Uncover the Rare Wildlife & Medieval Ruins in a Tiny UK Seaside Village: My Epic David Attenborough-worthy Seal Encounter!

Discover the Magical Grey Seals of Winterton-on-Sea in Norfolk

THE sun-soaked sands stretch out before us, for miles and miles. It looks as if large rocks have washed ashore, scattered along the water’s edge.

Unveiling the Grey Seals

But as we move closer, one of those “rocks” begins to wiggle and flap. These shapes, we soon realise, are actually huge grey seals and there are hundreds as far as the eye can see. Then, a closer look reveals an even bigger surprise — small bundles of grey and fluffy wide-eyed seal pups flapping about by their mothers.

A Dog-Friendly Getaway

I’m in Winterton-on-Sea, a small village on the picturesque Norfolk coast where thousands of these creatures lounge on the beach each year between November and February. My family and I are visiting a dog-friendly holiday cottage during winter, when the tourist tide of summer has receded to leave just a handful of hardy visitors.

Exploring the Picturesque Village

Our home for four nights is two-bedroom Tremeer, a modern treat from Winterton Cottages that comes with a huge sofa to snuggle down on after long walks, and a cosy fireplace. Getting there is easy — take a train to Great Yarmouth then a 20-minute, pet-friendly taxi (best book ahead).

Immersing in Nature

And the golden sands and blue sky bring us close to thinking we are abroad. The cold reminds us we are in England but does not detract from the striking beauty of our surroundings. Swing by the village’s Seal View Cafe for a hot chocolate or breakfast bap while watching seals on the shore.

Local Attractions and Eateries

Or stroll on the sand dunes, which are protected as a wildlife reserve. Look out for rare Natterjack toads, which we heard but were not lucky enough to clap eyes on. The beach winds on past Hemsby, the next village south, before reaching the resort town of Great Yarmouth — buzzing with classic seaside fun, such arcade games and donkey rides.

Relaxing at the Village Pubs

If you take the beautiful two-mile long walk from Winterton to Hemsby, stop for a pint at the dog-friendly Kings Head on North Road. Or if you prefer to stay nearer your home-from-home, the Fisherman’s Return pub in Winterton is full of chatty locals and holidaymakers, almost all with canine companions.

Planning Your Trip

One note of warning, though, is that some shops and attractions in the area have special winter opening hours, so best check ahead beforehand.

Final Thoughts

But back at the Winterton pub, a different kind of spirit awaits — one that will certainly reward us for our lengthy strolls and lashings of sea air.