Everything you need to know about visiting Blakeney Point seals 

Everything you need to know about seeing one of the UK's greatest wildlife spectacles.

Few wildlife experiences in England are as memorable as seeing the seals at Blakeney Point. Whether you're visiting in the height of summer or during the magical winter pupping season, watching these beautiful marine mammals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Located on the stunning North Norfolk coast, Blakeney Point is home to England's largest grey seal colony, with around 9,000 grey seal pups born each year during the breeding season. Alongside grey seals, you'll also have the chance to spot common (harbour) seals throughout the year. (National Trust)

If you're planning a holiday in Blakeney, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Where is Blakeney Point?

Blakeney Point is a four-mile-long shingle spit that stretches west from Cley-next-the-Sea towards Morston, protecting the salt marshes and harbour from the North Sea.

Owned and cared for by the National Trust, it forms part of the Blakeney National Nature Reserve, an internationally important site for wildlife, including seals, migratory birds and rare coastal plants. (Blakeney Parish Council)

Why is Blakeney Point famous? 

Blakeney Point has become one of Britain's most important wildlife destinations because of its thriving seal population.

The area offers everything seals need:

• Quiet beaches

• Sand dunes

• Shingle banks

• Shallow coastal waters

• Minimal disturbance

These ideal conditions have allowed the grey seal population to grow dramatically over the past few decades.

Which seals can you see?

There are two species regularly seen around Blakeney Point.

Grey seals

Grey seals are the larger of the two species and are easy to recognise by their long "Roman nose" and large size.

During late autumn and early winter, thousands gather to give birth to their fluffy white pups.

Common (Harbour) seals

Common seals are smaller with shorter, rounded faces.

They can often be seen basking on sandbanks during the summer months and are present around the reserve throughout the year.

When is the best time to visit?

January–March 

You'll still see plenty of seals, including recently weaned pups exploring the shoreline.

April–June

A fantastic time for boat trips.

The weather is often milder, birdlife is abundant and the coastline is bursting into life.

July–September

One of the best periods for family holidays.

Boat trips run regularly and common seals can often be seen lying out on the sandbanks.

October–January

This is the famous grey seal pupping season.

Around 9,000 pups are born between late October and mid-January, making it one of Europe's most spectacular wildlife events. Boat trips are extremely popular during this period, so it's advisable to book in advance. (National Trust)

What's the best way to see the Blakeney Point seals?

Take a seal boat trip

For most visitors, a boat trip is the easiest and most enjoyable way to experience the colony.

The majority of trips depart from Morston Quay, just a few minutes' drive from Blakeney, although some seasonal departures also operate from Blakeney Quay when conditions allow. Trips are timed around the tides and usually last about an hour. (Blakeney Parish Council)

From the water you'll enjoy excellent views of the seals while causing minimal disturbance to the colony.

Can you walk to Blakeney Point?

Yes—but it's a very long walk.

You can reach parts of Blakeney Point on foot from Cley Beach, but the route is several miles over shingle and can be very challenging. During the grey seal pupping season and bird breeding season, access restrictions are in place to protect wildlife, so you cannot walk into the main seal colony. Always follow National Trust signs and guidance. (National Trust)

What should you bring?

To make the most of your visit, pack:

• Warm layers (even in summer it can feel cool on the water)
• Waterproof jacket
• Comfortable footwear
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Sun cream
• Hat
• Drinking water

Can you bring dogs?

Dogs are welcome in many parts of the North Norfolk coast, but extra care is needed around Blakeney Point.

To protect nesting birds and seals, seasonal restrictions apply in some areas. If you encounter seals, keep dogs on a lead and move away quietly without disturbing the animals. (National Trust)

Seal watching etiquette

Watching wildlife responsibly helps ensure future generations can enjoy this special place.

Please remember to:

• Stay at least 100 metres away from seals if you're on foot.
• Never try to touch or feed a seal.
• Keep noise to a minimum.
• Keep dogs under close control and on a lead where required.
• Never block a seal's route back to the sea.
• Follow instructions from the National Trust and boat operators. (National Trust)

If a seal lifts its head and watches you, you've probably come too close.

Photography tips

Blakeney Point is a dream location for wildlife photographers.

For the best results:

• Bring a zoom lens if you have one.
• Keep your camera or phone ready as seals often pop up unexpectedly.
• Early morning and late afternoon provide beautiful light.
• Always respect seals and other wildlife by photographing from a distance. 

What else can you see?

A seal trip often includes sightings of:

• Sandwich terns
• Oystercatchers
• Avocets
• Curlews
• Marsh harriers
• Brent geese (in winter)
• Colourful salt marshes and sandbanks

Every trip is a little different, making repeat visits worthwhile.

Combine your seal trip with a day out

Many visitors enjoy combining seal watching with:

• A stroll around Blakeney Quay
• Lunch in one of the village's pubs or cafés or from the food caravans on Blakeney Quay.
• Shopping in Blakeney's gift shops or art galleries or in nearby Holt
• A walk along the Norfolk Coast Path
• A visit to Cley Marshes and the RSPB visitor centre

It's easy to turn your seal trip into a full day exploring North Norfolk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there seals at Blakeney Point all year round?

Yes. Both grey and common seals can be seen throughout the year, although numbers and behaviour vary with the seasons. Winter is best for seeing grey seal pups, while summer offers excellent opportunities to spot common seals and enjoy boat trips. (National Trust)

How long Is a seal trip?

Most boat trips last around one hour, although exact times depend on the tides and weather conditions.

Do I need to book?

Yes. Boat trips are very popular, particularly during school holidays and the grey seal pupping season, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Is It suitable for children?

Absolutely. Seal trips are a wonderful family activity and are often one of the highlights of a North Norfolk holiday.

Can I see baby seals?

Yes. The best time to see newborn grey seal pups is from late October until mid-January, when thousands are born on Blakeney Point. Visitors should admire them from a safe distance and avoid disturbing the colony. (National Trust)

Stay in a cottage in Blakeney, close to one of North Norfolk's greatest wildlife experiences

One of the joys of staying in Blakeney is having this remarkable wildlife spectacle right on your doorstep. Whether you're taking a boat trip on a sunny summer afternoon or wrapping up to see the famous winter seal pups, a visit to Blakeney Point is an experience you'll remember long after your holiday has ended.

If you're planning a stay on the North Norfolk coast, be sure to set aside time for a seal-watching adventure—you'll quickly discover why Blakeney Point is considered one of the finest wildlife destinations in the UK.

Stay in Blakeney at Gardeners Cottage 

Gardeners Cottage is just a short 5-minute stroll from Blakeney Quay and a 5 minute drive from Morston Quay (you can also walk to Morston Quay from Gardeners Cottage along the coastal path in about 20-30 minutes, depending how fast you walk)