Broads, where history meets nature in a captivating setting.
Southwold Sailors' Reading Room
26.9 km
Explore the maritime heritage and rich history at Southwold Sailors' Reading Room, a unique maritime museum along the breathtaking Suffolk coast.
Barton House Railway
27.0 km
Discover the magic of miniature railways at Barton House Railway, a charming museum and attraction in Wroxham, Norwich, perfect for families and railway enthusiasts.
Southwold Cannons
27.3 km
Historic 18-pound cannons on Gun Hill offering panoramic sea views and a glimpse into Southwold's maritime heritage.
Wroxham Bridge
27.3 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gorleston
0.6 km
Historic fishing port turned beloved seaside resort with sandy beaches, Edwardian charm, and vibrant coastal leisure south of Great Yarmouth.
Gorleston-on-Sea Lighthouse
0.8 km
Historic 1887 red brick lighthouse guiding vessels at the mouth of the River Yare in charming Gorleston-on-Sea.
Priory Gardens
1.9 km
A peaceful, historic garden in the heart of Gorleston-on-Sea, perfect for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or a moment of calm by the sea.
Nelson's Monument
2.6 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson in Great Yarmouth, offering historic insights and panoramic views from its 217-step ascent.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
3.2 km
Historic seaside amusement park with thrilling rides, family fun, and classic British beachside charm on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile.
4D Cinema
3.3 km
Dive into an immersive 4D cinematic adventure blending thrilling visuals with sensory effects at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach.
Great Yarmouth South Beach
3.4 km
A classic sandy beach in Great Yarmouth offering family fun, seaside views, and easy access to Pleasure Beach and the new outer harbour.
Pleasure Beach Mining Company
3.6 km
Discover hidden treasures and family fun at the interactive Pleasure Beach Mining Company in Great Yarmouth’s charming Pleasure Beach Gardens.
Grand Prix
3.6 km
Family-friendly seaside fun with mini golf, kids’ driving tracks, and unique attractions in a relaxed garden setting by Great Yarmouth’s coast.
Pleasure Beach Gardens
3.6 km
Free seaside fun with quirky attractions, family rides, and award-winning tearooms—a relaxed alternative to the main park.
Learners’ Driving School (Kids’ coin-operated cars)
3.6 km
Where young drivers take the wheel in a safe, fun seaside setting.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
3.6 km
Step into a topsy-turvy world where ceilings become floors and fun defies gravity at Great Yarmouth’s unique Upside Down House.
Merrivale Model Village
3.7 km
Explore over an acre of enchanting miniature English countryside with handcrafted models, garden railway, and family fun on Great Yarmouth’s seafront.
Winter Gardens
3.8 km
Historic Victorian Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, undergoing a major restoration to become a sustainable seaside cultural landmark by 2028.
SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
3.9 km
Dive into the vibrant marine world of SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth, where sharks, penguins, and interactive exhibits await on the Norfolk coast.
Essential places to dine
Muse Restaurant
0.6 km
Elegant coastal dining with Art Deco charm, attentive service, and expertly crafted dishes in Gorleston-on-Sea.
Olive Garden
1.8 km
Experience authentic Greek and Cypriot cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a warm Mediterranean setting in Gorleston-on-Sea.
Great Yarmouth Seafront Beefeater
2.9 km
Family-friendly Beefeater on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile serving hearty grills and British classics with beach views.
Joker's Diner
3.3 km
Joker's Diner serves up hearty British breakfasts and comfort food with fresh ingredients and friendly service in Great Yarmouth.
Burgh Hall
3.9 km
Discover Burgh Hall: A charming grill offering delicious grilled dishes in the scenic setting of Burgh Castle near Great Yarmouth.
HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
4.0 km
Classic British fish restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending tradition with modern flavors in a friendly seaside setting.
Zaks Yankee Traveller
4.4 km
Experience vibrant American dining with huge portions, diverse vegan options, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Quayside Plaza
4.4 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with charming waterfront views and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s South Quay.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
4.6 km
A cozy, award-winning Italian gem in Great Yarmouth serving fresh, homemade dishes with warm, attentive service and inclusive menus.
Metropole Restaurant
4.6 km
Classic British comfort food served with friendly warmth on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Ocean Spray
4.6 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with stunning sea views on Great Yarmouth’s iconic Marine Parade.
JAN Restaurant
4.6 km
Award-winning fine dining in an intimate art deco setting overlooking Great Yarmouth’s iconic seafront.
Othello
4.6 km
A cozy Mediterranean and seafood restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending vibrant flavors with warm hospitality.
