Norfolk's seaside hotels have long been a staple of the county's coastline, offering a glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the charm of bygone eras. But what do these grand old hotels look like now? From Cromer and Hunstanton to Mundesley and Great Yarmouth, Norfolk's seaside towns have undergone significant changes over the years, and these hotels are no exception. In this article, I'll take a closer look at some of the most notable seaside hotels in Norfolk and explore their current state. One of the most striking examples is the Grand Hotel in Mundesley. Built in 1897, this Victorian cliff-top hotel was designed to help transform the seaside town into a fashionable resort. It also served as a base for troops during World War II. However, it no longer trades as a hotel and is now the Grand Norfolk Holiday Apartments. Despite its conversion and years of disrepair, the Grand Hotel remains a dominant landmark on the B1159 coast road. Another notable hotel is the Cliftonville Hotel in Cromer. This seafront Art Nouveau hotel overlooking the promenade is widely seen as a charming old-style building. The hotel continues to trade, retaining much of its historic exterior character, with internal updates to cater to modern guests. The Golden Lion Hotel in Hunstanton is another classic red-brick seaside hotel. It still presents a traditional Victorian/Edwardian façade with tall sash windows, bay views, and period detailing. It retains the same look it had 28 years ago, which is quite remarkable. The Pier Hotel in Gorleston-on-Sea is another red-brick seafront building. According to the Lost Pubs Project, it was once named The Anchor and Hope, which was a Lacons pub present by 1819. It used to have a lookout tower for 'beachmen' to look out for shipping in distress before setting out to rescue the crews, before a lifeboat service existed. It also had a mortuary to store any unfortunate victims until they could be suitably dealt with. The pub was demolished by Lacons in 1897, with the Pier Hotel built on the site. Finally, the Cliff Hotel in Gorleston-on-Sea is a striking example of how these hotels have changed over time. The original 'old Cliff Hotel' on the cliffs was once a striking Victorian building, but disaster struck on Boxing Day 1915 when a devastating fire burned the hotel to the ground. The building that had dominated the area's skyline for just 17 years was reduced to a charred shell. However, the hotel stands proud again today, and in the past two years, it has seen several refurbishments and additions. These hotels, with their rich history and architecture, continue to be a significant part of Norfolk's seaside charm. But what makes them particularly fascinating is the way they have evolved over time, adapting to changing trends and needs while retaining their unique character. In my opinion, these hotels are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the seaside resort industry. They have survived the test of time, and their continued existence is a reminder of the enduring appeal of the seaside.
