Perched dramatically on the Yorkshire coast, RSPB Bempton Cliffs is one of the UK’s most spectacular nature reserves—a rugged stretch of coastline where land meets sea in a stunning display of natural drama. Located in the East Riding of Yorkshire, just a short drive from Bridlington, this clifftop sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone with a love for the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or simply looking for a refreshing day out, Bempton Cliffs offers an experience that’s both unforgettable and uniquely British.
Getting There: A Journey Worth Making
RSPB Bempton Cliffs is easily accessible by car and public transport, making it a convenient escape for visitors across the UK. If you’re driving, aim for the village of Bempton—situated about 6 miles north of Bridlington. From there, clear signage will lead you straight to the reserve, where ample parking is available. For those travelling by train, Bempton station is a short walk from the cliffs, offering regular services from Hull and Bridlington. Cyclists will also enjoy the scenic ride along quiet country lanes, with several bike racks provided at the reserve.
The Cliffs and the Birds: A Spectacle in the Sky
Bempton Cliffs rise more than 100 metres above the North Sea, forming a dramatic backdrop to one of the UK’s most important seabird colonies. Every spring and summer, over half a million seabirds descend on the chalky ledges to breed. The sight—and sound—of thousands of birds in flight, calling, diving and nesting, is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the Atlantic puffin. With their colourful beaks and comical expressions, puffins attract visitors from far and wide, particularly between May and July. Bempton Cliffs is one of the best places in England to see these much-loved birds up close.
Other avian residents include gannets, which glide effortlessly on vast wingspans before plunging into the sea like arrows; kittiwakes, whose gentle calls echo along the cliffs; razorbills, guillemots, and fulmars. The sheer density of birdlife is overwhelming, and each visit offers a different slice of nature’s spectacle.
The RSPB has installed several purpose-built viewing platforms along the cliff edge, allowing visitors to watch the nesting birds safely and comfortably. These platforms provide stunning panoramic views, with helpful interpretation boards and RSPB volunteers often on hand to share fascinating insights.
Landmarks and Hidden Gems
Beyond the cliffs themselves, the surrounding area is rich with history and natural beauty. One of the most striking features near Bempton is Flamborough Head, a dramatic chalk headland just a few miles south of the reserve. Here, visitors can explore an iconic white lighthouse, enjoy cliff-top walks, or descend to small pebble beaches nestled between the rocks.
Sewerby Hall and Gardens, located on the edge of Bridlington, is another worthwhile stop. This grand Georgian house, set in 50 acres of landscaped gardens, offers a peaceful retreat with woodland walks, a zoo, and family-friendly attractions.
For those with an interest in military history, the nearby RAF Bempton (a former radar station) has remnants scattered around the cliffs—a stark reminder of the area’s role in coastal defence during the Second World War.
Walking the Wild Coast
One of the best ways to take in the beauty of Bempton Cliffs and its surroundings is on foot. The reserve is part of the England Coast Path, a national trail that promises breathtaking views and invigorating air. Several waymarked trails wind through the reserve and along the cliff tops, suitable for walkers of all abilities.
A popular route is the Bempton to Flamborough Head Walk, which spans around 6 miles (9.5 km). This walk combines the best of both worlds: towering cliffs teeming with wildlife, and the expansive coastal views that characterise this part of the Yorkshire coast. Along the way, you might spot grey seals basking on rocky outcrops below, or dolphins playing in the surf.
For something gentler, try the Cliff Top Trail within the reserve itself. This well-maintained path is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs and offers multiple viewing points within a short distance from the visitor centre.
The Visitor Centre: Your Gateway to Nature
RSPB Bempton Cliffs boasts a well-equipped visitor centre that serves as both an educational hub and a comfortable base for exploring the area. Here, you’ll find interactive exhibits, wildlife spotting guides, and a friendly café serving hot drinks, sandwiches, and locally made cakes.
The centre also has a well-stocked shop with nature-themed gifts, books, and birdwatching equipment, making it a perfect spot for picking up a souvenir or treating a fellow nature enthusiast.
For families, the reserve offers seasonal events, including guided walks, puffin patrols, and activities tailored to younger visitors. Binocular hire is available, and there are even live camera feeds showing up-close footage of nesting birds during the breeding season.
Fascinating Facts About Bempton Cliffs
- It’s one of the few places in England where you can see gannets breeding. Most gannets nest on remote islands, but Bempton’s towering cliffs provide an ideal mainland substitute.
- The reserve is home to England’s largest seabird colony, with over 250,000 birds present during peak season.
- The cliffs are made of chalk, which is unusual for seabird colonies—most are found on harder rock types. The chalk is soft enough to allow birds like puffins to dig nesting burrows.
- Puffins only spend a few months on land. After breeding season, they disappear into the North Atlantic, where they live entirely at sea until the next spring.
- The RSPB has been protecting the cliffs since 1969, and ongoing conservation work helps ensure the birds—and the landscape they depend on—are safe for future generations.
When to Visit
Each season brings its own charm to Bempton Cliffs. Spring and summer (April to August) are undoubtedly the highlights for birdwatching, especially if you want to catch the puffins. However, autumn and winter offer a more peaceful experience, with windswept views, dramatic weather, and the chance to spot migrating birds and sea mammals.
Whatever time of year you visit, dress appropriately—the clifftops can be breezy even on the sunniest days, and a pair of binoculars will vastly improve your experience.
A Place to Return To
RSPB Bempton Cliffs is more than just a day trip—it’s a place that invites you back time and again. Whether it’s the call of the wild seabirds, the sense of standing on the edge of the world, or the simple joy of fresh coastal air, Bempton leaves a lasting impression. For travellers looking to reconnect with nature, witness unforgettable wildlife, or explore one of Britain’s most beautiful coastlines, this extraordinary spot delivers on every front.
