The Seal Sanctuary

It was in 1974 that the first seal arrived at the Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary and Nature Centre and since then hundreds have been rescued and returned to the wild. The wildlife hospital built in 1989 not only made it possible to look after more seals but also gave visitors a better insight into the rearing of seal pups. The opening of the Seal Sanctuary pools in 2000 provided a stimulating environment for the few seals which could not be released back into the wild.

Other local wild creatures in distress, such as badgers, foxes, owls and seabirds are also looked after at the Seal Sanctuary, and any that cannot be released are given a permanent home in the natural surroundings of the sand dunes where the the Seal Sanctuary is located.

As well as conservation, education plays an important part of the seal sanctuary's role in the community and visitors will find the natural history projects both fascinating and educational. The two walk through features at the Seal Sanctuary take a journey back through time and visitors can marvel at the world of dinosaurs, mammoths, plantlife and their fossils as well as being able to experience the prehistoric landscape of the times. Interspersed amongst the displays are some of the animals from our past. These include the newly arrived Snowy Owls and the Northern Lynx in their award winning accommodation.

New for 2005 is a massive aviary designed for emus, peafowl and other exotic birds that will benefit from the extra space that is now provided. It has been 3 years in construction and is due to open in early summer. Information is provided about all the animals and plant life and our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions you have about any of the animals in our care. A cafe and picnic area are provided for refreshments and a wide range of souvenirs are available in the gift shop.