Winterton - Horsey Dunes

Wild grey seals hauled out on the beach greet you at this spectacular stretch of Norfolk coastline between Winterton and Horsey. The dunes here shift and change with every storm, creating an ever-evolving landscape that feels properly remote despite being just minutes from Great Yarmouth. During pupping season from November through February, hundreds of seals gather to give birth - it's one of the best wildlife spectacles in East Anglia.

Families with older children will love the adventure of exploring the sandy paths, though pushchairs will struggle in the soft sand. The seals are the main draw, but don't overlook the brilliant birdwatching opportunities. Sandwich terns, little egrets and marsh harriers all make regular appearances.

Access is free and the reserve is open year-round, though seal numbers peak in winter months. Allow at least two hours to walk the main trails and reach the best viewpoints. Early morning visits offer the calmest seals and fewer crowds.

Staying at Richardson's Hemsby Beach Holiday Park puts you closest to the action, while Waxham Sands Holiday Park offers easy access to both the dunes and the broader Norfolk coast. The combination of seals, shifting sands and big skies makes this a proper Norfolk experience that'll stick with you long after your holiday ends.