This Norfolk village just two hours from Cambridge has plenty to offer locals and visitors, including a stunning sandy beach, an impressive castle and a racecourse
As autumn approaches, many Brits are keen to savour the last few weeks of long evenings and warm weather.
If a beach trip is on your agenda, you are going to want to make certain your final sun-soaked seaside visit of the year is special. Caister-on-Sea in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, is a destination worth exploring. It boasts miles of golden sand, but the village offers more than just its beach.
Once you’ve had your fill of sunbathing or helping the kids make sandcastles, there’s no rush to pack up the car and head straight home. Instead, you may fancy a trip to Caister Castle.
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Although the structure is largely in ruins today, a 90-foot tower still stands tall, inviting visitors to ascend to the top for a bird’s eye view of the historical site.
This 15th-century castle was ahead of its time, being one of the earliest significant buildings to use brick as the primary construction material. After delving into the intriguing history of the castle, you’ll encounter an unexpected museum collection.
You might anticipate seeing antique furniture or relics from the era when the castle was occupied by Sir John Falstof, a soldier in the Hundred Years’ War. However, the museum’s theme is somewhat unconventional, bearing no connection to the castle itself.
Caister Castle is home to an impressive private collection of motor vehicles, including the first Ford Fiesta to roll off the production line and the Lotus driven by racing legend James Lotus, who held records for most wins, pole positions, and fastest laps until his untimely death in 1968.
For those who prefer horsepower of a different kind, Great Yarmouth Racecourse is just a stone’s throw away from Caister-on-Sea. From April to October, during the racing season, you can join the 12,000-strong crowd at the three-day Eastern Festival, cheering on your favourite steeds, reports Cambridgeshire Live.
If you fancy a picnic on the beach during your visit, go ahead. But if you’re planning to eat out, you’ll find predominantly traditional seaside fare on offer.
Fish and chip shops are a common sight along the streets. Never Turn Back, a cosy family-run pub on Manor Road, serves up hearty Sunday roasts and full English breakfasts. Or you could sample one of the roasts at Castle Carvery on Norwich Road, which also features a large indoor playground to keep the little ones entertained.
Whether you’re chasing after children or cheering on horses, Caister-on-Sea could be just the ticket. And it’s an easy drive from Cambridge, taking less than two hours.