A Winter Wildlife Adventure: CCUK’s Day Trip to See the Norfolk Seal Pups

There is something truly special about escaping the London bustle to witness nature in its most raw and beautiful state. Back in January, 19 Cornellians and their guests headed out on a crisp winter day for one of our most anticipated excursions of the year: the CCUK Baby Seals Hike.


Our destination was the stunning Norfolk coastline, famous for hosting one of the UK’s largest colonies of grey seals. January 24th proved to be the perfect window to catch the tail end of the pupping season, as the fluffy white pups prepared for their transition to the sea.


We navigated the sandy dunes and coastal paths, enjoying a gentle hike that offered breathtaking views of the colony. There’s something uniquely bonding about sharing a chilly, wind-swept walk with fellow alumni, followed by the warmth of a local country pub. After our coastal exploration, we retreated to a nearby spot for a well-deserved late lunch, where we spent the afternoon sharing stories, reviewing our photographs, and catching up over great food.


For those who joined us, it was a memorable day of wildlife, exercise, and connection. For those who couldn’t make it, we’ve included a few snapshots from the trip below to give you a glimpse of the experience.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the journey to Norfolk—we look forward to seeing you all at our next adventure!