East Riding Of Yorkshire: Coast, Nature and History

At Spurn Point, the coastline is constantly changing: the peninsula, more than three miles long, between the North Sea and the Humber estuary is only 50 metres wide in places. Such contrasts in the landscape shape nature and cultural experiences in East Riding Of Yorkshire—from birdwatching on the cliffs to medieval churches and manor houses.

Coast, lakes and seabirds

Spurn is a National Nature Reserve and is known for bird migration. Beaches, mudflats, salt marshes, dunes, grassland, open water and lagoons form a diverse mosaic there. The reserve also has a visitor centre, birdwatching hides, toilets, refreshments and an electric car charging point. The footpaths are generally open at all times unless bad weather closes the area; tides and weather can also affect access. Check the current conditions before your trip.

At the chalk cliffs of RSPB Bempton Cliffs, around half a million seabirds gather to breed between March and August. Numbers and timing can vary from year to year. The RSPB recommends arriving on foot or by bicycle; bicycle racks are located outside the visitor centre. Flamborough Cliffs Nature Reserve is home to one of Europe’s most significant seabird colonies, and the King Charles III England Coast Path runs through the protected area. From the cliffs, you can enjoy sea views and good views of nesting puffins between mid-May and mid-July; this period can also vary from year to year.

Hornsea Mere lies west of Hornsea in East Riding and is the largest freshwater lake in Yorkshire. Birdwatching, rowing, sailing, boat trips and fishing are possible there, depending on the providers and weather. As a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Protection Area for birds, the Mere also has designated protected status. This makes it possible to treat seasonal coastal birdwatching and activities on the lake as different focuses for a trip.

Churches, manor houses and a prehistoric stone

The historic sights tell their stories in different ways. Bridlington Priory was founded in 1113 as a house of Augustinian canons. After the dissolution of the monasteries during the Reformation, most of the buildings were destroyed; the nave survived. In Howden, the elaborately decorated 14th-century ruins of the choir and chapter house are attached to a cathedral-like minster church that is still in use. The present-day Beverley Minster was built between 1220 and 1425. Tours are offered there under the names Exploring Beverley Minster and Roof Tours; check availability before travelling.

At Burton Agnes Manor House, a rare, well-preserved Norman undercroft and a 15th-century roof meet the interior of a medieval manor house. Check visitor arrangements before travelling. Burton Agnes Hall offers a different architectural experience: the house combines Elizabethan and Jacobean design and has an art collection ranging from Old Masters to contemporary art. Its gardens include thousands of plant species, a yew maze and large outdoor games; these features can change seasonally.

The Rudston Monolith offers an even older point of reference. It is considered the largest single standing stone in England and dates either to the Late Neolithic or the Early Bronze Age. At Sewerby Hall and Gardens, meanwhile, a Grade I listed building and early 19th-century parkland come together. The 50-acre site occupies a clifftop position overlooking Bridlington; the zoo is home to penguins, donkeys, cusus and llamas, among other animals.

Trails and further discoveries

Smaller natural and cultural details can also provide a distinct focus for planning a trip. At Danes Dyke, the three-kilometre Tree Trail loop starts at the information board on the car park. An ancient earthwork and ditch system runs through the nature reserve and gave it its name. Danes Dyke was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 2002 for its wildlife value and importance to the local community. With options ranging from landscape trails and seasonal wildlife watching to historic buildings, you can tailor your stay to your interests.

Discover more destinations: Wansford, South Cave, North Ferriby, Melbourne, Howden, Paull, Rise, Hornsea, Flamborough, Barmston, Brough, Bridlington, Beverley, Arnold, Walkintgon, Blacktoft, Hedon, Coniston, Carnaby, Driffield, Hessle, Barmby Moor, Tickton, Beeford, Wold Newton, Everingham, Cottingham, Aldbrough, Rowley, Nafferton, Brandesburton, Withernsea, Patrington, Kirkburn, Withernwick, Preston, Market Weighton, Rudston, Ulrome, Thwing, Skirpenbeck, Hull, Boynton, Goole, Stamford Bridge, Skipsea, Pocklington, Swanland, North Newbald, Eastrington, Hutton Cranswick, Bubwith.

For the main travel overview: Yorkshire And The Humber.