Seal Watching in Winterton-on-Sea and Horsey (Norfolk)

We recently visited Winterton-on-Sea for a short break. We stayed at Sunny View cottage, which is only a few minutes’ walk from the beach. It felt peaceful from the moment we arrived. The village is small and calm, and the beach is so close that you can wander down at any time.

The best part of the trip was the walk from Winterton-on-Sea to Horsey Beach. We saw hundreds of seals along the way. Adults resting on the sand and so many tiny pups close by. It felt special to stand there and watch them. It was the best wildlife experience we have had in the UK so far. It went beyond anything we expected.

 

The walk from Winterton-on-Sea to Horsey 

The walk starts right from Winterton-on-Sea beach. 

You follow the path along the dunes, with the sea on one side and the vast dunes on the other. A long stretch has protective barriers in place to keep a safe distance between the seals and people. The walk is around 3.5 miles each way, and most people can do it in about an hour and a half at a steady pace.

It took us much longer because we kept stopping to watch the seals. There are clear viewing points along the route, and we spent ages at each one. There were seal wardens in several spots, especially where some of the seals had come inland into the dunes. 

The landscape felt wide and open. There was a light drizzle, and only a few people were out, which made the walk feel calm and almost empty.

The route is easy and suits most people. The sandy ground is soft but not difficult. It is a good walk for families, couples, and anyone who likes a simple coastal stroll.

The seals

The first seals we spotted were two mums with their newborn pups. They had moved inland into a dip in the dunes. The whole area was roped off so people kept a safe distance, but we could still see them clearly. It felt special to watch them up close like that. It was a fantastic start to the seal-spotting experience.

We carried on along the dune path, and within minutes we saw even more seals. Adults and pups were scattered across the shore, on the dunes, and a few had wandered past the barriers and come further inland. It was a lot to take in, and we kept stopping to look around.

As we walked further, the numbers kept growing. There were hundreds of seals lying on the beach. From the top of the dunes, we looked down at a huge stretch of sand filled with seals in different colours and sizes. We had not expected such a large population in the breeding area, and it felt almost unreal to see so many in one place.

It was also interesting to watch their behaviour. Some were resting. Some were moving slowly. Others were calling out. Some pups were playful. Some pups were nursing. There was so much going on all around us.

We also saw a few bulls fighting each other. They were forceful, pushing and snapping as they battled for space and females. A couple of them had bloodied faces after the fight. It was raw and real & it showed just how strong and powerful these animals are.

We did not see a pup being born, but we came across several newborns. Some looked as if they were only an hour or so old, with the amniotic sac still partly attached. There were lots of placentas on the sand too, which the large birds were quick to feed on. It was nature at its simplest and most direct.

The grey seal, also known as the Atlantic Grey Seal or Horsehead Grey Seal, lives in the North Atlantic Sea and spends most of its life out in the water. You can tell the males and females apart quite easily. The bulls are dark and can grow up to about 3.3 metres and reach roughly 300 kg. The females are paler, smaller, and have a slimmer snout. They usually weigh between 100 and 150 kg. 

The pups were fluffy with pale white fur, which they shed at around six weeks when they start to get their waterproof coat. They wean at about three weeks, and the mother then leaves them to manage on their own. Once the fluffy coat is gone, the young seal heads into the sea to being the next chapter of its life. It was fascinating to watch these amazing creatures at such close quarters.

When we watched the seals, I noticed many mother seals gently scratching their newborn pups. It looked like a sweet little gesture at first. I later learnt that they do this to encourage nursing and to bond with their young. It was amazing to see this small interaction up close.

Best time to visit Winterton-on-Sea for the seal experience

The best time to see the seals at Winterton-on-Sea and Horsey is during the pupping season. This usually runs from late October to early February. This is when the pups are born, and the beaches become one of the busiest grey seal nurseries in the country. If you want to see plenty of pups, this is the ideal time to visit.

