Saint Peter and Saint Paul

Towering 160 feet above Cromer's rooftops, this 14th-century church dominates the Norfolk skyline like a proper landmark should. The flint tower - one of the tallest in the county - serves as a beacon for miles around, and climbing it rewards you with spectacular views across the North Sea and inland countryside. Well worth the effort, though the narrow spiral stairs aren't for anyone with dodgy knees.

Inside, the church feels surprisingly spacious for a coastal parish building. Victorian restoration has left it feeling rather polished, but the medieval bones still show through. The stained glass catches the light beautifully on sunny afternoons, and there's usually someone about who knows the local history if you're curious.

Families staying at nearby sites like Forest Park or Manor Farm will find this makes a decent rainy-day stop - kids often enjoy the tower climb, though it's not suitable for pushchairs obviously. History enthusiasts get more out of it than casual visitors, particularly if you're interested in Norfolk's maritime connections. The church has proper links to Cromer's fishing heritage, which adds context to your coastal holiday.

Allow an hour if you're doing the tower climb, half that for a quick look around. Summer opening hours stretch later, which is handy when you're fitting it around beach time. Entry appears to be free, making it a budget-friendly addition to your Cromer exploration.