Welcome to Blakeney, a place where the beauty of the Norfolk coastline and the charm of a historic village converge to create a truly remarkable destination. Come along as we wander through Blakeney, uncovering its secret gems and soaking up the charm around every corner.
Blakeney promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing for more. So, let me share the best things to do in Blakeney, Norfolk.
Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter here, so you can find out what’s happening around Norfolk each week.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Please see disclosure for more information.
Where is Blakeney located?
Blakeney is located on the North Norfolk coast. It sits within the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is part of the larger Blakeney Point Nature Reserve. The village is nestled between Cley-next-the-Sea and Morston.
History of Blakeney
Blakeney’s history is filled with tales of trade, piracy, and shifting fortunes. Once a thriving medieval port, it was known for its salt fish trade, supplying London and even Iceland. The village also had a rebellious streak. Local pirates looted ships in the 12th century and later refused to send a vessel to fight the Spanish Armada.
Blakeney first appeared in the Domesday Book as Snitterley, with its current name emerging in the 13th century. While nearby ports like Cley and Wiveton were lost to silt in the 17th century, Blakeney held on a little longer. Eventually, though, larger ships outgrew the harbour, and trade declined.
Today, the once-bustling port has become a peaceful coastal retreat. Its silted harbour has given way to vast salt marshes, now a haven for wildlife and walkers. The flint cottages and historic buildings still stand, offering a glimpse into Blakeney’s seafaring past.
Things to Do in Blakeney
Blakeney may be small, but it has plenty to offer visitors. From scenic walks to historical landmarks, this village has it all. Join me as we uncover the best things to do in Blakeney.
#1 Take a Walk
Take in the beauty and tranquillity of Blakeney with a scenic walk. With plenty of routes to choose from, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the area.
The Norfolk Coast Path conveniently passes through Blakeney Quay, so you could opt to walk a section of this renowned coastal trail, and then hop on the Coasthopper bus for a convenient return. Gather all the information you need to plan your Norfolk Coast Path adventure and make the most of this remarkable hiking experience with this comprehensive guidebook.
For those seeking a circular route, a popular choice is the 7.5-mile (12 km) walk that follows sea defence walls, charming roads, and scenic rights of way. It also takes you through the neighbouring villages of Cley and Wiveton. Discover more details about this walk here.
#2 See the Seals
Prepare for an awe-inspiring wildlife encounter at Blakeney Point, where you’ll discover one of the largest seal colonies in England. To see the seals in their natural habitat, a boat tour is a must as you can’t reach the area on foot or by car.
Departing from Morston Quay, you have several reputable boat companies to choose from. Keep in mind that some of these companies require ticket collection at Blakeney Quay. Due to their popularity, it’s advisable to book your tour in advance to secure your spot.
If you’re need guidance on selecting the right boat company, check out my reviews of Bishop’s Boats and John Bean Boat Trips with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
RELATED: Best Places to See Seals in Norfolk
#3 Go Crabbing
Try your hand at crabbing at Blakeney Quay, one of the best spots for it. Just drop your line in the water, add some bait, and see what you can catch.
If you don’t already have your own gear, you can purchase crabbing supplies in the village, get this environmentally-friendly option from Amazon, or make your own, just don’t use hooks. A small piece of raw smoked bacon makes excellent bait.
Keep in mind that the crabs you’ll catch, known as Gilly crabs, are not edible. Remember to handle them with care, place them in a bucket with water, and release them back into the water gently.
#4 Visit the Blakeney Guildhall
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the remains of the prosperous merchant house in Blakeney. With its remarkable 15th century brick-vaulted undercroft, this building later served as the guildhall for the village’s fish merchants.
Although access to the Guildhall’s interior is currently restricted (as of August 2022), you can still catch a glimpse through a grille in the door or the windows. This significant site, managed by English Heritage, is accessible during reasonable daylight hours.
#5 Take in the Views
Make your way up Mariner’s Hill, conveniently located across the street from the Quay and next to the Guildhall. Use the stairs by the Guildhall to make the climb easier. Once you reach the top, find a comfy spot on one of the benches and take in the views of the Quay and marshland. You’ll be treated to a sight of numerous boats and maybe even spot some birds soaring above.
Mariner’s Hill also has an interesting history. It’s believed to have been a lookout or beacon mount during medieval or post-medieval times. During World War II an air raid shelter was built inside the hill.
#6 Feed the Ducks
Head over to the Blakeney Conservation Duck Pond for a delightful duck feeding experience. You’ll encounter a variety of ducks and geese, including mandarin ducks, shelducks, teals, wigeons, and maybe even an emperor goose!
