Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the gentle rhythm of Norfolk life aboard the Coastliner 34. Operated by Lynx, this essential route connects the historic maritime town of King’s Lynn to the sunny, striped cliffs of Hunstanton.
Whether you are a local looking for a relaxed day out or a visitor eager to explore the English countryside without a car, the Coastliner 34 offers a window into a world of rolling fields, royal heritage, and sweeping coastal vistas. It’s more than just a bus ride; it’s your ticket to the hidden gems of West Norfolk.
What makes this route special
The Coastliner 34 stands out because it perfectly bridges the gap between urban history and seaside serenity. Unlike the express routes that rush to the finish line, the 34 serves the charming villages that form the backbone of this community.
It is a route of contrasts. You start in a medieval trading port, wind your way through villages built of distinctive Norfolk carrstone (the “gingerbread” stone), pass fields fragrant with lavender, and finish with an ice cream on the beach. It’s a route that invites you to slow down, hop off, and explore at your own pace.
A journey through West Norfolk
The route begins at the heart of King’s Lynn. Before you board at the Transport Interchange, take a moment to admire the town’s Hanseatic heritage. The bus winds out of town, passing the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, before the urban landscape gives way to the open skies of the countryside.
Village charm: Dersingham and Ingoldisthorpe
Your first major port of call is Dersingham. Nestled on the edge of the royal Sandringham Estate, this village is the perfect starting point for woodland walks. As the bus continues north, you’ll pass through Ingoldisthorpe, a peaceful village that embodies the quiet beauty of rural Norfolk. Keep your eyes peeled on the fields between villages; it’s not uncommon to spot pheasants or even deer grazing near the hedgerows.
Wildlife and wonders in Snettisham
Next, the bus arrives in Snettisham. This is a must-visit stop for nature lovers. A short walk from the village brings you to Snettisham Park, a working farm where you can hand-feed red deer and see lambs being born in the spring. The village itself is picture-perfect, with an ancient church spire that has guided travelers for centuries.
Heacham and the scent of lavender
As you approach the coast, the air gets salty and fresh. The 34 stops in Heacham, a village famous for its connection to Pocahontas and its stunning beaches. However, the headline act here is undoubtedly Norfolk Lavender. The bus stops right nearby, allowing you to wander through vibrant purple gardens (in season) and pick up some fragrant gifts without worrying about parking.
The grand finale: Hunstanton
The journey concludes in Hunstanton, affectionately known as “Sunny Hunny.” The Coastliner 34 drops you right near the action. You can marvel at the famous red-and-white striped cliffs, explore the rock pools, or simply watch the sun set over the wash—one of the few places in East Anglia where the sun sets over the sea.
When does the route run?
- Monday to Saturday: Buses run frequently, typically every 30 minutes during the daytime.
- Sundays and Public Holidays: The service operates hourly, perfect for a lazy Sunday lunch by the sea.
Tickets and value for money
Traveling with Lynx is designed to be easy and affordable. You don’t need to pre-book; simply hop on and pay the driver.
- Contactless is King: All buses accept contactless card payments and Apple/Google Pay.
- Great Value: Lynx offers a variety of tickets to suit your needs. A “Townrider” is great for King’s Lynn, but for this full route, ask for a Coast Day ticket if you plan to hop on and off, or a standard single/return if you are going A to B.
- Group Savings: If you are traveling with family or friends, ask about the Group Day tickets. Up to 5 people (maximum 2 adults) can travel together for a discounted price, often making the bus cheaper than paying for multiple car parks in Hunstanton.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit on the top deck: Although Lynx operates a mix of single and double-deckers, if you catch a double-decker, grab the front seat upstairs for the best views of the sprawling Norfolk fields.
- Check the app: Download the Lynx Bus app to track your bus in real-time. This is especially handy if you are enjoying a cream tea in a village and want to time your exit perfectly.
- Combine routes: The 34 runs parallel to the 35 (which serves Sandringham Visitor Centre) and the 36 (which goes further along the coast). Your day ticket is valid on all of them, giving you maximum flexibility.
Planning a day out on this route
10:00 AM: Depart King’s Lynn. Grab a coffee at the station before boarding.
10:30 AM: Hop off at Norfolk Lavender in Heacham. Explore the gardens and visit the farm shop.
12:00 PM: Board the next 34 to Hunstanton.
12:30 PM: Enjoy fish and chips on the green and walk along the striped cliffs.
03:00 PM: Take the bus back to Snettisham for a quick pint in a traditional village pub.
05:00 PM: Catch the 34 back to King’s Lynn, watching the evening light settle over the fields.
Year-round appeal
- Spring: Watch the fields turn yellow with rapeseed and see new lambs at Snettisham Park.
- Summer: Enjoy the lavender in full bloom and beach days in Hunstanton.
- Autumn: The golden light on the carrstone buildings is a photographer’s dream.
- Winter: There is nothing quite like a brisk, cold walk on a deserted Heacham beach followed by a warm bus ride home.
So leave the car keys at home, forget about parking meters, and let the Coastliner 34 whisk you away to the best of the Norfolk coast.
