Ringstead, Hunstanton & Holme

Ringstead Downs → Hunstanton → Holme-next-the-Sea (via the beach) — one of the best varied walks in West Norfolk, moving from chalk valley, to clifftop, to seaside, to saltmarsh.

Beginning at Ringstead Downs Nature Reserve, we slip into a deep, secluded chalk valley — one of the last remaining examples of ungrazed chalk grassland in this part of Norfolk.  A dramatic, peaceful dry valley carved by glacial meltwater.  A sense of quiet enclosure before the landscape opens out toward the coast.

The path threads gently along the bottom of the valley, the chalky soil and scrub creating a wild, airy atmosphere. Birds sing from the thick hedges; you may spot roe deer slipping into the undergrowth.  Leaving the Downs, we climb gradually onto the higher farmland plateau that leads toward Hunstanton. The scenery opens dramatically to reveal big Norfolk skies, huge arable fields, and long views. A glimpse of the sea as you approach Hunstanton’s southern edges, the light grows brighter and saltier as we near the coast.

One of the highlights of the entire walk is the approach along the famous Hunstanton cliffs.  Down on the beach, the cliffs tower above us.  Striking banded red and white chalk & sandstone; Fulmars gliding on stiff wings along the cliff face; wide sea views and the taste of salt on the air.

Moving on Old Hunstanton itself offers softer dunes, marram grass, and a calmer setting than the main town.  From Old Hunstanton, we continue east along the beach toward Holme.  This stretch is wonderfully open and peaceful.

As we near Holme, the coastline becomes wilder, with fewer people and more birdlife. The landscape opens into Saltmarsh.

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