Remember, they kindly request that you avoid feeding them bread. Instead, if you’d like to treat them, you can purchase duck food from convenient spots like Samantha Rose at Carnser car park, Seagulls and Samphire at Blakeney Quay, Blakeney Deli on High Street, or Weston’s Fish on Westgate Street.
If you prefer to simply watch, there are several benches along the side offering a prime view. Take a seat, enjoy the scene, and let the feathered friends entertain you. It’s a charming and relaxing activity for all ages.
#7 Browse the Art Galleries
You will want to check out the vibrant art scene in Blakeney by visiting two galleries: The Flint Art Gallery and The Quay Art Gallery. Both offer unique experiences that art enthusiasts will cherish.
Visit The Flint Art Gallery to explore their collection of contemporary fine art. Showcasing work from both established and emerging artists, the gallery features paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and glass pieces, many inspired by North Norfolk’s landscapes.
Quay Art is a printmaker’s gallery specialising in original linocuts, etchings, collagraphs, and woodcuts. Alongside coastal paintings, ceramics, glass art, sculptures, and artisan jewellery, the gallery celebrates the beauty of the coast and countryside. You can also visit their Wells-next-the-Sea location to see more of their work.
#8 Have Afternoon Tea
Enjoy a classic afternoon tea in the heart of Blakeney at The Blakeney Hotel or Blakeney Manor Coastal Hotel.
Blakeney Manor Coastal Hotel serves a delicious spread of finger sandwiches, cakes, and traditional scones with clotted cream and jam, alongside unlimited tea or coffee. For something extra special, you can upgrade to a sparkling afternoon tea.
The Blakeney Hotel offers a similar treat with sandwiches, patisserie, fruit scones, and a pot of tea or coffee. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy it, as afternoon tea is served in the Boat Room, Restaurant, and Bar. Hotel guests can also take in the views from the Lookout or Terrace.
#9 Relax at a Pub
When in Blakeney, make sure to visit one of its beloved pubs for a taste of local charm and a refreshing drink. The town has two popular establishments: The White Horse and The Kings Arms.
Step into The White Horse, where you can enjoy Adnams beer, wine, or spirits. This pub features a spacious and inviting bar area, perfect for mingling and enjoying a lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more relaxed setting, head to the rear of the pub, where you’ll discover a light and airy conservatory and a heavenly courtyard.
For a touch of history and Georgian elegance, venture to The Kings Arms. This venerable Norfolk inn and B&B, standing for over 250 years, sits just a stone’s throw from Blakeney Quay. A favourite among both locals and visitors, The Kings Arms has a well-appointed beer garden, adorned with sturdy bench tables and even swings for the little ones. On sunny days, it’s a popular gathering place.
Things to Do Near Blakeney
Don’t limit your exploration to just Blakeney! The surrounding area is brimming with special spots that are well worth a visit. Expand your horizons and consider checking out these nearby gems less than a 30 minute drive away.
Holt
Holt, with its Georgian architecture, has a rich past dating back to Roman times. After the Great Fire of Holt in 1708, it was rebuilt into the captivating place it is today.
Holt is a haven for foodies, art enthusiasts, shoppers, and antique lovers. Indulge in the culinary delights of Bakers & Larners’ renowned food hall, described as the East Anglian counterpart of Fortnum and Mason. Treat yourself to a special afternoon tea experience at Byfords or The Folly.
Explore the town centre’s art galleries and antique shops, while following the intriguing Owl Trail with its pavement plaques that lead you to historic sites.
For a delightful excursion just outside of Holt, visit the North Norfolk Railway station, home to a small museum. Hop on the Poppy Line, offering steam and diesel train services that will take you to the seaside town of Sheringham. Keep an eye out for their special events, including dining trains and behind-the-scenes tours.
Cley-next-the-sea
Venture to Cley-next-the-Sea and uncover its rich history and natural beauty. Once a thriving medieval port and a smugglers’ haven, Cley-next-the-Sea is now renowned for its nature reserve and iconic windmill.
Explore Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Cley Marshes, their oldest reserve, which seamlessly connects with Salthouse, forming a popular birdwatching site attracting over 110,000 annual visitors.
Capture the charm of Cley Windmill, a picturesque landmark converted into a guesthouse and wedding venue. Discover St. Margaret’s Church, a 13th-century gem, and indulge in the village’s delightful offerings like the smokehouse, bookshop, deli, and the George and the Dragon pub.
Wells-Next-the-Sea
Wells is a charming seaside town, best known for its long row of beach huts on stilts on its huge sandy beach. The town of Wells-Next-the-Sea is actually about a mile from the beach by the harbour. The quayside area has several historic buildings including the iconic granary building.
