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Morston Quay Blakeney

4.6
·770 reviews·, United Kingdom

Morston Quay: Gateway to Blakeney Point's seal colonies, offering picturesque coastal walks and boat trips.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peak seal pup season

CrowdHigh
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Morston Quay - Image 1

Morston Quay Blakeney

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peak seal pup season

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Morston Quay: Gateway to Blakeney Point's seal colonies, offering picturesque coastal walks and boat trips.

4.6
(770 reviews)

"A great place to visit to see the seals. Absolutely brilliant and the crew were knowledgeable and friendly."

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TIP

Book Seal Trips Ahead

Secure your spot on a seal boat trip by booking in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

National Trust Parking

NT members get free parking at Morston Quay, a great perk for seal trip visitors. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seal Safari Boat Trip

Seal Safari Boat Trip

Morston Quay

Witness England's largest grey seal colony up close on a memorable boat excursion.

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Blakeney Point

Blakeney Point

Blakeney Point

Explore this National Trust site, home to diverse wildlife and stunning coastal vistas.

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Morston Quay

Morston Quay

Morston Quay

The charming departure point for seal trips, offering picturesque views and a relaxed atmosphere.

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Coastal Walks

Coastal Walks

North Norfolk Coast Path

Enjoy scenic walks along the coast, with opportunities for photography and nature observation.

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Planning Your Visit

Seal Trip Booking

Book your seal trip in advance, especially during peak season. Several boat operators depart from Morston Quay, and while prices are often similar, popular times fill up fast. Consider National Trust membership for free parking. InstagramReddit

Best Time for Seals & Crowds

Visit between 9-11 AM for peak seal viewing, but expect crowds. For a quieter experience, consider late afternoons or off-peak seasons. Seals are visible year-round, with pups appearing in summer and winter. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Peak seal pup season
Crowd
High
When
Late afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour
Crowd
Low
When
Winter
Why
Grey seal pups visible
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thank you so much! Heres a photo from Blakeney #sunset #landscapephotography #photography #blakeney
@brynditheridge
661 likes • 4.1K views

Book Seal Trips Ahead

Secure your spot on a seal boat trip by booking in advance, especially during busy periods. InstagramReddit :ticket:

National Trust Parking

NT members get free parking at Morston Quay, a great perk for seal trip visitors. InstagramReddit :car:

Blakeney and Cley in less than a minute. #northnorfolk #visitengland #norfolk #visitbritain #blakeney #cley #sightseeing #fyp #relax #xmasholidays #chill #destress #calm
@julesknightofficial
475 likes • 10.1K views
M O R S T O N H A L L AD| Still beaming about our wonderful stay at @morstonhallhotel on Friday night. This beautiful hotel, owned by chef Galton Blackiston, is a stones throw from Morston Quay with access to the coastal path. Enjoy a seven course tasting menu from a restaurant that has held its Michelin star for the past 25 years. I’m going to be sharing more details about our stay and the...
girlaroundnorthnorfolk
228 likes • 9.1K views

Pack for All Weather

Norfolk coast weather can change quickly; bring layers and waterproofs for your trip. TikTok :cloud:

Dog-Friendly Walks

Enjoy the coastal paths with your dog, but keep them on a lead near wildlife. Reddit :dog:

A great trip out with @templesealtrips at Morston Quay this morning! 🦭
norfolkstay
56 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Seal Trips Ahead

Secure your spot on a seal boat trip by booking in advance, especially during busy periods. InstagramReddit :ticket:

National Trust Parking

NT members get free parking at Morston Quay, a great perk for seal trip visitors. InstagramReddit :car:

Pack for All Weather

Norfolk coast weather can change quickly; bring layers and waterproofs for your trip. TikTok :cloud:

Dog-Friendly Walks

Enjoy the coastal paths with your dog, but keep them on a lead near wildlife. Reddit :dog:

Crabbing at Blakeney Quay

A fun family activity! Bring crabbing lines and bait to try your luck at Blakeney Quay. Instagram :fishingpoleand_வத:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(770 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Morston Quay for its exceptional seal trip experiences, highlighting the knowledgeable and friendly boat crews. The natural beauty of the location and the opportunity to see wildlife up close are major draws. Some visitors note that the area can get crowded, particularly during peak times, and public transport options are limited.

