Blakeney National Nature Reserve
About Blakeney National Nature Reserve
Blakeney is a Shingle, sand dune and saltmarsh reserve in Norfolk, managed by Natural England and National Trust. The reserve covers approximately 533 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The reserve is famous for its colony of around 500 grey and common seals. The shingle spit supports nesting little, common, sandwich and arctic terns in summer. The saltmarsh and mudflats are internationally important for wintering wildfowl and waders, including dark-bellied brent geese, curlew and oystercatcher. Ringed plovers nest on the shingle.
Wildlife & Habitat at Blakeney National Nature Reserve
The reserve is famous for its colony of around 500 grey and common seals. The shingle spit supports nesting little, common, sandwich and arctic terns in summer. The saltmarsh and mudflats are internationally important for wintering wildfowl and waders, including dark-bellied brent geese, curlew and oystercatcher. Ringed plovers nest on the shingle.
Location & Nearest Towns
Blakeney National Nature Reserve is located in Norfolk, England. The nearest town is Cromer. Nearby places include Cromer, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney.
Interesting Facts
- Blakeney Point is home to one of the largest seal colonies in England, with around 500 grey and common seals.
- Four species of tern — little, common, sandwich and arctic — nest on the shingle spit, making it one of the most important tern colonies in Britain.
- The shingle spit at Blakeney Point has been growing westward for centuries, extending by about 1 metre per year.
Visitor Tips for Blakeney National Nature Reserve
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing.
Binoculars, walking boots or wellies, waterproofs, and a field guide. Insect repellent in summer.
Car parks in Blakeney and Morston. Visitor centre at Morston Quay with toilets and cafe. Boat trips to the seal colony operate from Morston. Waymarked trails and observation hides. National Trust facilities.
Car parks in Blakeney and Morston. Visitor centre at Morston Quay with toilets and cafe. Boat trips to the seal colony operate from Morston. Waymarked trails and observation hides. National Trust facilities.
Exploring Blakeney National Nature Reserve
Blakeney National Nature Reserve is a easy-access reserve in Norfolk. The habitat is primarily Shingle, sand dune and saltmarsh, and the reserve is managed by Natural England and National Trust. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a first-time visitor, the reserve offers a peaceful escape into some of the UK's finest protected landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blakeney National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, there are beach and coastal paths suitable for families. Access to the point is by boat from Morston Quay or by walking along the shingle beach (a long and tiring walk). The saltmarsh paths are flat but can be muddy. Boat trips are the recommended way to see the seals.
What is the best time to visit Blakeney NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities, including seal colonies. Summer for tern colonies and seal pups (common seals pup in June/July, grey seals in November/December). Spring and autumn for migrating waders. Winter for brent geese and wildfowl flocks.
Are dogs allowed at Blakeney National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are not permitted on Blakeney Point between April and August to protect nesting terns. Dogs are allowed on some public paths but must be kept on a lead near livestock and wildlife.
Why Visit Blakeney National Nature Reserve?
Blakeney National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Norfolk, England — one of the UK's finest protected wildlife sites. Browse our full directory of UK nature reserves to discover more sites to visit.
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