Cosy coastal getaways – unwind in our North Norfolk shepherd huts

October 13, 2025 | The Victoria | 8 minute read

When the summer crowds have faded and the winds off the sea grow that bit more blustery, there’s something quietly magical about the Norfolk coastline. While we can’t promise sunshine, a cosy seaside break during the autumn or winter months can be just as appealing — think dramatic skies, almost empty beaches, and a sense of space and calm you don’t always get in summer. Our shepherd huts at The Victoria, which opened in spring 2025, offer the ideal base for a cosy getaway during the cooler seasons. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, wildlife or simply some peace, a coastal escape in the off-season might be just what you need.

Why choose North Norfolk this autumn or winter?

Fewer crowds and more breathing space
In the cooler months, you can enjoy the beach all to yourself (pretty much!). Enjoy walks along the Holkham Beach (just a few minutes’ walk from your shepherd hut at The Victoria) or the neighbouring Wells beach, with just the sound of the waves and the wind. The empty coastline is one of North Norfolk’s best-kept secrets in autumn and winter.

Better value attractions
You’ll find there’s more ease when it comes to visiting many local cafés, pubs, restaurants and attractions in the off-peak months. Whereas in summer you likely need to book, you can usually be more spontaneous in the autumn and winter (though be careful as we edge closer to Christmas!). See what the weather holds and make plans once you’re here. You’ll probably find fewer queues and more flexibility!

Pinkfoot geese in flight on the Holkham National Nature Reserve. c Andrew Bloomfield

Wildlife and seasonal skies
Autumn brings migrating birds to nearby nature reserves, like Holkham National Nature Reserve right opposite The Victoria. The grey seal pupping season also begins at Blakeney Point. Stormy skies and shifting colours on sea and land become a living canvas. The coastal light in these months is something many photographers and nature lovers treasure.

Catch a sunrise over the marshes or beach without having to get up so early! Alternatively, enjoy a sunset before being amazed by the stars on a clear night — sit back and watch it all from your shepherd hut decking. So far from large cities, the light pollution is minimal here.

Cosy, wholesome activities during your stay

Bracing coastal walks
From your shepherd hut, wander down Lady Anne’s Drive to join the Norfolk Coast Path. Head east towards Wells, Stiffkey, Blakeney and Cley or west towards Burnham Overy Staithe and Brancaster. The sands seem endless in the colder months (in a good way!). There are pit stops near the path for hot chocs and coffees to spur on the next stage of the walk, including The Lookout at Holkham (five minutes from your shepherd hut and perfect for grabbing a takeaway drink to enjoy en route), Stiffkey Stores in Stiffkey and Two Magpies Bakery in Blakeney. Be sure to wrap up warm!

Seal watching trips
Blakeney Point is just a short boat trip away — take a boat from Morston to see grey seals and their pups basking on the sandbanks or bobbing up out of the water. You’re in for a fantastic sight as this is the largest grey seal colony in England, with over 4,000 pups born each winter! As pupping season is such a popular time, we’d recommend booking in advance.

Tasty lunches and dinners
A hot lunch or dinner by the fire is the cosiest way to spend an autumn day, isn’t it!? After a day outdoors, cosy up and tuck into some delicious, warming food. You might want to cook for yourself in your shepherd hut, but you can also dine at The Victoria’s restaurant, where you’ll find a sensational seasonal menu made up of local produce and a roaring fire. And your walk back to your comfy bed and shepherd hut will take a mere moment!

Nearby towns and markets
As well as the shops on our doorstep in Holkham Village, we’d recommend visiting Wells-next-the-Sea, Holt, Burnham Market or Cromer if you love to browse independent shops, galleries and eateries. These towns stay lively in the off-peak season and so there’ll be plenty to discover and explore. Plus, they look even more beautiful once their Christmas lights are on!

Shelter from the cold by browsing the stores and cosying up in the coffee shops and cafés.

Christmas markets and lights
In late November and December, towns like Holt, Wells and Burnham Market light up with festive displays and market stalls. Plan an evening stroll through twinkling streets, then return to the warmth of your shepherd hut.

Plus, many stately homes and attractions nearby pull out all the stops and get ready to sparkle come Christmastime. Holkham Hall’s Candlelight tours just a short wander away are well worth a visit, and you could also check out the programme of events at Blickling, Felbrigg, Thursford, Pensthorpe and Sandringham.

A shepherd hut at Holkham — the perfect base for your autumn or winter escape!

Spacious stays
Some glamping options are on the small side, and if you’re bringing wellies, coats, woolly scarves, extra jumpers and one or two dogs, it’s can be a struggle to all fit in!

Our huts at The Victoria offer more than a standard shepherd hut. Bespoke-built earlier this year, they’re spacious and offer plenty of features to make life easier! There’s a dog den under the bed for your furry friends, and a luggage store under another part of the bed too. Your hut has a wardrobe for all those layers, you’ll be sleeping in a king-sized bed and cosying up on a lovely leather sofa, and the kitchen and bathroom both offer plenty of room for cooking and enjoying a nice hot shower.

After a bracing walk or boat trip, return to your cosy base where you can kick off muddy boots, cook a hot meal in your fully-fitted kitchen, and play board games, read or snuggle up and watch TV. A soft lamp-lit lounge area, a mug of your favourite hot drink, and the sound of rain or wind outside as you stay snug indoors. That’s the feel of a seaside stay with us at our shepherd huts during the autumn and winter months.

Convenient location
The shepherd huts at The Victoria are just off the coast road, giving you walkable access to Holkham Beach, Holkham Park, Holkham National Nature Reserve and Wells Beach, so you can nip out as soon as the rain or wind lets up! You’ll also be a short drive from the local towns and attractions mentioned, meaning you can get more out of your holiday and spend less time on the road.

FAQs

Is North Norfolk good in autumn?
Absolutely! The landscape is ever-changing, the skies can be dramatic, and many attractions continue running in the off-peak season. You’ll benefit from quieter spaces and often more personal service.

Will I be able to take my dog on the beach in winter?
Yes — many beaches are dog-friendly in autumn and winter, including nearby Holkham Beach. Some have seasonal restrictions, so always check local signage to be sure.

What’s the weather like on the Norfolk coast in autumn and winter?
Expect cool breezes, changeable skies, and occasional rain — but also crisp, clear days. Dressing in layers is key. And remember, Norfolk is among the drier and sunnier counties in the UK, even in winter!

Turn your coastal daydreams into reality. Book a cosy break by the beach in one of our dog-friendly shepherd huts for yourself or a romantic stay with your partner. A luxury glamping spot, a warm base near the beach, and easy access to all that North Norfolk offers make for an idyllic autumn or winter escape.

Check availability now and let the North Norfolk coastline be your playground this autumn and winter.