The area can get quite busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Many people come to see the seals, and the viewing points fill up fast. If you prefer a calmer experience, mornings are usually quieter. Weekdays also feel more peaceful, as fewer people are out walking on the dunes.

The weather plays a big part in the day. The coastline can feel very different depending on the conditions. A bright, crisp day makes the walk feel fresh and light. A bit of drizzle, like we had, gives the walk a quiet and moody feel. The wind can be strong too, as the route is open and exposed, so it is worth dressing warm no matter what the forecast says.

We visited again the next day when the forecast showed light rain, but it shifted to a mix of sunshine and a very light drizzle. This showed us how unpredictable it can be. The walk feels different depending on the conditions, and it is best to dress comfortably and be ready for anything.

Safety and respect while watching the seals

When walking along the dunes, it is important to keep a safe distance from the seals at all times. They may look calm, but they can move fast if they feel threatened. Staying back helps protect both you and the seals. Never step over the barriers or try to get closer for a photo. Use the zoom feature in your camera/phone and get a pair of binoculars for a close-up view.

You should never approach pups or adults. Even if a pup looks alone, its mother is usually nearby. If you get too close, the mother may panic and abandon her young. This can put the pup at real risk. Watching from a distance is the kindest and safest way to enjoy the experience. The marked paths are there for a reason, and following them keeps the whole area safe.

Dogs must always be kept on a lead and well away from the seals. A curious dog can easily scare a seal, and this can lead to injury for both animals. Keeping dogs under control also helps to protect the natural behaviour of the seals, who come to the dunes to rest and raise their pups.

Friends of Horsey Seals play a big part in keeping the colony safe. They are a registered charity and are dedicated to protecting the grey seals at Horsey and Winterton. They recruit and train a large team of volunteer seal wardens from the community. These wardens work in all weather throughout the pupping season. They make sure people keep a safe distance, guide visitors to the best viewing spots, and share up-to-date information. They also stop people and dogs from getting too close to the pups, which could cause the mother to abandon them. 

We found the wardens friendly and knowledgeable. They were doing their best to protect the seals while helping visitors enjoy the day. It is important to follow their advice and appreciate the work they do.

Practical tips for seal watching in Winterton-on-Sea

• Parking is available at both Winterton-on-Sea (£2/hr, £8 all day - prices when we visited in November) and Horsey. When we visited, the Horsey car park was locked at 4 pm, so plan your timings if you are driving.
• Toilets are usually found near the main car parks, so it is best to use them before you start.
• Wear shoes that are comfortable for sand and dunes. The ground is soft in places.
• Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the route.
• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Conditions can change without warning.
• The wind can be strong even on mild days and the walk is exposed.
• There are a few viewing areas and marked spots where you can safely see the seals.
• Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and well away from the seals.
• Bring binoculars if you have them. A camera with a zoom lens is useful too.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Winterton has a few nice spots to explore if you want to make a longer day of it. Winterton Dunes is a lovely area for a gentle walk. It feels peaceful and open, with soft paths and plenty of space. The village itself is small but friendly. There is a fish and chips shop and a pub called Fishermans Return in the village centre, which are handy after a long walk. 

If you head towards Horsey, you can visit Horsey Windpump. It is a classic Norfolk landmark and sits beside the water in a calm setting. Waxham Beach and Sea Palling Beach are not far either. Both are good for simple seaside walks. If you feel like exploring further, there are many Norfolk coastal spots within a short drive. The whole area is easy to enjoy at a slow pace.

Seeing the seals at Winterton-on-Sea and Horsey was something we will not forget. The sheer number of them was mind blowing. Watching so many adults and pups together felt rare and special. It has to be the best wildlife experience we have had in the UK. The walk itself was simple, but the views and the close look at the seals made it feel unforgettable.

If you enjoy calm days by the coast, this is a walk worth doing - especially during the seal pupping season. Take your time, keep a respectful distance, and let the seals carry on with their natural behaviour. It is a peaceful way to spend a few hours and a lovely chance to see wildlife up close.