Where to See Seals in the UK: 11 Seal Spotting Hotspots

Keen to catch a glimpse of Britain’s marine mammalian residents? Search no further than these 11 prime seal-watching locations dotting the UK’s picturesque coastlines. From the bustling grey seal colonies of North Norfolk to the rugged shores of Northumberland, these hotspots offer unparalleled opportunities to observe these enchanting creatures in their natural habitats. Curious to learn more about the best ways to spot seals on your next coastal adventure? Let’s plunge in.

Key Points

• The North Norfolk Coast is home to England’s largest grey seal colonies, with over 4,500 pups born annually at Blakeney Point and Horsey Beach.
• Northumberland’s coastal areas, including Seaton Sluice and Whitley Bay, offer excellent opportunities to spot grey seals, particularly during the pupping season.
• The Orkney Islands are a global hotspot for both harbour and grey seals, with over 10% of the world’s grey seals breeding there.
• Conservation efforts, such as aerial surveys and monitoring programs, are in place to protect iconic seal species in the UK.
• Visitors are advised to maintain a safe distance from seals, avoid disturbances, and use binoculars or zoom lenses for the best viewing experiences.

Blakeney Point

Situated along the North Norfolk coast, the 4-mile shingle and sand spit of Blakeney Point is an enchanting natural wonder. Managed by the National Trust since 1912, this dynamic coastal landform is shaped by tidal currents and sediment movement. It’s home to England’s largest grey seal colony, with over 4,500 grey seal pups born from late October to mid-January. Visitors can access the site only by boat, with guided tours bringing them within 15-20 meters of the seals. The best viewing is during low tide when the seals haul out on the exposed sandbanks. Beyond the seals, the site also hosts breeding little terns and coastal bird migrations.

Horsey Beach

Horsey Beach, located along the scenic Norfolk coast, is one of the UK’s largest grey seal colonies. Over 3,500 seal pups born in the 2024/2025 season. With over 3,500 seal pups born annually, it’s a prime spotting spot. During the peak pupping season from November to February, you’ll witness the remarkable sight of thousands of seals on the beach.

To make the most of your visit:

1. Time it right – Come during low tide to get close, and aim for winter sunrises/sunsets for stunning photography.
2. Follow the rules – Keep 10+ meters away, avoid the dunes, and no flash photography.
3. Explore the area – Grab a bite in Horsey village and take a 30-minute beach walk from Waxham Sands.

Winterton-on-Sea

Just north of the famous Horsey Beach, Winterton-on-Sea forms a critical part of the broader Horsey-Winterton grey seal colony along the Norfolk coast. Seal counts are conducted during the pupping season to monitor seal population stability. This area hosts around 40% of the UK’s 300,000-strong grey seal population, with births peaking from December to February.

Monitoring combines AI-drone surveys and weekly ground counts, tracking population trends and pup survival. Visitors must follow guidelines, keeping 10m distance, leashing dogs, and avoiding disturbances.

Monitoring combines AI-drone surveys and weekly ground counts, tracking population trends and pup survival.

With no formal booking system, you can simply explore the marked access paths and designated viewing zones, spotting the adorable white-coated pups during the peak months.

Hunstanton

Located in North Norfolk, Hunstanton offers a prime destination for those seeking to spot common seals along the coast. Renowned for its coastal scenery and seal-watching opportunities, the area is home to one of the UK’s largest common seal colonies in The Wash. Boat trips on “Wizzy the Wash Monster” are available multiple times daily from May to September.

To make the most of your seal-spotting experience:

1. Set out on a seal safari from May to October for close-up encounters with these enchanting marine mammals.
2. Visit the Hunstanton Sea Life Centre, which houses a seal hospital and offers educational talks about seal conservation.
3. Time your visit during the summer months to see adorable seal pups and observe their inquisitive nature.

Waxham Beach

Although less crowded than its famous neighbor Horsey Beach, Waxham’s coastal stretch offers prime seal-spotting opportunities along Norfolk’s east coast. Grey seals exhibit extensive migratory patterns, traveling hundreds of kilometers. You’ll find limited parking and narrow access roads, but the sand-dune-edged beach is accessible via footpaths. While there are no direct facilities, the nearby Waxham Barn’s Dunes Café provides refreshments.

Waxham sees consistent seal sightings year-round, with peak pupping season from November to February. To observe the colony, maintain a safe 15m distance and avoid direct approaches. For the best views, binoculars or zoom lenses are recommended.

Nearby accommodations, like Shangri-la House, allow you to hear the seals’ nighttime vocalizations from the comfort of your stay.

