Wildlife Watching in North Norfolk: The Best Spots to See Birds, Seals & More.
North Norfolk is a paradise for nature lovers, offering some of the UK’s best wildlife-watching opportunities. From flocks of migrating birds soaring over marshlands to grey seals basking on the sandbanks, this unspoiled coastline is teeming with life. Whether you're a dedicated birdwatcher or just love spotting animals in their natural habitat, here are the best places to experience North Norfolk’s incredible wildlife.
RSPB Titchwell Marsh
Just a short drive from Flock Cottage, Titchwell Marsh is a must-visit for birdwatchers. This RSPB nature reserve is home to a huge variety of species, from avocets and marsh harriers to rare waders. The mix of freshwater lagoons, reedbeds, and salt marshes creates the perfect environment for birds all year round.
Best time to visit: Autumn and winter bring thousands of migrating geese and waders, while spring and summer are great for spotting breeding birds.
Snettisham Nature Reserve
If you’re visiting between August and January, you won’t want to miss the Snettisham Spectacular—a breathtaking display of thousands of wading birds taking flight at sunrise as the tide rushes in. This phenomenon, also known as a "whirling wader spectacle," is one of the most dramatic wildlife experiences in the UK.
Best time to visit: Check the RSPB website for high-tide times, as this is when the birds take flight in huge swirling formations.
Wild Ken Hill
Featured on BBC’s Springwatch, Wild Ken Hill is a pioneering rewilding project near Snettisham, where you can see everything from red deer and beavers to barn owls and kestrels. This diverse landscape of woodland, wetlands, and meadows is perfect for those who love exploring nature. Guided tours are available for those who want a closer look at this incredible conservation project.
Best time to visit: Year-round, with different species active in each season.
Blakeney Point Seal Colony
A trip to North Norfolk wouldn’t be complete without seeing the famous Blakeney Point grey seals. This is the largest seal colony in England, with over 3,000 pups born each winter. You can take a boat trip from Morston Quay to see them lounging on the sandbanks—an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Best time to visit: November to January is seal pup season, but you can see seals on the sandbanks throughout the year.
Holkham National Nature Reserve
Stretching along the coastline near Wells-next-the-Sea, Holkham National Nature Reserve is one of the largest in the UK. It’s home to deer, hares, and an array of birdlife, including spoonbills and oystercatchers. The vast open beaches and pine forests make it a stunning place to walk and explore.
Best time to visit: Spring and summer for nesting birds, autumn for migrating species, and winter for dramatic coastal scenery.
Courtyard Farm, Ringstead
Right on the doorstep of Flock Cottage, Courtyard Farm is an organic farm committed to wildlife conservation. Its wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and woodland walks provide habitat for butterflies, hares, and songbirds, making it a fantastic place for a peaceful nature walk.
Best time to visit: Spring and summer for wildflowers and butterflies, but wildlife can be spotted year-round.
Plan Your Wildlife Adventure at Flock Cottage
Staying at Flock Cottage puts you right in the heart of North Norfolk’s wildlife haven. Whether you’re watching geese fly overhead from the garden or setting off on a coastal adventure, nature is never far away.📍 Book your stay today and experience the wild beauty of North Norfolk!