Beaches of North Norfolk
Within fifteen miles are the beaches and costal towns of North Norfolk, notably Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea. Holkham beach is said to be one of the finest in the British Isles. It is sheltered by a Pine Forrest and access is via Lady Anne's Drive where there is plenty of parking. Recently opened, is The Lookout - a visitor facility with cafe and spectacular views over the nature reserve. The town of Wells-next-the-sea is actually about a mile from the sea. At low tide, it offers a vast sandy beach, characterized by colorful beach huts. Brancaster beach is designated an area of outstanding natural beauty. The water recedes to leave shallow lagoons; it is made up of salt march, sand flats and miles of sandy beach. Rich in wildlife, you can spot avocets, oyster catchers and terns to name but a few. Cley-next-the-Sea is a Birding Mecca as it has a wide range of natural habitats for breeding and feeding. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitor centre at Cley Marshes has year round activities. The visitor Centre and car park are on the A149, just east of the village.
Costal Wildlife
Blakeney Point is a National Trust Nature Reserve, internationally recognized for its seal colony and breeding birds. Breading season for grey seals is October to January. There is a walking route out to the colony but the best way to view the seals is to take a boating trip. There are two companies operating seal trips:
Beans Boat Trips (01263 740505 or 01263 740038)
Temples Seal Trips (01263 740791)
Beans Boat Trips (01263 740505 or 01263 740038)
Temples Seal Trips (01263 740791)
Coastal Walks
There are four costal walks at Blakeney Point, ranging from three to seven miles. The detailed walking guides and maps can be found on The National Trust web site.