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The Birds of Bempton Cliffs

Every year, hundreds of thousands of seabirds visit the spectacular Bempton cliffs on the East Yorkshire coast. The cliffs plunge over 400 feet to the sea, and by using one of the 5 sturdy and well-maintained viewing platforms, it’s possible to stand safely at the cliff edge and watch in wonder as the beautiful seabirds swoop, dive and build their nests. There are breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside.


Puffins are one of the most popular birds in the UK and Bempton is a popular site to see them during the summer. With their smart black and white tuxedos and colourful beaks, they are often called the ‘clowns of the sea’. Here are a few facts about puffins you may not know:

  • They mate for life and live for about 20 years, which is about the same as penguins

  • They only lay one precious egg each season 

  • Every year they return to the same nesting site

  • Baby puffins are called pufflings

  • They live most of the year out at sea, and only come inland to lay their egg and raise their puffling.

  • Puffin populations have been in serious decline for several years, which is why they are on the red list of endangered species

You can also see plenty of Gannets, with their impressive 6-foot wingspan at any time of the year. They are superb divers, and can plunge into the water at speeds of up to 60mph to catch their prey. 


Sleek Guillemots, with their smart black and white plumage are often mistaken for penguins, and are easily spotted here during the season, along with Kittiwakes and Shags, which are smaller relatives of the Cormorant with striking emerald-green eyes.


Even without the birds, the views from the cliff edge are truly breathtaking, complemented by the beauty of the surrounding meadows. If you can tear your gaze away from the mesmerising ocean view, you may catch sight of the ghostly Barn Owl, hunting for its prey in the long grass.

 

Use your ears to find other birds in the meadows - Corn Buntings are charming little birds with distinctive songs that sound like jangling keys, but their numbers are sadly in decline.

 

 Linnets have a sweet song, and the males have striking red patches on their chests and foreheads. The unmistakable melody of Skylarks fills the air, adding to the natural symphony.

If enjoying all this makes you thirsty, you can pop into the RSPB café for a lovely cuppa and a bite to eat. There’s also a gift shop where you can buy a memento of your trip and a lovely present.

 

For a different perspective of the cliffs, why not take a ride on the Yorkshire Belle? This iconic boat has been a well-loved feature of Bridlington for nearly 80 years, and the company runs various cruises along the Yorkshire coast, from a 1-hour jaunt to Flamborough Lighthouse, to a longer voyage all the way to Filey Bay. From the Yorkshire Belle you can see the birds close up as they dive into the sea around the boat. You can also hear an interesting talk about the birds from an experienced commentator, if you book via the RSPB website here RSPB Puffin and Gannet Seabird Cruises 2025.

Nest Building Gannet

A beautiful gannet is busy building a nest at Bempton Cliffs on the East Yorkshire coast.

Size: A4
Price: £175

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