Discover Bempton Cliffs in Bridlington: A Spectacular Coastal Day Out

Visiting the Yorkshire coastline offers a world of dramatic landscapes, charming seaside towns, and unforgettable natural encounters. At Perdyke Properties, we take pride in helping travelers discover the finest hidden gems and iconic landmarks around our holiday rentals. Among all the coastal treasures in East Yorkshire, one location consistently tops our list of recommended day trips: Bempton Cliffs. Situated just north of Bridlington, this breathtaking stretch of chalk cliffs is home to one of the most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries in the United Kingdom.

Whether you are a passionate birdwatcher, a photographer looking for spectacular coastal views, or a family seeking an inspiring walk in the fresh sea air, a day out at Bempton Cliffs Bridlington promises an experience you will remember long after your holiday ends.

What Is Bempton Cliffs and Why It Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary

Rising over 300 feet above the tumbling waves of the North Sea, Bempton Cliffs is a sweeping coastal nature reserve managed by the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). Known affectionately as “Seabird City,” these towering white chalk precipices play host to around half a million breeding seabirds every year between spring and mid-summer. It stands as the largest mainland seabird nesting colony in England, offering an up-close glimpse into nature that is rare to find anywhere else on the mainland.

What makes Bempton Cliffs England so exceptional is not just its impressive geological scale, but its accessible layout. Unlike many rugged coastal colonies that require strenuous treks or open sea boat trips to view, Bempton features well-maintained, level footpaths and purpose-built cliff-edge viewing platforms. This means visitors of all ages and mobility levels can safely observe the swirling activity of tens of thousands of birds nesting along the sheer rock faces. For our guests at Perdyke Properties, it serves as the ideal blend of wild coastal drama and convenient, stress-free exploration.

What to See and Do at Bempton Cliffs Bridlington

A visit to Bempton Cliffs is an immersive sensory experience. From the sound of thousands of nesting birds echoing off the rock faces to the vast blue horizons of the East Riding shoreline, there is plenty to discover during your outing.

Spot the Iconic Atlantic Puffins

For many visitors, seeing puffins in the wild is the highlight of their trip. Between April and July, thousands of Atlantic puffins arrive at Bempton Cliffs to nest in the naturally formed crevices and cracks of the chalk walls. With their brightly colored beaks and distinctive waddling walk, these charm-filled “sea parrots” are a joy to observe as they fly back from sea carrying small fish to feed their young.

Marvel at Northern Gannets and “Seabird City”

Bempton is home to mainland Britain’s largest colony of Northern gannets. With wingspans reaching up to six feet, these graceful birds perform spectacular aerial displays, plunging headfirst into the sea at incredible speeds to catch fish. Alongside gannets and puffins, the cliffs are packed with razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, and kittiwakes. Friendly RSPB volunteers are frequently stationed along the viewpoints with telescopes, happy to help you spot specific species and answer questions.

Visit the Visitor Centre and Café

The modern visitor centre provides an excellent introduction to the history and wildlife of the reserve. Inside, you can browse interactive displays, check the daily wildlife sightings board, and rent binoculars for your walk. There is also a cozy café serving hot beverages, local treats, and light meals—perfect for recharging after a bracing walk along the coastal paths.

Walk the Coastal Paths

The reserve features several miles of scenic coastal walking routes running along the cliff tops. As you walk between the main viewing stations—such as Bartlett Nab and Grandstand—you will enjoy sweeping panoramas stretching toward Flamborough Head to the south and Filey to the north. Keep your eyes trained on the ocean below, as gray seals, porpoises, and even dolphins are regularly spotted playing in the waves.

Practical Information and How to Get to Bempton Cliffs

Planning your trip from your holiday home is straightforward, as Bempton Cliffs is conveniently located near major routes in East Yorkshire.

• By Car: Bempton Cliffs is located off Cliff Lane, Bempton (postcode YO15 1JF), approximately 5 miles north of central Bridlington (a quick 10 to 15-minute drive). Clear brown tourist signs guide you directly to the site from the main A165 road. On-site parking is available near the visitor centre.
• By Public Transport: The village of Bempton has its own railway station on the Northern Trains line connecting Hull, Bridlington, and Scarborough. The train journey from Bridlington to Bempton takes just 6 minutes. From Bempton station, it is a pleasant, well-signposted walk of around 1.2 miles (about 25 minutes) through the village to the reserve entrance.
• Best Time to Visit: To see the puffins and maximum bird numbers, plan your visit between mid-April and mid-July. However, the cliffs offer stunning walks and wild sea views year-round. In autumn and winter, migrating birds, barn owls, and short-eared owls can often be seen hunting over the fields.
• Facilities & Accessibility: The reserve is exceptionally accessible compared to most cliff top locations. Main paths leading from the visitor centre to the nearest viewpoints are wide and paved, making them suitable for pushchairs and mobility scooters. Accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and mobility scooter rentals are available on site. Dogs are welcome on short leads along the trails.

Exploring Beyond the Cliffs: Combining Your Visit with Bridlington and Flamborough

One of the great advantages of visiting Bempton Cliffs is its proximity to other standout destinations along the Yorkshire coast. We always suggest making a full day of your excursion by pairing the reserve with nearby coastal towns and natural landmarks.

Just a few minutes south lies the historic seaside town of Bridlington. Known for its bustling harbour, wide sandy beaches, and traditional fish and chip shops, Bridlington offers a classic coastal day out. You can stroll along the promenade, tour the historic Old Town with its independent shops and centuries-old Priory, or take a sea cruise aboard the Yorkshire Belle to view the chalk cliffs directly from the water.

Alternatively, drive slightly east to Flamborough Head, famous for its dramatic sea arches, historic lighthouses, and excellent rock-pooling at North Landing and South Landing. Combining the wild cliffs of Bempton with a seaside lunch in Bridlington gives you the ideal balance of nature, culture, and coastal charm.

The Best Time of Year to Plan Your Coastal Getaway

While summer brings the vibrant energy of half a million breeding seabirds, every season at Bempton Cliffs England carries its own unique appeal.

• Spring (April to May): The arrival of breeding pairs fills the cliffs with color and activity. Wildflowers like pink sea thrift bloom along the grassy paths, making it a prime season for photographers.
• Summer (June to August): Peak nesting season, where chick activity is at its height. The sea conditions are generally calmest during this time, ideal for combining cliff walks with beach days in Bridlington.
• Autumn & Winter (September to March): A quieter, atmospheric time defined by crisp sea breezes, dramatic North Sea skies, and migrating birds of prey. It is the perfect setting for those who enjoy refreshing coastal walks away from summer crowds.

Experience the Yorkshire Coast with Perdyke Properties

From awe-inspiring bird colonies to relaxing walks along the chalk tops, Bempton Cliffs Bridlington showcases the very best of England’s natural coastline. After a day spent breathing in the sea air and taking in the panoramic views, there is nothing better than returning to a comfortable, stylish, and fully equipped home away from home.