Blakeney Point is one of the finest coastal walks in England — a long shingle spit stretching out into the North Sea where hundreds of grey seals haul out year-round. This guide covers everything: how to get there, the best route, when to go, and what to bring.
Why Blakeney Point is Special
Blakeney Point is a four-mile shingle spit managed by the National Trust, stretching westward from Cley-next-the-Sea into the North Sea. It's one of the most important nature reserves on the Norfolk coast — home to the largest grey seal colony in England, a nationally significant tern nesting site in summer, and some of the most dramatic coastal scenery you'll find anywhere in the country.
Unlike most "must-see" Norfolk destinations, Blakeney Point genuinely delivers. The walk out along the shingle is meditative and wild, the seals are extraordinary up close, and the return along the landward edge through the salt marshes is quietly beautiful. It is, simply, one of the best days out in Norfolk.
Getting There
By Car
The best starting point is Cley Beach car park (NR25 7RZ) or Morston Quay (NR25 7BH) for a shorter version. Cley Beach car park sits right at the start of the shingle spit and is the classic starting point for the full walk. Parking costs a few pounds — bring change or use the PayByPhone app.
By Bus
The Coasthopper bus runs along the North Norfolk coast between Kings Lynn and Cromer, stopping at Cley and Blakeney village. It's a brilliant way to do a linear walk — get on at one end and off at the other. Check current timetables at coasthopper.co.uk.
Arrive before 9am in summer to get a parking space at Cley Beach. By 10am on a sunny weekend it's full. Alternatively, park in Blakeney village and walk the salt marsh path to Morston Quay — adds a gorgeous 2 miles to the walk.
The Route
Stage 1: Cley Beach to the Point (3.5 miles)
From the car park, head west along the top of the shingle ridge. The walking is slower than it looks — shingle is hard underfoot — but the views are extraordinary from the start. To your left, the North Sea. To your right, the vast Cley Marshes nature reserve, one of the best birdwatching sites in Britain.
Follow the ridge all the way to the very tip of the Point. The National Trust has a small information hut here, staffed by volunteers in summer. This is where you'll find the seals.
Stage 2: The Seal Colony
Grey seals haul out on the sand and shingle around the Point in large numbers year-round. In winter (November–January) it's pupping season — you'll see tiny white seal pups being nursed. In summer the adults are present in good numbers, lolling about with magnificent indifference to walkers.
⚠️ Keep your distance: Stay at least 10 metres from seals at all times. Never approach pups — their mothers are nearby. Dogs must be kept on leads. Getting too close causes stress to the animals and is strongly discouraged by the National Trust wardens.
Stage 3: Return via the Salt Marshes (3.5 miles)
Rather than returning the same way, take the landward edge of the spit on the way back. This path winds through the salt marshes — a completely different landscape, sheltered and green, rich with samphire, sea lavender and wading birds. It's genuinely magical on a calm day.
Best Time to Visit
What to Bring
The shingle walk is exposed and the weather on the North Norfolk coast changes quickly. Here's what we recommend:
Nearby: Make a Day of It
- Cley Windmill — iconic North Norfolk landmark, lovely café inside
- Blakeney village — excellent pubs, the White Horse is outstanding
- Cley Marshes Visitor Centre — Norfolk Wildlife Trust reserve, brilliant for birds
- Morston Quay boat trips — if you don't fancy the walk, NT runs seal boat trips
In June and July, marsh samphire grows abundantly along the salt marsh paths. It's perfectly legal to pick small amounts for personal use. Blanch it briefly and serve with butter — it tastes of the sea and is one of Norfolk's great wild foods.
Final Thoughts
Blakeney Point is not a walk to rush. Take your time on the shingle, sit with the seals, eat your sandwiches looking out to sea. This is what Norfolk's coast is all about — wild, uncrowded (if you time it right), and genuinely unforgettable.
It's one of those walks that stays with you. We've done it in every season and it's never the same twice.