10 MUST-DOS FOR A RETRO SEASIDE SUMMER

Whether you're in the East of England for a day or spending a week, these timeless activities capture the spirit of a good old-fashioned British summer by the seaside. Be sure to bring your Polaroid and beach blanket.

BEACH HUTS

Nothing says coastal nostalgia like a pastel-hued beach hut - and they're scattered all over our coastline. Feel like an A-lister and set up base for the day while watching the world go by.

With its iconic seafront and pretty pastel huts, Southwold's beach walk is picture-perfect and packed with charm or you can hire a Happy Hut along the vast sandy beach at Wells-next-the-Sea to enjoy a family day by the dunes.

CRABBING

A bucket, a line, and a bit of bacon – is that really all you need for this much fun?

Whether you're heading to the unofficial crabbing capital of Suffolk, Walberswick, or trying your luck on Blakeney Quay, these villages attract many bucket-carrying kids and grown-ups throughout the summer. Just be sure to take a snap and then put the little chaps back in the water!

ARCADES

One thing we can't guarantee is the weather, so come rain or shine, the music and lights of seaside arcades never fail.

Southwold is home to a small but charming arcade on their Victorian pier, but if you feel like trying a few more penny pushers, Hunstanton is home to a much larger arcade over three levels for all the family.

FISH & CHIPS

No trip to the coast is complete without the humble Fish & Chips! You can enjoy this classic at all of our pubs, but if you want to still feel the sea breeze while you eat, we'd recommend stopping off at The Ship, Dunwich, in particular, which is just a short walk from the beach.

On the Norfolk coast? You've got plenty of spots to choose from, but why not sneak off the Norfolk Coast Path to The Lifeboat Inn, Thornham, or The Wiveton Bell.

ICE CREAMS

We don't know about you, but it's our mission to try all the ice cream flavours this summer. From 99s served at the Dune Bar & Cafe, Le Strange Arms, to the exotic flavours at Harris & James ice cream parlour (in Southwold and Holt), it's always a favourite when you need to cool down by the sea.

SANDCASTLES

Grab a bucket and spade and unleash your inner designer; this is simply one of the most nostalgic things, in our opinion!

In need of endless space for digging and building, but not too far from Grandma back at the beach hut? Then Wells-next-the-Sea is the spot for you. If you're looking for a more peaceful place with the sand between your toes, then Holme-next-the-Sea is your match - just watch out for any golf balls as you cross the course to get to the beach!

BOAT TOURS

See the coast from a different angle as you take a boat out for an afternoon of sightseeing and expedition.

Spot seals and enjoy an informative ride around the famous Blakeney Point as you head out with Beans Boats.

For a more relaxed trip along the shoreline and through the salt marshes, Coastal Exploration Co. are ideal.

DECK CHAIRS & PARASOLS

Whether you're reading a paperback or just watching the tide roll in, a classic striped deck chair and a parasol make for the most retro of seaside set-ups. Keep an eye out as many local beaches offer them for hire, beachside shops sell them, or bring your own and channel nostalgic holiday mode.

PICNICS

A wicker basket, tartan blanket and a rain coat "just in case".

There's nothing much better than a good old-fashioned picnic. Grab some local goodies from the likes of Ali's of Weybourne or Bakers & Larners and set up camp on one of the beaches or greens to enjoy your food with a sea view.

STICKS OF ROCK

Take home a piece of the seaside!

Bright, bold, and tooth-breakingly old school, a stick of rock might not be something you would boast to the dentist about, but it's certainly a souvenir to take back home. You can find this seaside staple in Southwold's Beaches & Cream sweet shop or The Chocolate Box in Sheringham.

Whether you’re reliving your childhood holidays or introducing a new generation to the joys of the British coast, these simple pleasures are what summer's all about; just add sunshine – and maybe a pint or two from our pubs.

With credit to Visit North Norfolk for their images of sailing in Morston and rockpooling.