Wells-Next-the-Sea is also a hotspot for the arts in North Norfolk. The town has several art galleries and the relatively new Wells Maltings, an arts, heritage and community centre inside a Grade-II listed Maltings building.
Read about more things to do in Wells-Next-The-Sea.
Warham Camp
The earthworks that make up Warham Camp Iron Age Hill Fort were built over 2000 years ago by the Iceni Tribe. There were two huge circular banks and ditches encompassing 1.5 hectares by a bend in the River Stiffkey (pronounced Stewkey).
Today, the earthworks are no longer quite a full circle. Still, you can walk on what is left and take in some breathtaking views of the countryside.
It is free to visit. Get more information about going to Warham Camp.
Binham Priory
If you’re up for a historical and serene outing, make sure to visit Binham Priory. This place has been a hub of worship for over 800 years! While it may have faced closure and partial dismantling during the dissolution of the monasteries, the nave still stands proudly as the Binham parish church.
Take your time to wander around the priory’s enchanting ruins, soaking in the ancient atmosphere. Don’t forget to step inside the parish church itself, where you’ll discover even more fascinating history. If the weather permits, why not pack a delightful picnic and enjoy it in the peaceful surroundings? It’s the perfect way to make the most of this lovely spot.
Get more information about visiting here.
Muckelburgh Military Collection
Discover the Muckleburgh Military Collection in Weybourne, a museum showcasing tanks, armoured cars, uniforms, weapons, and more that is a must for military enthusiasts. It’s one of the country’s largest privately owned military museums, offering an immersive experience in military history. Explore artillery, machine guns, missiles, ships, and intricate land warfare models.
It’s only open from early April to late October. The tank driving experience is not included in your admission. You need to book that in advance by posting the form that can be downloaded here.
How Long Should You Spend in Blakeney?
You can explore the highlights of Blakeney in a day. Within this timeframe, you can stroll along the quayside, visit local shops, enjoy a boat trip to Blakeney Point to see the seals, and enjoy the local pubs. While a longer stay allows for a more leisurely experience and gives you time to see the surrounding area, a day is sufficient to get a taste of Blakeney’s charm.
Is Blakeney Good for Kids?
Blakeney is a fun-filled destination for the whole family. Kids will enjoy crabbing, seeing seals up close on boat trips and going on family-friendly walks. Get more family-friendly ideas in our post about the best things to do in Norfolk with kids.
Where to Stay in Blakeney
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Blakeney, you’ll be delighted by the highly rated accommodation options available. Whether you’re seeking luxury or the comforts of a holiday home, Blakeney has something to suit every preference.
For those desiring a touch of indulgence, consider the elegant Blakeney Hotel or the Blakeney Manor Coastal Hotel. These luxury establishments offer a range of amenities and impeccable service.
Alternatively, if you prefer the privacy and flexibility of a holiday home, Blakeney offers an array of delightful options. From cosy cottages to houses with gardens, you’ll find the perfect home away from home to suit your needs. See the options for holiday homes in Blakeney here.
The Blakeney Hotel
The Blakeney Hotel is a privately owned, 4-star establishment with panoramic views of the salt marshes and Blakeney Point. It offers stylishly decorated rooms, a renowned restaurant with estuary views, and leisure facilities including an indoor pool and games room.
Read Tripadvisor reviews here.
The Blakeney Manor Coastal Hotel
Escape to The Blakeney Manor Coastal Hotel & Inn for a relaxing getaway. Stay in stylish rooms with modern comforts, free WiFi, and private parking. Enjoy delicious British cuisine with options for all dietary needs, and start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore Blakeney.
Book your stay here now for comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality.
Read Tripadvisor reviews here.
How to Get to Blakeney
Blakeney enjoys a prime location just off the A149 between Morston and Cley-next-the-sea. If you’re arriving by car, you have a couple of parking options to choose from. The Blakeney Quay car park offers free parking for National Trust members, while the Village Hall Car Park on Langham Road provides free parking for everyone.
While Blakeney doesn’t have its own railway station, the village is conveniently situated along the Coasthopper bus line. If you prefer traveling by train, you can hop on a train to Sheringham and then catch the Coasthopper bus to Blakeney.
Is Blakeney Worth Visiting?
Blakeney is definitely worth a visit. This charming village on the Norfolk coastline offers beautiful natural landscapes, a rich historical heritage, and a tranquil ambiance. Explore the salt marshes and spot seals at Blakeney Point, wander through picturesque streets and discover the village’s history. You won’t want to leave.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you. Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit. The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.