

Just west of Brancaster beach, tucked into a quiet stretch of shoreline near the golf club, a small colony of common seals has made itself at home. They haul out on the sandbanks around low tide, basking in the sun, shuffling for the best spot, and generally living the good life. From the beach, they’re surprisingly easy to see — about 300–400 metres along from the Royal West Norfolk Golf Clubhouse — and they’re one of those simple coastal pleasures that never gets old. This little group is part of the wider seal population that thrives along the North Norfolk coast, but the Titchwell colony feels wonderfully intimate. On a calm day, you can watch them from the beach without disturbing them: heads bobbing in the shallows, pups practising their dives, adults stretched out like sunbathers who have absolutely no intention of moving for anyone. It’s a reminder of how rich and alive this coastline is. You don’t need a boat trip or binoculars — just a walk, a bit of patience, and a respect for their space. Keep a good distance, stay quiet, and let them get on with their day. They’re wild animals, after all, and that’s exactly what makes seeing them so special. Whether you’re a regular beach walker or visiting for the first time, the Titchwell seals are one of those small, magical encounters that make Brancaster’s coastline feel extraordinary.
Titchwell Seal Colony
