Best attractions and places to see around Withernsea include a variety of historical landmarks, natural coastal features, and recreational opportunities. This traditional seaside town in the East Riding of Yorkshire offers a blend of maritime heritage and dynamic natural landscapes. Visitors can explore iconic structures like the inland lighthouse and the historic pier towers, alongside sandy beaches and promenades. The area provides diverse experiences, from exploring historical sites to enjoying the natural beauty of the Holderness coastline.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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You can't go much further south on the Holderness peninsula than Easington (if you do, you'll get wet). The church dates to the Norman period, with a 12th-century north aisle and 13th-century south aisle. There are a 14th-century clerestory and west tower, and a 15th-century chancel. Set into the wall of the north aisle is a lovely Early English doorway that may have been brought here from Birstall (Burstall) Priory, perhaps when that monastery sank into the Humber River due to erosion. Some of the north nave windows are made using Saxon grave slabs and evidence of the Saxon carvings can easily be seen.
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The new Withernsea pier: technological feat and popular success Despite some damage during its construction, the 1,196-feet-long pier was completed by August 1877. Built entirely out of iron, except for the brick entrance and wooden decking, the pier used the new technology of screw piles, which were driven deep into the ground. Seating was provided along the full length of the pier and a saloon and hall for entertainment was situated at the pier head. The entrance to the pier consisted of two castellated towers, rumoured to be based on Conwy Castle in Wales. Storm damage and tragic loss of life On 28 October 1880, a devastating storm erupted which caused damage to many of Yorkshireβs piers. Withernsea Pier suffered twice when it was hit by two storm-damaged vessels. T The second vessel to hit the pier was the brig Saffron, which tore a 200-foot hole through its centre before coming to rest nearby. The Saffron had been part of a flotilla of ships which had set out from the Humber, journeying northwards. Around Flamborough Head, the wind increased rapidly to a storm force gale. The fleet was at the mercy of the elements. The pier had only just been repaired when it was damaged again on 28 March 1882, the pier head being destroyed along with the saloon above it. The pier was not repaired, but the remaining sections continued in use. The series of disasters was relentless, and on 20 October 1890, the Grimsby fishing smack Genesta hit the pier, destroying over half its length and leaving just over 300 feet remaining. Two years later even this was destroyed, when another vessel, the Henry Parr (formerly the Dido) rammed into it at the height of another storm. The remains of Withernsea pier: a landmark and memorial The history of the pier at Withernsea is both tragic and yet in some ways inspiring. The two entrance towers have survived all the devastation around them. They are a well-loved landmark in the town, even if many visitors are totally unaware that they once formed a part of a pier. They also act as a memorial to those sailors who perished in the seas around it.
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An inland lighthouse which stands in the middle of the town. It ceased operation on 1 July 1976 and is now used as a museum.
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St Patrick's Church, Patrington is a grade I listed building and is often called the Queen of Holderness. It is in the Decorate Gothic style, built between 1310 and 1400. Although building work from earlier places of worship can be found on the site. St Patrick's open to the public. See the website for more details https://www.stpatrickspatrington.org.uk/
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Withernsea is a seaside resort, the largest in Holderness. The pier towers on the promenade were once the entrance to a 364m (1200ft) long pier that stretched out into the North Sea. The beachfront heads in both directions from the pier towers and at the south end you can see the impact of the fast coastal erosion in this part of Yorkshire. Where the sea defences end, the coastline takes a sudden turn inland.
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Old quarry that was landscaped after the closure of the Hull to Withernsea railway line. Now outdoor centre for fishing and kayaking.
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Withernsea is rich in maritime history. You can visit the iconic Withernsea Pier Entrance Towers, which are the remnants of a grand Victorian pier and now host exhibitions. Another significant site is the Withernsea Lighthouse, an inland lighthouse that now operates as a museum, offering panoramic views from its top. Further afield, you can find historical churches like All Saints Church Tower, Easington, and St Patrick's Church, Patrington, known as the 'Queen of Holderness'.
Yes, Withernsea offers several family-friendly options. The Pier Entrance Towers and Lighthouse Museum are suitable for all ages. Kelsey Gardens provides an outdoor center for fishing and kayaking. Additionally, Withernsea Beach is a Blue Flag beach perfect for relaxation and play. Valley Gardens features a children's play area, and there's also a bowling alley, kids' soft play area, and 'The Hut' adventure playground for free play activities.
The main natural attraction is Withernsea Beach, known for its soft sands and clean waters. The Withernsea Promenade offers refreshing sea breezes and ideal conditions for leisurely walks. You can also visit Kelsey Gardens, a landscaped former quarry now used for fishing and kayaking. Valley Gardens and Millennium Green Park provide green spaces for recreation. Further down the coast, Spurn Point National Nature Reserve is a significant area for wildlife spotting, especially migratory birds and seals.
Withernsea is a great base for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore easy routes like the Withernsea Lighthouse loop or the Mappleton Beach loop. Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes such as the Easington Beach loop or the Hornsea Mere loop. Runners have options like the Hollym Campsite loop or the Withernsea Pier Towers β Withernsea Lighthouse loop.
Yes, the Withernsea Lighthouse operates as a museum. Visitors can climb the 144 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Holderness coastline. It features exhibits on local history, the RNLI, and HM Coastguard. For specific access details, including parking and public transport, it's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly.
Spurn Point is a unique national nature reserve located down the coast from Withernsea. It's a narrow, three-mile-long spit of land, only 46 meters wide in places, known for its rare migratory birds, seals, and unique plants. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Access to Spurn Point is managed, and it's recommended to check the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust website for information on parking, permits, and public transport options before visiting.
The Withernsea Pier Entrance Towers are noted as wheelchair accessible. The Withernsea Promenade also provides a flat surface suitable for wheelchairs, offering sea views. For other attractions, it's best to check directly with the venue for specific accessibility information.
On a rainy day, you can visit the Withernsea Lighthouse Museum to explore local history and enjoy the exhibits. The Pier Towers also host exhibitions and art stalls. For entertainment, there's a bowling alley and a kids' soft play area in town. The Pavilion Leisure Centre offers excellent wet and dry facilities.
The effects of coastal erosion are visibly evident at the south end of the Withernsea promenade, where the sea defenses end. This area clearly showcases the rapid changes occurring along this part of the Holderness coastline. The Coastal Change Observatory, located within the Pier Towers, also educates visitors on these dynamic transformations.
A unique geographical point of interest is where the Greenwich Meridian crosses the coast north-west of Withernsea. This marks a significant global line of longitude.
Valley Gardens serves as a hub for local events, including the annual Summertime Special and the Withernsea Pirate Festival. These events add to the vibrant atmosphere of the town, especially during warmer months.
Yes, Kelsey Gardens, a former quarry, has been landscaped and now functions as an outdoor center specifically for fishing and kayaking.


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