Norfolk is one of the most underrated spots in the UK. If you want endless stretching sandy beaches to rival Cornwall, gardens to escape to or pine forests that lead down to the sea, look no further. One thing I didn’t know about Norfolk though, until recently, was that it’s a great place to see seals.
Just a couple of hours away from London, Blakeney Point is home to the largest colonies of grey and common seal in England. The best way to sea the seals here is by pre-booked boat trip (which is, of course, reliant on the British weather being on your side). You can also walk from Cley but as most of the walk is across shingle and tides can turn quickly it’s not recommended for those unfamiliar with the area.
For a great day out from London, my favourite spot is Horsey Beach where you can catch seals playing on the waters edge and, on most days, find a colony on the sandbank closer to Winterton-on-Sea. From the National Trust carpark at Horsey Windmill it’s about half an hour walk through the countryside and the moment you set foot on the beach you’ll see inquisitive seals popping their heads out of the water. I could’ve stayed watching them (from afar!) all day, there’s something so peaceful about seeing a wild animal in its natural habitat.
