Crustacean crazy at the Cliftonville Hotel

Think Cromer and you’re probably thinking of eating or catching a majestic Cromer Crab. The association’s never been more apt than this Spring, as the town prepares for the inaugural Crab and Lobster Festival which runs from 21st and 23rd May, a seasonal celebration that’s sponsored by the Cliftonville Hotel – a beachside destination notorious for its seafood culinary excellence.

This quintessential English seaside hotel, with popular features, including the breathtaking ‘Gone with the Wind staircase,’ has earned an enviable reputation for serving tantalising seafood dishes in its Bolton’s Bistro and its Westcliffe a la Carte Restaurant. Passionate about local produce and quality dining, specialties on the menu include the Cromer Crab and locally caught lobster – two dishes which link this popular eatery to the forthcoming festival.

So what better place to use as a base to explore? With 82 6ft and 3ft crab and lobsters dotted around beautiful coastal towns Sheringham and Cromer, and each vibrant crustacean vividly decorated by a different community group or organisation, there’s so much to see.

Visitors need only pick up a trail map and take part in the unique ‘Crustacea Crawl’ – north Norfolk’s answer to Go Elephants! or Liverpool’s famous Lamb Banana.  All money raised from this shellfish-inspired festival will go to local RNLI stations and Help for Heroes, making this a worthwhile, educational and simply delicious event for the region!

Need inspiration for how to cook and prepare these local delicacies? Acclaimed chefs from the Cliftonville Hotel will also be sharing their tips and recipe ideas at cookery demonstrations from the mobile kitchen - another reason why a stay at the hotel ties in perfectly with a visit to this sensational seaside celebration.

Belinda Cammell, Cliftonville’s managing director comments: “This is a special festival for north Norfolk, one which we anticipate will attract residents and visitors, keen fishermen, families and foodies. With the whole town going crustacean crazy, it was natural that we support the event, particularly on account of our famous seafood menu. For those wanting to sample great British seafood at its very best, there really is no better place to come!”

The Cliftonville Hotel is established as one of Norfolk’s leading family-run hotels. Built in 1897, it is situated on Cromer’s seafront, a mere 500 yards from the beach and famous Cromer Pier, providing guests with the highest standard of comfort and service.

To find out more about The Cliftonville Hotel, visit cliftonvillehotel.co.uk.