Seal Watching Near Flamborough
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Seal Watching Near Flamborough
Seal Watching Near Flamborough – A Wildlife Treat for LuckyPaws Visitors
If you’re staying at LuckyPaws Holiday Home, you’re in for a real treat. Just a short drive from the site, the spectacular Yorkshire coastline around Flamborough Head offers one of the best chances in Britain to see wild seals in their natural habitat. The area is home to both grey seals and common (harbour) seals, and spotting them resting on the rocks or bobbing in the surf is a magical experience.
Grey Seals – The Larger Locals: Seal Watching Near Flamborough
The grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) is the larger of the two species you’ll find around the coast. They’re easy to recognise by their long, dog-like noses and parallel nostrils. Their coats are a patchwork of light and dark grey, and they have an unmistakable presence when you see them sprawled out along the shore.
These seals are especially active in autumn, which is their breeding season on the east coast of England. During this time, the beaches near Flamborough and Bempton can host dozens of seals at once, with mothers nursing their fluffy white pups. If you’re lucky enough to visit then, keep a respectful distance and enjoy the sight through binoculars — it’s something truly special.
Common (Harbour) Seals – The Smaller Neighbours
The Common Seal (Phoca vitulina) is smaller and has a shorter, rounder face with V-shaped nostrils. Their coats tend to be lighter, often with ring-like spots. These seals prefer sandy beaches or sheltered bays and are more commonly seen in summer, when they give birth to their pups.
Although fewer in number along the Flamborough stretch, they’re still a delight to watch. Look for them lounging on sandbanks or popping their heads out of the water like curious swimmers.
When to Visit: Seal Watching Near Flamborough
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for seeing common seals and their pups, plus calmer weather for walking the coastal paths.
- Autumn (September to November): The best time for grey seals, as they gather to breed and rest ashore in impressive numbers.
- Winter: Some seals remain, but the paths can get slippery and the weather unpredictable, so take extra care.
- Spring: Quieter for seals, but still a lovely time for coastal walks and birdwatching.
Accessibility and Safety: Seal Watching Near Flamborough
It’s worth noting that some of the paths leading to the best viewing spots can be steep, uneven, or slippery, especially after rain. They’re not always suitable for people with limited mobility or bad knees — I speak from experience there! If you struggle with steep slopes, stick to the main viewing points and bring walking poles for extra stability.
Also, please remember to keep dogs on leads and avoid getting too close to the seals. They’re easily disturbed, and even from a distance you can enjoy watching them without causing any stress.
A Coastal Gem for Nature-Lovers: Seal Watching Near Flamborough
Flamborough Head is a haven for wildlife — not just seals but also puffins, kittiwakes, gannets, and other seabirds that thrive on the chalk cliffs. The combination of rugged coastline, sea breeze, and the chance of seeing these graceful marine mammals makes it a must-see for anyone staying at LuckyPaws.
The UK is home to around 38% of the world’s grey seal population, so you really are in a world-class spot for seal watching. Whether you visit in summer or autumn, you’re guaranteed to come away with lasting memories and maybe even a few great photos to share.
So next time you’re at LuckyPaws Holiday Home, pack your binoculars, wear sturdy shoes, and set off to explore the wonderful world of Yorkshire’s coastal wildlife. You’ll soon see why visitors return year after year for another glimpse of these gentle, watchful faces along the shore.
Eric Roberts runs Pellon Tyres in Halifax — but when he’s not fixing cars and keeping folks on the road, you’ll find him chilling out by the sea at his LuckyPaws Holiday Home .