When Is The Best Time To See Seals At Blakeney

Best Time of Year to See Seals at Blakeney

If you’re planning a visit to the North Norfolk coast, one of the absolute must-see experiences is a trip to Blakeney Point to watch the seals. It’s one of the most magical wildlife encounters in the UK, and thankfully, seals can be seen all year round. However, if you want to catch them in their greatest numbers, there is one very special time of year that stands out: the grey seal pupping season.

Year-round seal watching in Blakeney

Blakeney Point is home to both common seals and grey seals, and you’re likely to spot them lounging on the sandbanks or bobbing about in the water no matter when you visit. Summer is particularly lovely for boat trips, with calm seas and long, warm days. Common seals pup during June and July, so you may see fluffy cream-coloured pups resting beside their mothers on the shoreline.

The spectacle of grey seal pupping season

Late October to mid-January

For the highest numbers of seals—and the most unforgettable wildlife display—plan your visit between late October and mid-January, when the grey seals give birth. Blakeney is home to the largest grey seal colony in England, and during pupping season the numbers can swell into the thousands.

The shoreline becomes dotted with adorable, snow-white pups, while adults gather in enormous groups across the beach. It’s a remarkable sight, and boat operators in Morston and Blakeney run regular winter trips to view the colony safely from the water.

Why this time of year Is so special in North Norfolk

• Huge colony numbers: You’ll witness the greatest concentration of seals anywhere in England.
• Birthing season: See newborn pups being cared for by their mothers.
• Unique winter atmosphere: Blakeney Point feels wonderfully wild and untouched during this season, with moody skies and crisp coastal air adding to the experience.

Tips for visitors to see seals in Blakeney in winter

• Book boat trips early: Winter sailings are extremely popular and often sell out.
• Wrap up warm: Even on calm days, it’s cold out on the water.
• Observe from a distance: The National Trust protects the colony, and staying back ensures both seals and pups remain safe and undisturbed.
• Check tides: Boat operators schedule trips around the tides, so times vary daily.

A magical Norfolk experience

Whether you’re staying at Gardeners Cottage in Blakeney or simply visiting the area, seeing the seals is an unforgettable highlight. The beauty is that you can come any time of year, but if you want the full, breathtaking spectacle—with thousands of seals and the heart-warming sight of new pups—then the grey seal pupping season from late October to mid-January is truly the best time to visit.

If you’d like, I can also format this for your website, add images, or write a companion page about boat trip options from Morston Quay.