Travel Review: Seal spotting in Winterton-on-Sea, Norfolk
Just a 19-minute drive North of the resort town of Great Yarmouth, lies Eva's Lookout. The four bed house in the heart of Winterton Valley looks straight out onto the sea and is situated next to Winterton Dunes, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Not only this but, from November to January, the nearby beaches become home to thousands of grey seals for pupping season, making it the ultimate UK destination for nature lovers.
Eva's Lookout
Rooms
Eva's Lookout is an upside down house, with all four bedrooms on the ground floor and the living space at the top. Which makes perfect sense when you realise just how stunning the view from the upstairs wall-to-wall glass door is - it would be wasted on a room in which you spend most of your time asleep.
Each room has been thoughtfully designed to feel homely and cosy yet modern and clean. There are two large double rooms with en-suites and large patio doors looking out onto the dunes. There are then two further rooms - one with two single beds and one with a bunk bed, making it perfect for young families.
Food and Drink
Eva's Lookout is a self-catered venue, but has a large kitchen that's fully equipped with modern appliances, so it's really easy to host large family-style dinners here.
Alternatively, if you're the sort of person who prefers not to think about cooking while you're on holiday, there are loads of great options for eating out nearby. A short 15-minute countryside walk away lies the dog-friendly Fisherman’s Return pub. Deceivingly large, the venue is the perfect cosy country bolthole, and serves delicious pub food. While it's not the cheapest pub we've ever visited, the portions are large and hearty, so you don't feel shortchanged.
Also in the village you'll find a a fish and chip shop, village shop (with all the essentials) and Poppy’s post office and tea rooms. There's no shortage of food options.
Eva's Lookout
Facilities
Eva's Lookout has everything you could possibly need: the modern kitchen is built around an island with a large oven and there is also a dishwasher, fridge/freezer and microwave. All of which looks out onto a large balcony with a six seat table, a bar barbecue and incredible sea views.
For cooler weather, there is also plenty of room to host indoors, with a large dining area and spacious lounge.
Eva's Lookout
What to do nearby
If you're staying in the winter months, a visit to nearby Horsey beach is a must. Between late November-January, it welcomes thousands of grey seals and their pups for pupping season. It's truly an unforgettable experience and should not be missed.
If you're into outdoors activities, take a day trip to the Norfolk Broads, where you can hire a boat, kayak or paddleboard. Similarly, the surrounding countryside offers great bike tracks for keen cyclists.
For those with young children, the seaside town of Great Yarmouth is only a 19-minute drive away, and features a sandy beach, Sea Life centre and arcade. Kids will also love Wroxham Barns, with a farm, adventure play park and monthly Makers' Market.
Horsey Beach
Best for
Families with young children keen for an outdoorsy getaway.
For more information, or to book, visit wintertoncottages.co.uk
