Residents are being displaced from a picturesque village in England due to an influx of vacationers. Blakeney, located in North Norfolk, experiences a surge in visitors during the summer months attracted by its stunning stone houses, top-rated hotel, and seal colonies. However, the village transforms in the winter, with dwindling tourist numbers and many abandoned fishing cottages adding to its charm.
Blakeney Point, renowned for its seal populations, offers guided tours by Beans Boat year-round. Over the years, the estuary has filled with silt, limiting access to the harbor for all but the smallest boats. Once a fishing village, Blakeney has transitioned into a popular holiday destination, with its pubs and hotels bustling with tourists during the summer season.
Tore, a native resident of Blakeney, shares her experience of living in the village and the challenges posed by the seasonal influx of visitors. She moved back to the area a decade ago and was able to secure affordable housing through the Blakeney Neighbourhood Housing Society, which aims to provide local residents with accessible housing options.
The disparity between house prices and local wages in Blakeney is evident, with properties averaging £714,000 in November 2025, significantly higher than the UK average. To address the issue, the district council implemented a 100% levy on Council Tax for second home owners and tenants in North Norfolk, aiming to mitigate the impact of excessive holiday properties on the local housing market.
While tourism remains a vital part of the village’s economy, concerns persist regarding the high number of second homes in Blakeney, which drive up prices and make it unaffordable for many locals. The Parish Council acknowledges the need to strike a balance between preserving the appeal of the area for visitors and ensuring sustainable housing options for community members.
