Harbour seals, also known as common seals, are the smaller of the UK’s two seal species, though their name can be misleading - they’re not as common as you might think. In fact, current estimates give their numbers at 55,000 - a third of the number of grey seals around Britain’s shores.
These charming creatures spend much of their time lounging on beaches, rocks, and sandbanks, but they’re also strong swimmers, often seen gliding through coastal waters. Each harbour seal has a unique pattern of spots on its coat, making it possible to tell individuals apart.
In British folklore, they were believed to be selkies - mythical creatures that could transform into humans. Today, their curious and playful nature makes them a much-loved symbol of coastal wildlife.
This solitary harbour seal lies amongst seaweed and rocks, looking right at the camera with what seems like a contented smile on its face. Its sleek, spotted coat and relaxed posture make it hard not to be charmed by this adorable creature. Whether it’s just finished a swim or simply soaking up the peaceful surroundings, this harbour seal perfectly embodies the calm beauty of UK wildlife.
Enhance your space with this cheerful seal in a wall art print, or enjoy its smiling face every day on a mug or greeting card!
Original photography by Carol Herbert - available only at Real World Art.
Explore all Seal Coffee Mugs and Animal Coffee Mugs
Indulge in a delightful morning ritual with one of these unique and durable smiling harbour seal ceramic mugs that will elevate your coffee or tea experience with a blend of style and functionality.
Why choose a mug from Real World Art?
Whether you're on the hunt for [inserttheme1] coffee mugs for yourself, or as a gift for someone else, this mug set is the answer.
Smiling Harbour Seal seal mugs are printed to order and usually shipped within 3-5 business days. Please allow a further 2-3 days from the despatch date to receive your item (not including weekends or bank holidays).
Prices shown are inclusive of delivery to All UK Postcodes.
Please check out the Delivery & Returns and Free Shipping pages for futher information.There are no reviews for this item yet, but here is just a small selection of what other happy Real World Art customers have to say!
Absolutely wonderful photo! I bought it for my grandson but my daughter loved it so much that we decided it would be a waste to put it on his bedroom wall. The quality and detail demands a place where everyone can see it. I would definitely recommend this to family and friends. Thank you for the quick delivery too!
Thrilled to bits with the picture , better than expected
Fantastic artwork, great service, from ordering to delivery
I'm absolutely made up with the print I received from Real World Art. I went for the Koi Carp image - It's very evocative and they've totally captured the serenity you feel watching Koi. You can almost hear the babbling water! What's more, it's a top quality print, pin-sharp and looks great framed up. Couldn't recommend them any higher.. lovely to deal with.. thank you.
The absolute perfect image, promptly dispatched, swiftly received. Highly delighted customer. Thank you very much indeed Carol.
Brilliant! My print is beautiful. I initially ordered the wrong product due to my own error but Carol was so supportive and helpful I cannot recommend her/this company enough.