Many activities in Blakeney are centred around the Quay with sailing, kayaking, birdwatching, the coastal footpath, and traditional seaside pleasures such as fishing for crabs (or ‘ghillying’ as it is known locally), going for a paddle and having an ice cream.
Tickets can be purchased here for the famous Seal Trips out to Blakeney Point, although do note that most of the trips depart from nearby Morston Quay. Blakeney has much to offer to everyone visiting the Village, with something for all ages and interests.
During the summer months the Quay is host to the Sailing Club Regatta and the annual Blakeney Aquatic Sports Day, where anyone can enter a number of events from sandcastle building and ‘ghilly’ catching competitions to swimming races, the tug of war and the infamous ‘Greasy pole’ challenge!
Every year the Fun Fair visits us down at the quayside Carnser Car Park for a week in August. In October the Carnser Car Park is the home of the annual Fireworks and Bonfire event with fun fair rides, fundraising stalls and hot food – always a great night out. The dates of these events are set according to the tides so check our events guide for more information.
Car parking spaces are also lost during these events so check our car parking guide. the
Opposite the Quay is the historical Guildhall which dates back to the 14th Century. Originally a two storey building, only the undercroft, or basement, remains but it is still a fascinating piece of mediaeval architecture and a cool place to shelter on a hot day! Also of historical interest in the village is the prominent St Nicholas’ Church which sits just back from the main road as you head towards Cley. Notable for it’s second tower which was used as a beacon when Blakeney was a well-used sea port, the church has many interesting features and welcomes visitors every day of the week.
Blakeney is a popular base for walking holidays and from Blakeney Quay the coastal path can be walked through to Morston, Stiffkey to the west or east towards Cley and Salthouse. Inland from Blakeney you will find the villages of Wiveton and Langham, all of which are also beautiful places to visit. If you wish to walk out to Blakeney Point however, then you will need to start out from Cley Beach. Should all that walking prove too much then you can always take a trip on the Coasthopper bus which runs the full length of the North Norfolk coast from King’s Lynn to Cromer and is a regular and reliable service.
In addition to the coast path walks to Morston and Cley there are three local walks, the Blakeney Village Walking Trail of one mile, the Blakeney Circular walk of 7.5 miles and the Cley Heritage Walk.
Looking for something relaxing, gentle and fun to do on a Tuesday evening? Then why not come along to Blakeney Village Hall and have a go at ‘Carpet Bowls’? Starting at 7pm each week. Not only will you have fun and meet new faces, they even give you cake and a cuppa!