If you’re on a weekend break Norfolk, taking a walk around Cley next the Sea is a splendid way to spend a few hours. This unspoilt North Norfolk village is only a mile away from the open water, which is held back by marshes. The marshes have increased in size over the years and been transformed into a sanctu-ary for numerous birds which visit throughout the year. It is a wonderful haven for any bird watcher to visit. Walking along these marshes in the winter months can be a bracing experience, but if you are wrapped up warm with hats, scarves and gloves you can walk for miles in one of the best natural areas in Norfolk.
In the summer, the air from the sea allows you to cool down whilst you take in spec-tacular views around Cley and follow the Norfolk coastal path along to Holme next the Sea where it joins the ancient Roman route of the Peddars Way.
The first thing you notice upon entering Cley from the road or the marshes is the glo-rious picturesque 18th century windmill, sitting proud on the edge of the marshes. A photographic delight, it is a quintessential Norfolk scene and makes a fantastic shot with the windmill in the foreground. When you stay in any hotel in North Norfolk, Cley is a must visit village with a number of small shops. You can drive there but there is also public transport to the larger towns of Holt, Cromer and Sheringham.
Also in Cley you will find a delicatessen with sumptuous food for sale which you can purchase and add to your picnic when you visit the marshes. There is also St Marga-ret’s church dating back to the 13th century.
Not to be forgotten is Cley Smokehouse that has been producing freshly smoked fish and shellfish for years. If you visit any Norfolk Luxury Hotels in the region take a look at their menus and you will find some of the fantastic kippers and smoked prawns produced in Cley. Whenever you come back and stay in any North Norfolk Hotels, Cley is one of those magnetic destinations that you will be sure to return to whatever the season.