Wolds and coast date ideas
Key facts
| Donna Nook seal viewing | Late October to early January, depending on seal numbers |
|---|---|
| Donna Nook busy weekends 2026 | 7 November to 13 December, with traffic management |
| Gibraltar Point | Reserve open at all times, visitor centre open daily |
| Hubbard's Hills, Louth | Open dawn to dusk |
Lincolnshire's countryside is wide and quiet, and its coast is wilder than people expect. These are good dates for people who like fresh air and do not mind mud. Each one is free to walk, though parking may cost.
Seal pups at Donna Nook
Grey seals give birth at Donna Nook in November and December, and you watch from a fenced area at the foot of the dunes. Go on a weekday if you can, as the busiest weekends have a one-way system. Follow signs for RAF Donna Nook rather than your satnav.
Source: Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust: Donna Nook, checked 9 November 2026
Winter birds at Gibraltar Point
Gibraltar Point, about three miles south of Skegness, has dunes, saltmarsh and lagoons. In winter there are brent geese, wigeon, teal, hen harriers and owls, and big wader flocks gather on high autumn tides. Warm up at the visitor centre afterwards.
Source: Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust: Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, checked 9 November 2026
Stepping stones at Hubbard's Hills
Hubbard's Hills is a wooded valley on the edge of Louth, with the River Lud winding through it. Cross the stepping stones, feed the ducks or picnic in the meadow. Fires and barbecues are not allowed.
Source: Louth Town Council: Hubbard's Hills, checked 9 November 2026
Questions
When can you see the seals at Donna Nook?
The viewing area opens from late October to early January, depending on seal numbers. Pups are born in November and December.
Can we bring a dog to Donna Nook?
No. Dogs are not allowed in the seal viewing area, because seals can carry diseases that harm dogs.
What should we wear?
Boots and warm, windproof layers. Coast paths can be muddy and the wind off the North Sea is cold.
Read next
Our sister site Smooch covers dating across the UK. WhichDating, our sister review site, has a guide to first date tips.