The best walks and hikes around Bempton

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. For an easier, shorter walk that still offers fantastic cliff-top views, consider the Bempton Cliffs loop from Bempton. It's a manageable 3.5-mile (5.7 km) route that takes about an hour and a half, making it ideal for an outing with kids.

Dogs are welcome on the public footpaths along the coast. However, it is crucial to keep them on a short lead at all times, especially near the cliff edges and within the RSPB reserve to protect the ground-nesting birds and for their own safety.

The prime birdwatching season is during the spring and early summer, typically from April to mid-July. This is when over half a million seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and guillemots, nest on the cliffs. However, the autumn and winter months are also rewarding for spotting owls and other migratory birds.

For a moderately challenging circular route that isn't an all-day trek, the Blakehowe Trig Point loop from Bempton is a great choice. This 6.2-mile (10 km) hike takes you inland for different scenery and can usually be completed in under 3 hours.

Yes, Bempton has a train station which is located about 1.5 miles from the RSPB Bempton Cliffs reserve. From the station, you can walk to the start of many of the coastal paths, making it accessible for those arriving without a car.

The main car park is at the RSPB Bempton Cliffs reserve, which is the starting point for many trails. There is a charge for non-members. Alternative parking can be found in Bempton village or at Flamborough Head, but be sure to check local restrictions, especially during peak season.

While the seabirds are the main attraction, the waters below the cliffs are also full of life. Keep an eye on the sea during the summer months, as it's possible to spot marine mammals such as dolphins, porpoises, and even minke whales from the cliff-top paths.

While the immediate cliff-top paths are focused on nature, some longer routes pass through nearby villages with amenities. For example, the The Ship Inn Sewerby loop from Flamborough is a pleasant walk that starts and ends near a pub, perfect for refreshments after your hike.

The Flamborough Outer Headlands is a highly-regarded local favorite, known for its stunning white chalk cliffs and scenic coastal trails. It offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities and features the historic Flamborough Lighthouse, making it a rewarding destination for a day's hike.

The difficulty varies. There are easy, relatively flat cliff-top walks of just a few miles, as well as more difficult, longer circular routes over 12 miles (19 km). The terrain is generally rolling with moderate climbs, so you can choose a trail that matches your fitness level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the breathtaking, expansive views of the North Sea from the dramatic chalk cliffs and the incredible spectacle of the seabird colonies. The well-maintained paths are also a common point of positive feedback.