The pretty Norfolk seaside village that can be admired from the top of a castle

The village has a sandy beach and a racecourse and is just under two hours from Cambridge

With the end of the summer holidays fast approaching, there are still a few opportunities left to make the most of the longer evenings and warm weather. If it’s one last beach trip you’re after, then a visit to Norfolk will end your summer on a high.

Caister-on-Sea near Great Yarmouth is a worthwhile spot thanks to its miles of golden sand and welcoming village. Whilst it has all of the typical amenities you would expect from a seaside village, there is a unique attraction which sets it above the rest. Instead of heading home after you’ve built your sandcastles, you might want to head over to Caister Castle. Although the building is mostly in ruins today, a 90-foot tower still stands, and visitors can climb to the top and get a bird’s eye view of the historical site.

This 15th century castle was pioneering in its day as one of the earliest important buildings to use brick as the main construction material. After you have discovered the intriguing history of the castle, you will be met with a surprising museum collection. You might expect to see old furniture or trinkets from the days when the castle was inhabited by Sir John Falstof, a soldier in the Hundred Years’ War.

However, the museum is actually filled with a private collection of motor vehicles. Some of the standout pieces include the first Ford Fiesta to ever come off the production line and the Lotus driven by racing driver James Lotus, who held the records for most wins, pole positions, and fastest laps at the time of his death in 1968.

Those with a preference for four legs in sports, over four wheels, will be pleased to know Great Yarmouth Racecourse is just outside Caister-on-Sea. During racing season between April and October, visitors can cheer on their chosen horses and become one of the 12,000 people who attend the three-day Eastern Festival.

The racecourse also holds family-friendly events, such as the safari family fun race day on August 30.

You many choose to have a picnic on the beach during your trip to the village, but if you plan on buying food, you will be met with classic seaside village options. The streets are lined with multiple fish and chip shops. A small, family-run pub called Never Turn Back on Manor Road offers Sunday carveries as well as full English breakfasts.

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You could also try one of the roasts at Castle Carvery on Norwich Road, which boasts a large indoor playground for energetic children.

Whether you’re racing after kids or looking to watch horses racing, Caister-on-Sea could be the place for you. The car journey from Cambridge is manageable, too, taking just under two hours.