The UK is home to some incredible coastal wildlife, and spotting puffins and seals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.
Of course, they’re not just going to be walking around your local high street. Chances are, you’ll have to venture a bit off the beaten track if you want the chance to see these amazing creatures in person. Thankfully, there are plenty of options around Britain that not only host these animals, but are beautiful in their own right and well worth visiting.
1. Farne Islands, Northumberland
The Farne Islands are one of the UK’s top spots for seeing puffins and seals. This group of islands off the Northumberland coast is home to thousands of puffins during the breeding season, which typically runs from April to July. You can also spot grey seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the surrounding waters year-round. Boat tours from Seahouses provide easy access to the islands, offering fantastic views of the wildlife. Bring your binoculars, as the sheer number of birds and seals in the area is truly breathtaking.
2. Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire
Located off the coast of Wales, Skomer Island is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Puffins flock to the island during spring and summer, making it one of the best places in the UK to see these charismatic birds. The island is also home to seals, often spotted lounging along the shore or playing in the waves. To visit Skomer, take a short boat trip from Martin’s Haven. Once on the island, you can explore walking trails and get close to the puffins, who are remarkably unbothered by human presence.
3. Lundy Island, Devon
Lundy Island, located off the coast of Devon, is another fantastic spot for puffins and seals. The island is part of a marine conservation zone, ensuring that the wildlife here thrives. Puffins are most commonly seen between May and July, while seals are visible year-round. Getting to Lundy involves a ferry trip from Bideford or Ilfracombe, and the island itself is perfect for a day of wildlife watching and scenic walks. Don’t forget to visit the clifftops, where you’ll often see puffins nesting.
4. Blakeney Point, Norfolk
Blakeney Point in Norfolk is best known for its seal colonies, with both grey and common seals calling this area home. During the summer, you’ll often see seal pups along the shoreline, while winter is prime time for spotting adults in larger numbers. While Blakeney isn’t a hotspot for puffins, it’s a must-visit for seal lovers. Boat trips from Morston Quay allow you to get up close to these adorable marine mammals in their natural habitat.
5. Isle of May, Scotland
The Isle of May, located in the Firth of Forth, is a spectacular destination for seeing puffins. During the breeding season, the island is teeming with thousands of these colourful birds. It’s also a great spot to observe seals, particularly along the rocky shores.Take a boat trip from Anstruther or North Berwick to reach the Isle of May. Once there, you can enjoy the island’s rugged beauty and get a closer look at its thriving wildlife population.
6. Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland
Rathlin Island, just off the coast of County Antrim, is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island and a haven for wildlife. Puffins nest here during the summer months, while seals can be found along the island’s rugged coastline year-round. Accessible by ferry from Ballycastle, Rathlin Island is a peaceful and scenic spot that’s perfect for a wildlife-filled day trip. Don’t miss the RSPB Seabird Centre, which offers a great vantage point for birdwatching.
7. St Kilda, Outer Hebrides
St Kilda, a remote archipelago in the Outer Hebrides, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK’s most dramatic wildlife destinations. Puffins nest in large numbers on the cliffs here, while seals can often be seen in the surrounding waters. Due to its remote location, visiting St Kilda requires some planning, but it’s well worth the effort. Boat trips run from the Isle of Harris or the Isle of Skye, offering a rare opportunity to experience this unspoiled natural wonder.
8. South Stack Cliffs, Anglesey
South Stack Cliffs, on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, are a stunning location for wildlife enthusiasts. Puffins can be spotted nesting in the cliffs during the summer, and seals are frequently seen along the coastline. The RSPB South Stack Reserve provides excellent viewing points, and the area is also known for its beautiful coastal scenery. It’s an ideal spot for a day of birdwatching and seal spotting with the whole family.
9. Orkney Islands, Scotland
The Orkney Islands are a haven for both puffins and seals. Puffins nest in the cliffs during the summer months, while seals are a year-round attraction, often seen lounging on the beaches or popping their heads up in the water. Orkney’s wild and remote landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a wildlife adventure. Boat tours and coastal walks offer plenty of opportunities to get up close to the local fauna.
10. Coquet Island, Northumberland
Coquet Island, a small island off the Northumberland coast, is home to a thriving puffin colony. While you can’t set foot on the island, boat trips from Amble allow you to get a great view of the puffins and other seabirds that nest here. The surrounding waters are also home to seals, making this a fantastic spot for a double wildlife encounter. Bring your camera — this little island is bursting with life and offers plenty of photo-worthy moments.
