Bempton Cliffs RSPB
A premier UK seabird colony with puffins, gannets, and stunning coastal views. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Puffin season!
Bempton Cliffs RSPB
Best Time
Puffin season!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier UK seabird colony with puffins, gannets, and stunning coastal views. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
"This is an amazing place, even if you do not know much about sea birds."
🎯 Bring Binoculars & Camera
Essential for spotting and photographing the diverse seabirds from the viewing platforms.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The cliff paths can be uneven and windy; comfortable, grippy shoes are a must.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 6,098 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Puffin Paradise
Various viewpoints along the cliffs
Witness the charming puffins with their colorful beaks nesting and diving for fish. A true highlight for any visitor.
Gannet Spectacle
Gannet colony viewpoints
Marvel at the sheer number of Northern Gannets, the largest seabirds in the UK, soaring and diving.
Cliff-Top Vistas
Coastal paths and viewing platforms
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the dramatic coastline and the vast North Sea.
Razorbill & Guillemot Colonies
Cliff ledges
Spot distinctive Razorbills and Guillemots, often seen perched on the cliff faces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Puffins
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Binoculars & Camera
Essential for spotting and photographing the diverse seabirds from the viewing platforms.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The cliff paths can be uneven and windy; comfortable, grippy shoes are a must.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Coastal weather is changeable. Be prepared for wind, sun, and potential rain.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak puffin season.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Binoculars & Camera
Essential for spotting and photographing the diverse seabirds from the viewing platforms.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The cliff paths can be uneven and windy; comfortable, grippy shoes are a must.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Coastal weather is changeable. Be prepared for wind, sun, and potential rain.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak puffin season.
🐶 Dogs on Leads Welcome
Well-behaved dogs on leads are permitted, but keep them away from cliff edges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bempton Cliffs for its incredible seabird colonies, especially the chance to see puffins. The stunning coastal views and well-maintained facilities, including a cafe and viewing platforms, are frequently highlighted. While parking can be busy and cafe prices slightly higher, the overall experience is described as amazing and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
"What a fantastic place to see the amazing bird life. The pathways are thoughtfully set out in order to view all the cliffs. I went at Ganet season. An amazing spectacular. Will definitely return for the Puffins"
ANNE Trower
"This is an amazing place, even if you do not know much about sea birds.
There must be thousands of birds here, nesting, flying, feeding etc.
There are a few viewing platforms, but you will need patience and a camera with a long lens if you want good close-up photos of the birds.
There is an excellent cafe and shop.
There is a lot of parking, but it can get very busy, especially if people are coming to try and get a glimpse of the Puffins."
Kevin Moore
"Fantastic views and walks. Well worth a visit. £8 entry fee for non members. Friendly staff, great cafe, shop & toilets. Binocular hire available"
Corina Wheeler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bempton Cliffs RSPB is located on the Yorkshire coast. You can drive and park on-site (charges apply for non-members). The nearest train station is Bempton, which is a short walk from the reserve. Buses also serve the area, though services may be less frequent.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the RSPB Bempton Cliffs visitor centre. However, it can get very busy, especially during peak seasons like puffin season, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, you can reach Bempton Cliffs by public transport. Bempton train station is nearby, and local bus services also operate in the area, though checking timetables in advance is advised.
From York, you can take a train to Bempton station. The journey typically involves a change. Alternatively, driving offers more flexibility, with Bempton Cliffs being a manageable road trip.
Yes, Bempton Cliffs is close to the seaside town of Bridlington and the popular tourist destination of Scarborough. These towns offer accommodation and further attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is free for RSPB members. For non-members, there is an admission charge, typically around £8.00 for adults, which supports conservation efforts.
While booking in advance isn't always mandatory, it's advisable during peak season (especially for puffins) to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check the RSPB website for the latest information.
The reserve is generally open daily, but specific opening hours for the visitor centre, cafe, and shop can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official RSPB Bempton Cliffs website for current hours.
RSPB members get free entry. Discounts may be available for families or groups, and it's worth checking the RSPB website for any special offers or concessions.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Bempton Cliffs, but they must be kept on a lead at all times to ensure the safety of the wildlife and other visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bempton Cliffs is famous for its huge seabird colony, home to around 500,000 birds! You can see Puffins, Northern Gannets, Kittiwakes, Fulmars, Razorbills, Guillemots, and many more.
The puffin season at Bempton Cliffs is typically from April to July. Outside of these months, they return to sea. 
Yes, there are well-maintained walking trails along the cliff tops, offering stunning views and access to various viewing platforms.
The reserve has a visitor centre, cafe, shop, and toilets. There are also picnic tables and benches along the trails.
Absolutely! Bempton Cliffs is a photographer's paradise, especially for wildlife and landscape photography. Bring a long lens for birds!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at the visitor centre offering refreshments, snacks, and light meals.
The cafe typically serves a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and other light bites.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, making it a great spot to enjoy your own packed lunch with a view.
Some visitors find the cafe prices slightly higher than average, but the quality and freshness are generally well-regarded.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and use the picnic facilities provided.
📸 📸 Photography
A camera with a telephoto lens (300mm or more) is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of the seabirds.
Yes, the reserve has several well-placed viewing platforms that offer excellent vantage points for photographing the bird colonies and the coastline.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunsets can be particularly stunning.
Absolutely! Puffins are a major draw for photographers from April to July. Be patient and respectful of their space. +1
While not always advertised, keep an eye on the RSPB website or local photography groups for potential workshops or guided photography walks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit