East Riding of Yorkshire
East Riding of Yorkshire
Top 20 Natural Monuments in East Riding of Yorkshire
Best natural monuments in East Riding of Yorkshire include diverse coastal features, significant estuaries, and ancient woodlands. The region is characterized by dramatic chalk cliffs, dynamic sand and shingle spits, and internationally important wetlands. These areas offer varied natural landscapes, from towering sea cliffs to tranquil forest settings. The East Riding of Yorkshire provides opportunities to explore unique geological formations and rich biodiversity.
Best natural monuments in East Riding of Yorkshire
- The most popular natural monuments is Flamborough Cliffs,…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Flamborough Lighthouse
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RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve
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Flamborough Cliffs
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Rudston Monolith
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Smugglers' Caves at Thornwick Bay
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Millington Wood Nature Reserve
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Mappleton Cliffs and Coastal Erosion
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Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit Nature Reserve
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High Stacks Natural Arch
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Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs
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Popular around East Riding of Yorkshire
Yorkshire Wolds Cycleway – Open skies & relaxed rural life
Yorkshire Wolds Way – Discover the serenity and beauty
Cycle the Way of the Roses – Historic cities to rolling hills
Trans Pennine Trail – the UK's most iconic coast to coast in 7 days
The North Sea Coast Cycle Route — England
A fantastic journey along Britain’s entire East Coast – NCN 1
Wolds, waterways & a tribute to a hero – Wilberforce Way
Hike 'God's Own County' – White Rose Way
Around the edge in 80 days — cycling the coastline of Britain
Yorkshire's Finest – A World Championship host for good reason
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Tips from the Community
Parking for several cars, picnic benches a little bit shabby and decayed as of autumn 2025.
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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.
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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.
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Narrow track runs down to this little bay, very quiet in winter and not as busy as North Landing. There is a metal staircase at the bottom of the track that drops you onto the beach, where the rocks are initially quite large. In Dec 24 the steps were still open, but part of the track right next to them was taped of by the council as part of the footpath has collapsed due to erosion. Still perfectly safe and accessible, just need to exercise caution.
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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.
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Fabulous spot, High Stacks is easily viewed from the clifftop public footpath. In winter there are lots of seals on the shingle beach immediately north of the stacks.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I explore in East Riding of Yorkshire?
East Riding of Yorkshire offers a diverse range of natural features. You can explore dramatic chalk cliffs, dynamic sand and shingle spits, and internationally important wetlands. Notable examples include the towering cliffs of Flamborough Cliffs, the unique constantly evolving landscape of Spurn Point, and the vast mudflats and reedbeds of the Humber Estuary. Ancient woodlands like Millington Wood Nature Reserve also provide tranquil retreats.
Where are the best places for birdwatching in East Riding of Yorkshire?
East Riding of Yorkshire is a prime destination for birdwatching. RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve is renowned for its seabird colonies, hosting nearly half a million birds like gannets, puffins, and guillemots during breeding season (March to mid-July). Spurn Point is another haven, with over 400 bird species spotted, including rare Arctic and little terns. The Humber Estuary is internationally important for overwintering birds.
Are there any family-friendly natural monuments in the region?
Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve offers safe viewpoints to observe seabirds, and its visitor centre provides facilities. Millington Wood Nature Reserve is a historic woodland perfect for gentle strolls, especially beautiful with bluebells in spring. Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs offers woodland paths leading to a cobbled beach, ideal for exploration.
What unique geological formations can I see in East Riding of Yorkshire?
The region boasts fascinating geological features. Flamborough Head is famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs, sea stacks, and arches, including the distinctive High Stacks Natural Arch, which some say resembles a 'Drinking Dinosaur'. Spurn Point is a unique, constantly evolving sand and shingle spit. You can also explore Smugglers' Caves at Thornwick Bay, adding to the coastal geological wonders.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For seabird colonies, March to mid-July is ideal at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, with puffins most visible from April to July. Spring brings beautiful bluebells to woodlands like Millington Wood Nature Reserve. Autumn is excellent for migrant birds along the coast and vibrant foliage. Coastal walks are enjoyable year-round, though some areas can be windy.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting beyond birds?
Absolutely. At Spurn Point, you might spot seals basking on sandbanks or even dolphins in the water. Flamborough Head offers chances to see Harbour Porpoises, dolphins, and occasional Minke Whales from the cliffs. The Humber Estuary hosts Britain's most southeasterly breeding colony of grey seals. Tunstall Beach is also known as a place to spot seals.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive coastal walks along places like Flamborough Cliffs and Spurn Point. Hiking is popular, with routes such as 'Around Spurn Head' and 'Bempton cliffs & Flamborough Head loop' available. For cycling, there are options like the 'Hornsea Rail Trail' or longer routes around Flamborough Head. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking in East Riding of Yorkshire, Cycling in East Riding of Yorkshire, and Gravel biking in East Riding of Yorkshire guides.
Are there any historical sites or features linked to the natural monuments?
Yes, history is intertwined with the natural landscape. Spurn Point features remnants of its use as an anti-aircraft battery in WWII and a restored lighthouse. Flamborough Head has two lighthouses, one dating from the 17th century and another from the 19th century (Flamborough Lighthouse). Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit Nature Reserve is also noted as a historical site. Additionally, Danes Dyke is a 2.5-mile long Iron Age earthwork.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in East Riding of Yorkshire?
Visitors frequently praise the dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. Many enjoy the extensive coastal walks, especially those offering spectacular views from places like Flamborough Cliffs. The opportunity to witness impressive seabird colonies at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve is a highlight for many. The peaceful atmosphere of ancient woodlands like Millington Wood Nature Reserve is also highly valued.
Is there parking available at the major natural monuments?
Yes, parking is generally available at the major natural monuments. For instance, there are multiple parking areas around Flamborough Head, including near Flamborough Lighthouse and RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve. Millington Wood Nature Reserve also has parking for several cars. It's always advisable to check local signage for any fees or restrictions.
Are there any natural monuments suitable for easy walks?
For easier walks, Millington Wood Nature Reserve offers serene paths through ancient woodland. The visitor centre area at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve provides relatively flat access to some viewpoints. Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs also has accessible woodland paths leading to the beach, though the beach itself may be uneven.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments?
Many natural monuments in East Riding of Yorkshire are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on leads, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to clean up after them. For example, dogs are welcome on leads at Spurn Point and on many of the coastal paths around Flamborough Head. However, specific nature reserves like RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve may have restrictions in certain areas to protect nesting birds, so it's best to check their specific guidelines before visiting.
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