National Character Area 78 - Central North Norfolk : Key Characteristics

A gently undulating, sometimes flat, landscape dissected by river valleys, with the glacial landform of the Cromer Ridge and dramatic coastal cliffs providing distinctive features to the north.

Gravels, sands, chalk erratics and glacial till left behind by the retreating ice of Pleistocene glaciations, and the resulting complexity of soils, determine natural vegetation patterns.

Physically dynamic coastline of geomorphological importance, providing a main source of sediment recharge elsewhere along the coast, with internationally important Pleistocene sediment and fossil deposits exposed in eroding coastal cliffs.

Underlying chalk aquifer, small fast-flowing chalk rivers and biodiversity-rich, wide, lush river valleys with wooded valley slopes, including the internationally important chalk-fed River Wensum.

Tranquil agricultural landscape with extensive areas of arable land, dominated by cereals with break-cropping of sugar beet and oilseed rape, and some pastures along valley floors.

Ancient countryside, much of it enclosed by the 16th century, with a sporadically rationalised patchwork field system, sinuous lanes and mixed hedges with hedgerow oaks.

Relatively well-wooded landscape, with ancient oak and beech woodland and areas of conifer plantation.

Important species, maritime cliff habitats and slopes, alkaline valley fen communities and areas of remnant heathland.

Large number of 18th century estates with their associated parkland, and a great density and stylistic variety of churches, which are often prominent features of the skyline.

Coherent vernacular architecture – marked by distinctive red brick and flint buildings with pantiled roofs, much dating from the 17th and 18th centuries with some earlier timber frame – is an inherent component of the area’s character.

A mix of villages and many farmhouses within a complex minor road network, with a traditional pattern of market towns connected by main roads, the coastal holiday resorts of Cromer and Sheringham, and the city of Norwich providing a centre for cultural and economic activity.

Dense network of public rights of way including the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, with main recreational activity centred on coastal areas.