Fossils in Norfolk

If you find fossils fascinating then your curiosity will certainly be tweaked when you take time to walk along the beaches of North Norfolk, keeping a beady eye on the cliffs especially if you are by the chalk cliffs at West Runton.

West Runton Mammoth

This is where the remains of the largest and oldest fossil to be discovered here, was exposed when the cliffs eroded during a storm. This fossil turned out to be a Mammoth and some of its bones can be seen in the Norwich Museum.

Some bones discovered fairly recently have been tentatively identified as that of a type of rhinoceros.

These cliffs also release from time to time, sponges and echinoids. Other mammals and fish fossil remains are very common and also freshwater shells.

So who knows when the next big find will show itself!

Hunstanton Beach and Cliffs

Hunstanton is the other great place to visit not only to admire the multi-hued cliffs, but to see how many fossils can be seen in the layers.

There are loads of sharks teeth, bivalves, ammonites and brachiopods waiting to be gently excavated.

Although you can see these fossils poking out of the chalk layers, you are not allowed to get to them, however because of erosion there are many boulders that have broken away from the cliff, lying on the beach and you are allowed to explore them and you will be amazed at how many interesting fossils can be found – this keeps children and adults of all ages occupied for ages!

I have just chosen two areas for you explore but in fact, the whole of the North Norfolk coast is a haven for the fossil hunters and has many secrets yet to be uncovered.

Just take care on the beach, keep a close eye on the tides, wear eye protection if you are planning on wielding a hammer and if you do find something, take it to a local museum for identification.