Natural England has opened the latest stretch of the England Coast Path in Norfolk – 21 miles from Hopton-on-Sea to Sea Palling.
The route was officially opened in a ceremony in Great Yarmouth (21 October) by Lord Gardiner of Kimble and Natural England Chairman Andrew Sells.
The route includes three new miles of access between Horsey and Sea Palling, where walkers can enjoy a quieter section of Norfolk’s coastline, some of it for the first time. They will also be able to explore towns and villages along the way, including Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, Caister-on-Sea and Hemsby.
Natural England’s Chairman, Andrew Sells, speaking at the opening in Great Yarmouth, said:
“The England Coast Path is a fabulous legacy for our great island nation. The latest section opening here today is a wonderful showcase for Norfolk’s varied coastline, from historic towns and villages to stunning wildlife and beautiful beaches.”
This is the second stretch of the England Coast Path to open in Norfolk following the 26 miles established between Weybourne and Sea Palling in December 2014.  It also marks 30 years since the Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, from Cromer to Hunstanton, was opened.
Taken together, the paths cover 83 miles around the Norfolk coast as far as Hunstanton, creating the longest section of coast path in the east of England.
Natural England is currently establishing a 2,700-mile path around the entire English coastline by 2020 and work is already under way on over 60 per cent of the route. When completed, it will be the longest continuous coastal walking route in the world. It will also become a National Trail.