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OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in popular holiday spots and off-the-beaten-track destinations.

This week we’re shining a light on the charming seaside village of Winterton-on-Sea.

While it offers year-round appeal, from bracing winter walks to long summer days on miles of golden sand, with the Norfolk Broads right on the doorstep.

And from October through January, thousands of grey seal pups and their mothers take over the beach during the annual breeding season, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

MUST SEE / DO

At any time of year, the golden expanse of Winterton beach is unmissable, backed by what is widely regarded as the best sand dunes in Norfolk.

And for dog lovers, the beach is even more special, being pooch-friendly all year round.

ON THE UP

Inside the £40million overhaul of the UK’s ‘Golden Mile’ seaside town

FISH AND KIPS

I visited the English seaside town that still has enough to do on rainy days

Boasting one of the largest grey seal colonies in the UK, visitors can see seals at any time during the year.

But it is during the winter months that the area literally comes alive with groups of pups and their mothers stretching out along the sands with around 3500 born every year along the 5-mile stretch of coast from Waxham to Winterton.

BEST VIEW

Keen walkers will enjoy the stunning views and wildlife offered by the Norfolk Coast Path from Winterton to Horsey Gap.

Use the designated viewing platforms for breathtaking views that don’t disturb the seals.

Friendly volunteer wardens are on hand to give guidance and information and ensure the wellbeing of this incredible seal population.

Take the opportunity to stop at the aptly named Seal View Cafe for refreshments.

HIDDEN GEM

Discover one of Britain’s best preserved Roman monuments only a short 20-minute drive from Winterton-on-Sea.

The 3rd Century ‘Saxon Shore’ fort at Burgh Castle, which is now a haven for wildlife haven, was built as part of the Roman network of coastal defences, and three of its imposing stone walls remain, almost to their original height.

RATED RESTAURANT

Indulge yourself at Michelin-recommended The Swan at Ingham, headed up by Norfolk born Chef Patron Daniel Smith who previously worked under Michel Roux Jr. at Le Gavroche in London.

Relaxed and cosy, the 14th century-coaching inn offers a locally inspired award-winning menu.

BEST PUB

Tuck into delicious home cooked meals at friendly traditional Norfolk pub the Fisherman’s Return.

The freehouse, which has been serving customers since the 17th century, is just a stone’s throw from the beach and welcomes dogs.

COTTAGE PICK

Winterton Cottages has a great selection of self-catering options.

The Cranny is a traditional thatched Norfolk double roundhouse.

This pretty two bedroomed property is all on one level and has a fantastic location in the centre of the village – yet is only five minutes walk from the beach.

A three-night weekend stay starts at £573. Modern ‘upside down’ house, Eva’s Lookout boasts a spacious open plan living area upstairs, making the most of the fabulous view over Winterton Valley and out towards the sea.

There’s direct access the beach and it is walking distance from the Fisherman’s Return, shops and Poppy’s tea rooms.

A three-night weekend stay starts at £975. See wintertoncottages.co.uk.

Looking for a cosy winter getaway with fine dining and comfy rooms? Our writer Kirsty Thornley discovered this charming gastropub by Lake Bala in Wales

The Bryntirion Inn is a gem of a gastropub in North Wales, nestled in the picturesque Dee Valley. Dating back to 1695, it combines the character of a traditional village pub with a fine dining experience, and the added bonus of beautifully styled bedrooms to stay in.

The first thing you’ll notice is the lovely warm atmosphere – as soon as we entered the pub, we were welcomed by friendly staff and locals, a cosy log fire and a wonderful playful collection of classic car memorabilia collected by the owner, including half a car embedded in the wall! Dogs are welcomed in the restaurant, bar areas and bedrooms, making this a relaxed retreat for couples, families and four-legged companions alike.

The food at The Bryntirion Inn

Recently listed in the 2025 Michelin Guide, the food here is a huge draw, with a menu focusing on elevated pub classics using high quality, locally sourced ingredients. Our sweet chilli pork bites were delicious and beautifully presented – this is high end, restaurant-quality food.

The roast dinners are not to be missed, including traditional roast beef with all the trimmings and a wonderful crispy pork belly. The puddings were out of this world – the best sticky toffee pudding we’d ever tried, plus homemade ice creams. The drinks selection champions Welsh producers, and includes some Welsh wines – although we were rather partial to the delicious apple martinis.

The rooms at The Bryntirion Inn

The six individually themed rooms, each named after Welsh mountains, combine comfort and character, and are equipped with a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and luxurious Penhaligon’s toiletries. A standout feature is the continental breakfast hamper delivered to your door in the morning, which includes warm baguettes, pastries, cheeses and meats – a fabulous touch that allows for a relaxed start to the day.

What to do around The Bryntirion Inn

The local town of Bala is in the Welsh Lake District, the centrepiece being Lake Bala (Llyn Tegid), the largest natural lake in Wales, sandwiched between Snowdonia and the Berwyn mountains. It’s a great spot for watersports and is popular with fishing enthusiasts too. Walkers can enjoy the many walking routes along with the mighty peaks of Snowdonia and Bala Lake Railway provides a delightful hour-long ride along the lake’s shores from Bala to Llanuwchllyn.

We also visited the grand Victorian Palé Hall Hotel, which is a short walk away from The Bryntirion and somewhere to come back to on another visit as it does a fabulous afternoon tea.

How much does it cost to stay at The Bryntirion Inn?

Rooms at The Bryntirion Inn cost from £140 for two sharing a double room, including breakfast.