"A great place to visit to see the seals. I supported 4 individuals with learning disabilities. Temple seal tours staff were extremely helpful and considerate. The national trust staff are amazing that's you Kathy marsh"

Dave Lowe

"Took a wonderful boat trip to view seals. Absolutely brilliant and the crew that took us out on the boat were very knowledgeable and very friendly. A great boating experience."

william wren

"Came here to see the seals. Great place for walking with or without the dog. Clean facilities & free parking for NT members"

G. Snowdon

What People Like

Incredible seal encounters
Knowledgeable boat crews
Beautiful coastal scenery

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

While driving is the most direct route, public transport is possible but requires planning. Buses run from Norwich to Fakenham, then a local bus to Morston. It's challenging to do as a same-day round trip without a car. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Morston Quay. National Trust members can park for free, while others will need to pay. InstagramReddit

It's possible but difficult to complete a same-day round trip from Norwich by public transport alone. You'll likely need to combine bus routes and potentially arrange a taxi for the final leg. Reddit

Driving is the most convenient option for reaching Morston Quay, offering flexibility for exploring the North Norfolk coast. TikTok

While not always readily available, pre-booking a local taxi service is advisable if you are relying on public transport and need onward travel.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Prices for seal trips are generally consistent across operators, around £20-£25 per adult. Booking in advance is recommended. InstagramReddit

Yes, advance booking is highly advisable, especially during peak season (summer) and weekends, as trips can sell out. Instagram+1

Yes, several companies operate seal trips from Morston Quay, including Beans Seal Trips, Temple Seal Tours, and others. Instagram+1

Morston Quay itself is accessible at all times. However, boat trip operating hours vary by company and season. Check individual operator schedules. TikTok

Blakeney Point is a National Trust site. While access to the point is free, parking at Morston Quay requires payment unless you are a National Trust member. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Morston Quay is primarily the departure point for seal trips. It's also a lovely spot for walking, enjoying the views, and visiting the National Trust kiosk for refreshments. Instagram+1

Seals are present year-round. Common seals can be seen with pups between June and August, and grey seal pups appear later in the year. Peak viewing is often between 9 AM and 11 AM. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can walk to Blakeney Point along the coastal path, but it's a significant distance. Taking a boat trip is the most common and efficient way to visit the seal colony. Instagram

Yes, there are clean facilities available, including a National Trust kiosk selling drinks, cakes, and ice cream. Reddit

Absolutely! Morston Quay and the surrounding creeks offer beautiful landscape and wildlife photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The National Trust kiosk at Morston Quay offers drinks, cakes, and ice cream. For more substantial meals, the nearby village of Blakeney has pubs and restaurants, and Morston Hall offers fine dining. InstagramReddit+1

The National Trust kiosk provides refreshments like hot chocolate, coffee, cakes, and ice cream, perfect for a quick stop. Instagram+1

Yes, establishments like 2 Magpies Bakery, a short drive away, offer full English breakfasts and other hearty meals. Instagram

Morston Hall is a highly-rated hotel and restaurant, known for its Michelin-starred seven-course tasting menu, offering a fine dining experience. Instagram

Yes, Blakeney village offers several pubs and eateries that are generally family-friendly. Some accommodations also offer dining with kids-eat-free deals. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Morston Quay itself offers lovely views of the creeks and salt marshes. The boat trips provide unique angles of the seals and the coastline. TikTokInstagram+1

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for landscape photography around Morston Quay and the North Norfolk coast. TikTokInstagram

