Exploring Blakeney National Nature Reserve: A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts Blakeney nature reserve

Blakeney National Nature Reserve, nestled along the picturesque North Norfolk coast, is a sanctuary of incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. This captivating reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

In this blog, we’ll be delving into what you’ll uncover and explore during your visit to Blakeney national nature reserve

A bird lovers delight

Blakeney’s national park is bursting with avian diversity, making this the perfect spot for avid bird watchers, or anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of busy life and unwind in nature.

From iconic wading birds like avocets and oystercatchers, to graceful marsh harriers and little terns, the nature reserve supports part of Britain’s largest sandwich tern colony. With an array of other breeding bird species also here, you’ll be sure to see the wildlife enjoying their beautiful habitat.

Seal colonies

Blakeney is home to the largest colony of grey seals within England. In fact, the National Trust reports that between October and January around 4000 pups are born here!

It’s not possible to visit them on foot, so make sure to book a boat trip to see them in their element. Oh, and watch this video here to learn what you can expect during your visit and just how Blakeney has become home to the largest colony. Want to know more about the seal colony here in Blakeney, read our blog.

Scenic trails and coastal walks

A trip to Blakeney is not complete without exploring the trails and coastal walks offered in abundance here. You can wind your way through the salt marshes, the sand dunes and the reed beds, exploring the diverse ecosystems and enjoying the stunning vistas of the North Norfolk coastline. Along these trails you’ll find unique plant species and hopefully spot the wildlife along the way.

Seasonal Highlights: Wildlife Spectacles and Migration Patterns

Blakeney is a beautiful spot all year round, but if you’re visiting The Manor during spring or autumn then you’ll be able to uncover a seasonal highlight as the bird migrations occur.

As the birds migrate across the continent, Friary Hill here in Blakeney is the first spot they reach, making it ideal to stop and rest – which is actually why Friary Hill is known locally as the ideal spot for birdwatching.

Blakeney Freshes – a wetland haven

When you’re visiting north Norfolk, a visit to the Blakeney Freshes is a must. The mosaic of lagoons, grazing marshes and the freshwater habitats are bursting with wildlife.

The lapwings and avocets raise their chicks in the surrounding fields, so don’t stray off the beaten tracks here. You’ll also need to listen out for the tell-tale splash of the otters and water voles who call this home.

If you’re visiting us in the winter months then you’ll be in the heart of the feeding and roosting spot for the pink-footed and Brent geese that migrate to North Norfolk when the weather turns colder.