Attractions and Places To See around Bempton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bempton include its dramatic chalk cliffs, which are a significant breeding ground for seabirds. The area features a rugged coastline, historic landmarks, and scenic walking routes. Bempton offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a notable destination for outdoor exploration. The village and its surroundings provide diverse points of interest for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Bempton
- The most popular attractions is RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, a viewpoint known for its seabird colonies. Visitors can observe gannets, guillemots, and puffins from various viewing platforms.
- Another must-see spot is Flamborough Lighthouse, a man-made monument marking the Flamborough Headland. This historic lighthouse offers spectacular views and is a starting point for cliff walks.
- Visitors also love North Landing Beach and Cliffs, a scenic cove with a beach and cliff-top amenities. It is known for its picturesque setting and calmer waters.
- Bempton is known for its natural monuments, viewpoints, and coastal features. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from wildlife reserves to historic lighthouses and beaches.
- The attractions around Bempton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 270 upvotes and over 120 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Flamborough Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Filey Bay Beach
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
Flamborough Cliffs
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Rudston Monolith
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Bempton.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Takes about 2 hours from cayton bay along the the Cleveland way to Filey couple of uneven parts on the way but relatively an easy walk
0
0
Happened to be here on a lovely sunny day, but with 40mph winds - It was a great walk out on the Brigg but 'blowing away the cobwebs' a bit of an understatement!
0
0
Lots of viewing platforms along the clifftop public footpath, but early morning in December is definitely not the best time to view the birds, I didn't see many species or individual birds at all. Maybe I scared them off :). Summer probably much better when they are nesting.
3
0
Lots of parking, very quiet in winter, and cracking routes along the south and north of Flamborough Head. Take the north route past North Landing and Thornwick Bay, much more scenic than the southerly route.
2
0
If you can, walk the entire section between the lighthouse and Bempton Cliffs, there are many and varied little bays and rock formations. Footpath muddy in winter, but not terribly boggy. Cracking views and photo opportunities.
3
0
The Rudston monolith is the tallest prehistoric standing stone in Britain, measuring almost 8 metres high, nearly 2 metres wide, a metre thick and estimated to weigh somewhere in the region of a massive 26 tons. This giant block of grey sandstone or gritstone was errected here either in the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age and is thought to have been quarried more than 10 miles away in the Cayton Bay area south of Scarborough, although the glacial transportation of a large block of stone that was then shaped and utilised by the prehistoric residents of the area cannot be ruled out. The top of the stone has been weathered and eroded into a fluted peak similar to the stones of the Devil's Arrows and a lead cap was first added to try to preserve it in the 18th century. The churchyard of All Saints that it stands in is of course much younger and although the christianisation of the site took place around 1100AD the stone had already stood here for at least 3000 years. The monolith stands close to the Gypsey Race, an occasional stream that flows along the floor of the Great Wold Valley from close to the barrow of Duggleby Howe in the east, past another pair of barrows at Wold Newton and Willie Howe before turning south past the Argham Henge and Cursus down to Rudston itself where it bends sharply and heads eastwards to the sea at Bridlington. The whole of the Gypsey Race landscape was obviously important in prehistoric times and holds a rich selection of sites, most of which have been destroyed or badly damaged by ploughing, including many round barrows, several long barrows, four cursuses and at least one henge. It continued to retain its importance into the historic period - a major Roman villa was discovered to the southwest of Rudston village. In the corner of the churchyard is a much smaller stone presumably brought here from a local barrow and also the remains of a double cist that was removed from a nearby barrow on Rudston Beacon by the antiquarian Canon Greenwell in the late 19th century.
0
0
The monument is the former Flamborough Head lighthouse and includes an octagonal tower constructed of coursed chalk rubble with stone dressings. It was built in 1674 as a business venture by Sir John Clayton, but never used.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Bempton Cliffs for birdwatching?
The prime time for birdwatching at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve is between March and August, when around half a million seabirds, including Northern Gannets, Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, and Common Guillemots, flock to the cliffs to nest. Puffin sightings are particularly popular from April to July.
What types of wildlife can I expect to see at Bempton Cliffs?
Beyond the spectacular seabird colonies, you might spot barn owls, short-eared owls, brown hares, and roe deer. Occasionally, bottlenose dolphins can be seen off the coast. The area is a crucial breeding ground for seabirds like Northern Gannets, Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, and Common Guillemots.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities around Bempton?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve offers well-fenced viewing platforms for safe birdwatching. North Landing Beach and Cliffs is a scenic cove with a beach, cafes, and pubs, perfect for a day out. Additionally, Filey Bay Beach offers golden sands and clean waters, backed by the charming coastal town of Filey.
What historical sites can I explore in Bempton?
Bempton offers a glimpse into history with sites like St. Michael and All Angels Church, which dates back to the early 13th century and features a unique 14th-century octagonal tower. You can also appreciate the historical significance of the former RAF Bempton, an early warning radar station during World War II, from nearby vantage points. The Smugglers' Caves at Thornwick Bay also hold tales of the area's past.
Are there good walking or hiking trails near Bempton's attractions?
Absolutely. Bempton is excellent for walking, with miles of tranquil trails and picturesque routes. The Headland Way coastal path passes through Bempton, offering stunning cliff-top views. You can find easy hikes like the 'Bempton Cliffs – Bempton Cliffs loop' or 'The Gansey Girl Sculpture – Bridlington Harbour loop' in the Easy hikes around Bempton guide. A popular cliff walk extends from Flamborough Lighthouse all the way to Bempton Cliffs.
Can I find beaches or coves to visit near Bempton?
Yes, Bempton is surrounded by beautiful coastal spots. North Landing Beach and Cliffs is a picturesque cove with a beach, cafes, and pubs. Smugglers' Caves at Thornwick Bay offers a quiet cove with chalk cliffs, rock pools, and sea arches. Further afield, Filey Bay Beach boasts inviting golden sands.
Is RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve accessible for all visitors?
The RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve has a visitor center and several well-fenced viewing platforms designed to be accessible. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current information on specific accessibility features and conditions.
Where can I find food and drink near the main attractions?
Near the cliffs, the RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve has a cafe. At North Landing Beach and Cliffs, you'll find a pub and a cafe. The village of Bempton itself offers traditional fish and chip shops and cozy pubs, such as The White Horse pub, known for its distinctive blue-tiled roof.
What are some unique or lesser-known spots to visit in the area?
For breathtaking cliff-top views beyond the main reserve, consider visiting Bartlett Nab. Mosey Downgate offers a scenic trail along the Yorkshire coastline. The Smugglers' Caves at Thornwick Bay provide a quiet cove with rock pools and sea arches, steeped in history. You can also explore the visible earthworks of the Deserted Medieval Village of Newsham for archaeological insights.
Are there cycling routes available around Bempton?
Yes, Bempton offers picturesque cycling routes. You can explore options like the 'Seaside Bike Path – Flamborough Lighthouse loop' or the 'Filey Beach loop'. For more details and route suggestions, refer to the Cycling around Bempton guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the Bempton area?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular wildlife spectacle at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, especially the gannet and puffin colonies. The stunning coastal views from places like Flamborough Lighthouse and the peaceful atmosphere of coves like North Landing Beach and Cliffs are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the rewarding walks and the chance to spot seals or enjoy sunsets.
Can I take a boat trip to see the seabirds up close?
Yes, from late spring to September, you can take RSPB Seabird Cruises from Bridlington harbour. These boat trips offer a unique perspective to experience the seabird colony at Bempton Cliffs up close from the sea.
Most popular attractions around Bempton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
