Seals are one of the most beloved marine animals in the UK, and for good reason. These playful and curious creatures can be found along the coast of the UK, and there are many great spots where you can see them in their natural habitat. Here are 12 of the best places to see seals in the UK.
1. Blakeney Point, Norfolk
Blakeney Point is home to England’s largest grey seal colony, with over 3,000 pups born here each year. The best time to see the seals is from November to January, when the pups are born and the adults come ashore to breed. You can take a boat trip from Morston Quay to see the seals up close, or view them from the beach at the end of Blakeney Point.
2. Donna Nook, Lincolnshire
Donna Nook is another great spot to see grey seals in the UK. This nature reserve is home to around 2,000 seals during the breeding season from October to December. Visitors can view the seals from a viewing area on the dunes, which provides a safe distance for both the seals and the public. The sight of the cute, fluffy seal pups is not to be missed!
3. Horsey Beach, Norfolk
Horsey Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline in Norfolk that is home to a large colony of grey seals. The seals can be seen here year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the pups are born. Visitors can view the seals from the beach or take a guided walk with a warden to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
4. Orkney Islands, Scotland
The Orkney Islands are a group of islands off the north coast of Scotland that are home to a variety of wildlife, including seals. Both grey and common seals can be found here, and the best time to see them is during the summer months. Visitors can take a boat trip to see the seals up close, or spot them from the shore at places like the Brough of Birsay or the Bay of Skaill.
5. Farne Islands, Northumberland
The Farne Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Northumberland that are home to a large colony of grey seals. The seals can be seen here year-round, but the best time to visit is during the autumn months when the pups are born. Visitors can take a boat trip from Seahouses to see the seals up close, and may even spot some of the other wildlife that calls the islands home, such as puffins and terns.
6. Forvie National Nature Reserve, Aberdeenshire
Forvie National Nature Reserve is a stunning coastal reserve in Aberdeenshire that is home to a large colony of seals. Both grey and common seals can be found here, and the best time to see them is during the summer months. Visitors can view the seals from the beach or take a guided walk with a ranger to learn more about these fascinating creatures and the other wildlife that calls the reserve home.
7. Ravenscar, North Yorkshire
Ravenscar is a coastal village in North Yorkshire that is home to a small colony of grey seals. The seals can be seen here year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the pups are born. Visitors can view the seals from the clifftop path or take a guided walk with a local wildlife expert to learn more about these adorable creatures.
8. St. Mary’s Island, Northumberland
St. Mary’s Island is a small island off the coast of Whitley Bay in Northumberland that is home to a colony of grey seals. The seals can be seen here year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the pups are born. Visitors can view the seals from the causeway that connects the island to the mainland, or take a boat trip around the island to see them up close.
9. Isle of Mull, Scotland
The Isle of Mull is a beautiful island off the west coast of Scotland that is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals. Both grey and common seals can be found here, and the best time to see them is during the summer months. Visitors can take a boat trip to see the seals up close, or spot them from the shore at places like Calgary Bay or Loch na Keal.
10. Hilbre Islands, Wirral
The Hilbre Islands are a group of three small islands off the coast of the Wirral Peninsula in Merseyside. The islands are home to a colony of grey seals, which can be seen here year-round. Visitors can walk to the islands at low tide and view the seals from the shore, but should be aware of the tides and follow local safety advice.
11. Godrevy Point, Cornwall
Godrevy Point is a beautiful headland in Cornwall that is home to a small colony of grey seals. The seals can be seen here year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the pups are born. Visitors can view the seals from the clifftop path or take a guided walk with a local wildlife expert to learn more about these fascinating creatures and the other wildlife that calls the area home.
12. Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
The Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals. Both grey and common seals can be found here, and the best time to see them is during the summer months. Visitors can take a boat trip to see the seals up close, or spot them from the shore at places like Skomer Island or Ramsey Island. The Pembrokeshire Coast is also home to a variety of other wildlife, such as puffins and dolphins, making it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
Becky is a fervent wildlife enthusiast and pet care expert with a diploma in canine nutrition. Her love for animals stretches beyond the domestic, embracing the wild tapestry of global fauna. With over a decade of experience in animal welfare, Becky lends her expertise to OutlandishOwl through insightful articles, captivating wildlife information, and invaluable guidance on pet nutrition. Her work embodies a deep commitment to understanding the intricate lives of animals and a passion for educating others on sustaining natural habitats. Becky's hands-on conservation efforts and her knack for translating complex dietary science into practical pet feeding tips make her an indispensable voice for creatures great and small.