Alexandra Restaurant
4.7 km
A warm, family-run restaurant in Great Yarmouth serving traditional English and Mediterranean homemade dishes with attentive service.
Chico's Restaurant
4.7 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with warm hospitality on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant seafront.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
What Is Hip
1.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares at What Is Hip, a beloved retro clothing shop in the heart of Gorleston-on-Sea.
The Loft Emporium
3.0 km
Discover unique treasures and hidden gems at The Loft Emporium, Great Yarmouth’s charming shopping centre for eclectic finds.
Aurora Gift Store
3.6 km
Discover charming gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Great Yarmouth at Aurora Gift Store, your local stop for unique keepsakes.
Picnic Patch
3.8 km
Discover timeless retro fashion and unique vintage treasures at Picnic Patch, Great Yarmouth’s charming vintage clothing boutique.
Gift Emporium
3.8 km
Discover unique maritime-inspired gifts and authentic local crafts at Great Yarmouth’s charming Gift Emporium by Wellington Pier.
Life's A Beach
4.2 km
Charming seaside gift shop on Marine Parade offering beach-themed souvenirs and a taste of Great Yarmouth’s coastal spirit.
Ferailles Shop - (Knot Just A Furniture Shop!) - Great Yarmouth
4.5 km
Discover Ferailles Shop in Great Yarmouth – a treasure trove of antiques, art, and unique fashion accessories that tell timeless stories.
Mermaid Quay
4.5 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s historic seaside town.
Crown Stores
4.5 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Great Yarmouth, open daily with a wide range of essentials and long hours for your convenience.
Grasshopper
4.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Grasshopper, Great Yarmouth’s charming gift shop on King Street.
R&D Crafts
4.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry in the charming Victoria Arcade of Great Yarmouth.
Cauldron37
4.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Cauldron37, a cozy boutique in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Regent Street.
Craftmania
4.7 km
A welcoming craft shop in Great Yarmouth offering quality supplies, expert advice, and a vibrant creative community.
Martyns Walk Round Store
4.7 km
A quirky Great Yarmouth gift shop with a gothic and fantasy twist, perfect for unique alternative gifts and spooky collectibles.
Steve's 'n' Mix
4.7 km
Traditional British sweet shop preserving seaside nostalgia on Great Yarmouth's Regent Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The William Adams
1.7 km
A vibrant coastal pub honoring Gorleston’s lifesaving hero with great food, real ales, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Rumbold Arms
3.5 km
A friendly, family-oriented pub in Great Yarmouth known for hearty home-cooked meals, lively community spirit, and a spacious garden with play area.
The Red Herring
4.0 km
A cozy, traditional Great Yarmouth pub offering quality ales, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Alexandra Freehouse
4.0 km
A lively family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Marine
4.1 km
A lively beachfront pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth, blending traditional charm with vibrant entertainment and family-friendly dining.
The Blue Oyster
4.3 km
A lively Great Yarmouth bar blending expertly crafted cocktails, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a vibrant social setting.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
4.4 km
A vibrant rock-themed pub in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and extended late-night hours in the heart of town.
The Landmark
4.4 km
A lively seafront pub with family-friendly play area, freshly grilled meals, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Merlin’s Sports Bar
4.5 km
A vibrant sports bar in Great Yarmouth offering live games, pool, snooker, and a lively social scene with sea views and great drinks.
Uptown Bar
4.5 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere and good ales in a casual, welcoming setting.
Peggotys Lounge
4.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Peggotys Lounge, Great Yarmouth’s lively pub and restaurant hotspot.
The Empire
4.6 km
A vibrant Great Yarmouth landmark blending live music, street food, craft beer, and community spirit on the iconic Marine Parade.
In The Mix
4.6 km
Chic cocktail bar and dessert haven on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending stylish vibes with expertly crafted drinks and sweet treats.
The Great Eastern Party Bar
4.6 km
A lively Great Yarmouth hotspot blending live music, karaoke, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out in a vibrant social setting.
Troll Cart Wetherspoons Great Yarmouth
4.7 km
Lively Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth offering affordable British fare, comfy rooms, and a friendly atmosphere near the seafront.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
2.3 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Buddha Club
4.3 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
4.3 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Fallen Angels
4.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
The Bermuda Club
14.3 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
26.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
St Edmund's Hall
26.6 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club
26.8 km
Experience the local social scene at Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club, where community spirit and friendly faces await.
Southwold Cricket Club
26.8 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
Loft Nightclub
29.9 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Popworld - Norwich
29.9 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
30.0 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mojo's
30.0 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Mantra
30.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
30.0 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
