Blakeney Point Nature Walk

Blakeney Point is one of Norfolk's natural treasures, a shingle spit stretching into the North Sea that is home to colonies of grey and common seals. This 5-mile walk follows the coast path from Cley Beach to the edge of the seal colony area.

The Route

Start at the Cley Beach car park and head west along the shingle bank. The walking is on shingle for the first section, which can be tiring but rewards with views across the vast salt marshes to your right and the open sea to your left. After a mile, the path transitions to firmer ground along the top of the spit.

Continue toward Blakeney Point, watching for the increasing numbers of seals hauled out on the sand banks. During the breeding season (November to January), hundreds of grey seal pups dot the beaches. The National Trust manages the site and wardens are on hand during the pupping season. Turn back at the boundary markers and return the same way.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs are NOT allowed on Blakeney Point during the seal breeding season (typically November to mid-January). Outside this period, dogs are welcome on leads. The shingle is tough on paws and dogs need to be fit for this walk. Carry water as there are no freshwater sources. The walk is linear so you cover the same ground twice.

Practical Information

Cley Beach car park has toilets and a seasonal cafe. The shingle walking is physically demanding and the route is exposed to coastal weather. Check the National Trust website for seasonal restrictions before visiting. Boat trips to see the seals from the water run from Morston Quay as an alternative. The walk is best outside peak summer when the spit is quieter.