Spring Seabirds at Bempton Cliffs
We’ve just returned from a few days exploring the Yorkshire coast, based near the spectacular seabird colonies at Bempton Cliffs and Flamborough Head. Spring is a brilliant time to visit, and our trip gave us plenty of photo opportunities, coastal walks, and encounters with some of Britain’s best-loved birds.
Wolds Farm
We stayed at Wolds Farm, a peaceful and well-kept camping and caravan site just five minutes’ walk from the cliff-top path and around two miles from the RSPB Bempton Cliffs reserve. It’s in a great spot – we could be out on the coast path within minutes, cameras ready.
From the moment you join the path, you’re hit by two things – the incredible noise of thousands of seabirds and the strong, salty smell of fish that hangs in the air. It’s all part of the experience, and the sense of being right in the heart of a busy seabird colony is unforgettable.
We had bright blue skies for the first couple of days – ideal for flight shots of Gannets, Fulmars, Razorbills, and Kittiwakes as they soared along the cliff edge in a brisk, cold wind off the North Sea. The flying conditions were superb, and we spent hours trying to capture the action.
One real highlight was the Puffins – already back in good numbers and, to our delight, easily visible close to Wolds Farm, making it much easier to get decent shots without the need to head all the way into the main reserve. Watching these colourful little characters up close is always a treat, and they certainly didn’t disappoint.
Selection of more Images from the trip
We also took a trip to Bridlington, boarding the Yorkshire Belle for a boat cruise below the cliffs. The weather had turned colder but still clear by then, but the different viewpoint gave a dramatic view of the cliff face and the sheer scale of the nesting colonies.
Our last couple of days were grey and breezy, typical of early spring on the coast. Even without perfect light, we enjoyed quieter moments on the paths, simply watching the birds settle into the breeding season.
If you’re visiting Bempton, we highly recommend Wolds Farm. It’s perfectly located, with great early spring views, fewer crowds, and close encounters with seabirds preparing for the nesting season.
