Six North Norfolk beaches achieve Blue Flag status for 2026

Date published: 15th May 2026

Six beaches in North Norfolk have been awarded Blue Flag status for the 2026 bathing season from the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy. 

Cromer, East Runton, Mundesley, Sea Palling, Sheringham and West Runton have achieved Blue Flag status once again in 2026. 

Sheringham and Cromer have both held a beach award since 1988. 

The Blue Flags will be flown at each location when the lifeguard service becomes active, which means all criteria are met: 

• Cromer East Beach – 23 May to 12 September 

• Cromer West Beach – 11 July to 6 September 

• East Runton – 11 July to 6 September 

• Mundesley – 23 May to 12 September 

• Sea Palling – 23 May to 12 September  

• Sheringham East – 11 July to 6 September 

• Sheringham West – 23 May to 12 September 

• West Runton – 11 July to 6 September  

Cllr Liz Withington, portfolio holder for Communities, Leisure and Outreach, said:  

“Achieving Blue Flag status for North Norfolk’s beaches is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the dedication of local communities, environmental organisations, businesses and councils working together to protect and celebrate our coastline. 

“North Norfolk’s beaches are among our greatest natural assets - supporting tourism, wellbeing, biodiversity and our local economy. Blue Flag recognition sends a strong message that our coast is not only beautiful, but that we are committed to high environmental standards, cleanliness, safety and sustainability. 

“As someone passionate about both environmental stewardship and the importance of our coastal communities, I am incredibly proud to see North Norfolk recognised in this way. It strengthens our reputation nationally and internationally and highlights why our coastline is such a special place to live, work and visit.” 

To qualify for either Blue Flag or Seaside Award status, a beach must meet a certain set of criteria set out by Keep Britain Tidy.  
  
The assessment criteria include water quality, water safety (such as lifeguarding), cleanliness of the beach and local amenities, such as public transport and toilets.  

The Environment Agency undertake regular bathing water testing to monitor the standards and safety of the water for the public.  
  
This information can be found on the Environment Agency’s SWIMFO website.  
  
Throughout the summer season, the RNLI oversees the safety of swimmers and visitors to these beaches, providing a vital lifeguarding and first-aid service.  
  
Blue Flag and Seaside Award are international awards which are managed in Britain by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education.  

Find out more about the Blue Flag Award and the charity Keep Britain Tidy