Farne Islands

The Farne Islands off the Northumberland coast are home to one of England’s largest grey seal colonies. Home to around 4,000 grey seals, these islands produce an impressive 2.5-3% of the UK’s annual grey seal pup births. Approximately 40% of the world’s grey seals breed in the UK, making the Farne Islands crucial for the conservation of this species.

The best time to visit is during the autumn pupping season from September to November when you can observe newborn pups and the adult seals. To get close to the action, you’ll need to book a boat tour from Seahouses, as landings are restricted to protect the seals.

Bring your binoculars and keep quiet to avoid disturbing the colonies.

1. Spot up to 3,000 grey seal pups born annually on the islands.
2. See the seals year-round, with peak visibility during the breeding season.
3. Take a guided boat tour for expert commentary on the seals and their habitat.

Boulmer

Nestled between the charming villages of Craster and Alnwick on Northumberland’s rugged coastline, Boulmer offers prime seal spotting opportunities. The North East coast is a prime location for seal watching. You can access the area via minor roads off the A1068, though parking is limited. Coastal footpaths connect to nearby settlements like Howick and Embleton, and the nearby Sugar Sands Beach provides stunning views and secluded coves.

While an active RAF base limits some coastal access, it also preserves the area’s tranquility. Year-round, you’ll spot grey seals in the surrounding waters, with common seals reported during the summer pupping season.

For the best views, visit during low tide and use binoculars, but avoid approaching pups to prevent disturbance.

Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

Situated along Northumberland’s picturesque coastline, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea offers excellent opportunities to spot both grey and common seals. Population figures are based on output areas. According to Natural Newbiggin’s marine wildlife documentation, the best seal-spotting locations in the area are:

1. The harbor breakwater, where seals often bask on the rocks.
2. The coastal path near the Couple sculpture, a popular spot for observing seals in the water.
3. The beach at low tide, where you may catch a glimpse of seals hunting or resting.

Remember to keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals.

With a little patience and keen observation, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable seal-watching experience in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.

Seaton Sluice

Although Seaton Sluice may not be as well-known as some of Northumberland’s other coastal gems, this charming village offers an excellent vantage point to spot grey seals along the rugged shoreline. Seaton Sluice offers several exploration areas. Situated between Whitley Bay and Blyth, Seaton Sluice boasts a historic 17th-century harbor, sandy beaches, and walking routes along the Northumberland Coastal Path.

While there’s no designated seal colony, the nearby grey seal populations and stormy weather can increase sightings near the rocky outcrops. The best time to visit is October-January, during the grey seal pupping season. After a scenic coastal walk, you can refuel at the local clifftop pub.

With its preserved industrial heritage and tranquil atmosphere, Seaton Sluice is a hidden gem for seal-watching enthusiasts.

Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay offers visitors an excellent opportunity to spot grey seals along its rugged coastline.

Situated in the North East of England, this popular destination is closely linked to St Mary’s Island, an essential habitat for these marine mammals. St Mary’s Island offers diverse habitats in a compact area. The island’s varied environments, including sea, shore, wetlands, and meadows, make it an ideal location for seal viewing and birdwatching.

To make the most of your seal-spotting experience:

1. Visit in spring and early summer when juvenile grey seals can frequently be seen resting on the rocks.
2. Maintain a safe distance of at least 50 meters to avoid disturbing the seals and keep your dog on a lead.
3. Check tide times to guarantee safe access to St Mary’s Island, and explore the area’s walking trails and visit the iconic St Mary’s Lighthouse.

Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands offer unparalleled opportunities for spotting both harbour and grey seals in the UK. Over 10% of the world’s grey seals breed here, making it a global hotspot.

You’ll find large haul-out groups, especially in the northeast and south. Grey seal pup production has been high, with around 22,000 pups in 2019.

The Orkney Islands host large grey seal haul-out groups, with around 22,000 pups born in 2019.

However, harbour seal numbers have declined considerably, falling by 68% since the late 1990s. The islands of Stroma, Swona, and Pentland Skerries are notable for grey seal sightings.

Aerial surveys and monitoring programs help inform conservation efforts to protect these iconic species.

Final Words

Plunge into the enchanting world of UK’s seal sanctuaries and witness nature’s wonders up close. From the picturesque Blakeney Point to the rugged Orkney Islands, these seal spotting hotspots offer a front-row seat to the mesmerizing dance of these marine mammals. Don’t let this chance to experience the magic slip through your fingers – plan your seal-watching adventure today!