From finger-licking food & thrills at the pier’s theatre – Cromer has it all
FROM our huge bay window, we gazed out towards the slowly lapping waves of the picturesque North Sea.
Beach lovers were soaking up the last of the day’s sunshine and parents were playing pitch and putt with their excited children.
We’d just arrived at The Clintonville Hotel in the idyllic town of Cromer on the Norfolk coast — a seaside resort full of independent shops, a breathtaking Parish church and all the classic beach attractions.
What’s really stand-out about this pretty town, though, is its pier.
Crowned Britain’s best in 2015, it’s one of only five in the UK with a functioning — and flourishing — theatre which also has a unique end-of-the-pier show.
With its stunning coastal backdrop, it was the perfect start to an evening filled with laughter, music and exceptional performances.
The night kicked off with a bang, as comedian Phil Reid took to the stage with witty humour, followed by some excellent music performances.
The talent didn’t end there, though, as the show had everything from high-energy dancers to aerial acts, which included an impressive, sky-high routine by Duo Distanza.
The North Norfolk Cromer Pier Show boasted all the qualities of a West End performance — colourful costumes, a jaw-dropping eight- metre video wall and impressive special effects that had us all clapping and cheering.
After a standing ovation, the quiet of our room at the Cliftonville Hotel was very welcome, along with the panoramic sea views.
If that wasn’t enough tranquillity, there was even a free-standing bathtub and a plush seating area that made an ideal spot for taking in the scenery.
This elegant Edwardian hotel, which has been welcoming guests since 1897, seamlessly blends old and new together through its beautifully refurbished boutique rooms and original architecture.
It’s also a great spot for breakfast or dinner or simply to enjoy a glass of vino on the stunning sun terrace that overlooks the ocean.
But it would have been a shame not to wander out to sample some other local delicacies on offer, especially when Cromer is famous for its crab.
The coastal town’s fascinating history dates back centuries and its famous brown crab is used in some of the UK’s finest restaurants.
It’s their habitat on the chalk reef, in the clean and unmuddied waters, which gives them a rich and sweeter flavour.
Keen to try this famous delight, we headed straight for Tide bistro which serves it as a delicious salad with herby new potatoes and a fennel slaw.
The fish and chips is equally great, if you aren’t a fan of crab, dished up with a generous helping of minty peas and chunky chips.
Make sure to eat outside on a good day — the rippling sea spanning the length of the horizon was the icing on the cake for us.
Maybe it’s time for round two at the Pier Show?
GO: Cromer
STAYING THERE: One night’s B&B at the Cliftonville Hotel is from £79 for two people.
See thecliftonville.com.
OUT & ABOUT: The North Norfolk Cromer Pier Show is from £15pp for front row seats.
See cromerpier.co.uk.