The primary photographic subject is the large colony of grey and common seals at Blakeney Point. Birdlife is also abundant in the salt marshes. Instagram+1

A telephoto lens is recommended for capturing clear shots of the seals from the boat, as they can be some distance away. TikTok

While specific photography tours might be limited, local guides on seal trips often share insights that can enhance your photographic experience. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Morston Quay is a fantastic destination for families. The seal trips are a huge hit with children, offering an exciting wildlife encounter. Instagram+2 Crabbing at Blakeney Quay is another classic family fun activity. Instagram The National Trust kiosk at Morston Quay provides convenient snacks and refreshments. Reddit Consider booking accommodation in Blakeney, as some places offer 'kids eat free' deals. Instagram

When planning your visit, remember that the boat trips can be a bit bumpy, so ensure children are comfortable with that. The coastal paths are generally safe for walking, but always supervise young children closely, especially near the water. The overall experience is educational and engaging, making it a memorable day out for the whole family.

🐶 Dog Owners

Morston Quay and the surrounding North Norfolk Coast Path are very dog-friendly. Your canine companions will love exploring the scenic walking routes and enjoying the fresh sea air. Reddit Remember to keep dogs on a lead, especially when near wildlife or on the boat trips, as per local regulations and for the safety of the seals. Reddit

While dogs are generally welcome on the boat trips, it's always best to confirm with the specific operator beforehand. Many pubs and cafes in the nearby village of Blakeney also welcome well-behaved dogs, making it easy to find a place to rest and refuel after your adventures.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Morston Quay and Blakeney Point are a photographer's paradise. The dramatic coastal landscapes, tidal creeks, and abundant wildlife offer endless opportunities. TikTokInstagram+1 The seal colonies provide incredible subjects, especially during the pupping seasons. Instagram Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, creating stunning atmospheric shots. TikTokInstagram

When on the seal trips, a telephoto lens is highly recommended to capture detailed shots of the seals from the boat. TikTok Don't forget to capture the charming scenes at Morston Quay itself, from the boats to the marshland. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping coastal vistas. The changing tides also offer dynamic photographic possibilities throughout the day.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Seal Trips

The main draw to Morston Quay is undoubtedly the boat trips to see the seals at Blakeney Point. These excursions offer a chance to witness England's largest grey seal colony in its natural habitat. Several boat operators, including Beans Seal Trips and Temple Seal Tours, depart regularly from the quay. Trips typically last about an hour and provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. It's advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, as these trips are very popular. Instagram+3

Seals are present year-round, with common seals and their pups visible from June to August, and grey seal pups appearing later in the year. The best viewing times are often between 9 AM and 11 AM, though this can also be the busiest period. The boat crews are knowledgeable and will guide you to the best viewing spots, sharing interesting facts about the seals and the local environment. InstagramReddit

For National Trust members, parking at Morston Quay is free, which is a significant benefit. Even if you're not a member, the parking fee is reasonable, and the experience of seeing these magnificent creatures up close is well worth it. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, as it can be breezy and cooler on the water. Instagram

Exploring Morston Quay and Beyond

Morston Quay itself is a picturesque and tranquil spot, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier Blakeney Quay. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the views of the salt marshes and tidal creeks. The National Trust kiosk here is a charming stop for a coffee, cake, or ice cream, making it an ideal place to pause and soak in the coastal scenery. Instagram+1

From Morston Quay, you can easily access the North Norfolk Coast Path, which is excellent for walking and dog-walking. The path offers stunning vistas and opportunities to observe local birdlife. For those interested in a bit more activity, crabbing at the nearby Blakeney Quay is a classic seaside pastime that families often enjoy. InstagramReddit

For a more upscale experience, the renowned Morston Hall, a Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel, is just a stone's throw away, offering a gourmet dining experience. This proximity allows visitors to combine a day of wildlife watching and coastal exploration with a touch of luxury. Instagram

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