Great Yarmouth's story is one of the most fascinating of any English seaside town. From its origins as a sandbank in the North Sea to its heyday as the herring capital of the world, and its reinvention as a beloved Victorian holiday resort, the town has constantly evolved while retaining its unique character.

The Sandbank Origins

Great Yarmouth literally grew from the sea. Around 1,000 years ago, a large sandbank formed at the mouth of the River Yare, gradually growing and stabilising until it became habitable. Fishermen were the first settlers, drawn by the extraordinary abundance of herring in the surrounding waters. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, Yarmouth was already an established settlement.

Medieval Prosperity

The herring trade made Great Yarmouth one of the wealthiest towns in medieval England. During the annual herring season, the town's population would swell as thousands of fishermen, merchants and workers arrived to process and trade the silver fish. The town received its Royal Charter in 1208, and the wealth generated by herring built the magnificent town walls, churches and merchants' houses that still survive today.

The town's unique Rows, over 140 narrow alleyways running between the main streets, were built to maximise living and working space within the town walls. Some were so narrow that specially designed Row carts had to be built to navigate them. Several Rows survive today and can be explored on foot.

Tudor and Stuart Great Yarmouth

The Elizabethan period brought continued prosperity. Fine merchants' houses were built, including the Elizabethan House on South Quay which is now a museum. The town played a significant role during the English Civil War, siding with Parliament, and Oliver Cromwell is said to have stayed in the town.

The Nelson Connection

Great Yarmouth has a special connection with Admiral Lord Nelson. He landed here several times, most famously after the Battle of the Nile in 1798, when he was given the Freedom of the Borough. The Nelson Monument on the seafront, erected in 1819, actually predates the more famous Nelson's Column in London by over 20 years. The Nelson Museum on South Quay tells the full story of this national hero's connection with the town.

Victorian Seaside Resort

The arrival of the railway in 1844 transformed Great Yarmouth from a fishing port into a fashionable seaside resort. Victorian holidaymakers flocked to the town, and the seafront was developed with grand hotels, piers and entertainment venues. Britannia Pier opened in 1858, Wellington Pier followed in 1853, and the famous Golden Mile of amusements grew along Marine Parade.

The Hippodrome, built in 1903, is one of only three purpose-built circus buildings still operating in the UK and continues to host spectacular shows to this day.

The World Wars

Great Yarmouth suffered heavily during both World Wars due to its strategic coastal position. During World War I, the town was bombarded by German warships in 1914, one of the first attacks on British soil. In World War II, extensive bombing destroyed many historic buildings, but the town's resilient spirit saw it rebuilt and renewed.

Modern Great Yarmouth

Today, Great Yarmouth continues to evolve while celebrating its heritage. The seafront buzzes with traditional seaside entertainment, while the historic quarter preserves centuries of history. The town's location at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads adds another dimension to its appeal, and ongoing regeneration projects are bringing new energy to this historic Norfolk town.

Explore the History

Stay at St George Hotel and explore Great Yarmouth's rich heritage on foot. The Time and Tide Museum, Nelson Museum, Elizabethan House, Row Houses and Tolhouse are all within walking distance. Book your historical break today.