Top 10 must sees

East Yorkshire is a real head turner! With miles of rugged coast and lush green countryside, you’re never far from a great view. There are however, certain places that you simply have to see when you visit. Add these locations to your holiday itinerary and take away fantastic photos as well great memories.

1. Beverley Minster 

You can’t visit the market town of Beverley without noticing its spectacular Minster. One of the largest Parish churches in the UK and considered a gothic masterpiece by many, it should definitely be on your list of must sees when in East Yorkshire. To fully appreciate its vastness and intricate architecture, step through its huge doors to find stunning stained glass, magnificent memorials and historic furnishings.

Top tip. For a unique view of Beverley Minster head to Beverley Westwood. This enormous lush green pasture is a lovely place to walk and offers breath taking views of the Minster from afar, emerging above houses and trees.

Learn more about Beverley Minster

2. The drinking dinosaur at Flamborough Head

Just south of the lighthouse on Flamborough Head is one of East Yorkshire’s most photographed locations. An incredible rock formation officially called the Green Stack Pinnacle but known locally as the drinking dinosaur, it is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.  The reason for its nickname is obvious when you see it!

Top tip: The beach below is favoured by sunbathing seals so look closely when you visit and you may spot these special visitors to East Yorkshire’s coast.

Learn more about Flamborough Head

3. Bempton Cliffs

Reconnect with nature at Bempton Cliffs. Visitors have been flocking to this natural beauty spot for years and for good reason. During the autumn and winter, enjoy perfect peaceful moments whilst strolling along the 400-foot chalk cliffs with just the south of the waves crashing below and endless views of the East Yorkshire coast to keep you company. Sunsets and sunrises here are just breath taking! During spring and summer, the cliffs become home to over half a million seabirds who arrive from April to nest. A hive of activity, watch as gannets, puffins, razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes perch on cliff ledges, swoop and dive into the North Sea.

Top tip: Experience a different side of Bempton Cliffs with a seabird cruise. Departing from the nearby seaside town of Bridlington, hop on board to witness the imposing cliffs towering above you. If you’re very lucky you might even be greeted by the bottlenose dolphins that can be seen off the East Yorkshire Coast over spring and summer months.  

Learn more about Bempton Cliffs

4. The Humber Bridge

Standing proudly over the Humber estuary, the Humber Bridge is a one of the world’s longest single span suspension bridges and one of East Yorkshire’s most iconic landmarks. Take a stroll along Hessle Foreshore to appreciate the best views of the bridge stretching out over the water.

Top tip: Once you’ve finished admiring the bridge from the banks of the Humber, why not walk the 1.4 miles across it? At 30 metres above water level, you’re treated to spectacular panoramic views of the mighty estuary and over the treetops of the Humber Bridge Country Park. It’s completely free for walkers too.

Learn more about the Humber Bridge

5. Spurn Nature Reserve

Its unique location, natural beauty and atmospheric scenery make Spurn Nature Reserve a highlight of East Yorkshire. This iconic and constantly moving peninsula stretches out for three and a half miles into the Humber Estuary and is a mecca for bird watchers who come from miles around to observe the many rarities that can be spotted here. 

Top tip: The iconic black and white Spurn Lighthouse is the tallest in northern England and provides wonderful photo opportunities. Capture it from the sandy shores or climb the 128 feet to the top for some spectacular views across the reserve.

Learn more about Spurn Nature Reserve

6. Hockney country

Discover the places that inspired many of artist, David Hockney’s, most celebrated pieces. Hockney regularly frequented East Yorkshire, visiting family in Bridlington before moving there himself for a time. During this period he found inspiration in the Yorkshire Wolds and the paintings which followed – the so-called Yorkshire Landscapes, have been exhibited all over the world. 

Follow the Hockney itinerary

Top tip: Follow in Hockey’s footsteps and visit Painsthorpe Dale, a steep-sided valley which Hockney referred to as ‘Bugthorpe Valley’. Follow the gravel bath to the bottom of the valley where you’ll find a pretty steam and pond – the perfect spot for a picnic.

Learn more about David Hockney and East Yorkshire

7. Waves and Time

At the junction of three Wolds dry valleys (Worm Dale, Thixendale and Bradeham Dale) lies Waves and Time, a huge spiral earthwork in the ground. Measuring around 40 metres in diameters, it is inspired by the ice and water that once flowed through the valley and shaped the landscape. 

What3Words: rather.above.lamenting OS Grid Ref: 845588

Top tip: Whilst exploring this beautiful part of the Yorkshire Wolds, a visit to the Robert Fuller Gallery is a must. Take the 30 minute drive to see the work of leading wildlife artist Robert E Fuller and enjoy his paintings, sculptures, photographs, films and live camera footage of the local wildlife.

Learn more about Waves and Time

8. Hornsea Mere

Yorkshire’s largest freshwater lake lies in the small coastal town of Hornsea. A wildlife haven, it is internationally significant for birds, attracting a variety of wintering species and passage migrants each year. Take a relaxing stroll around the Mere before stopping for a bite to eat in the on-site café. 

Top tip: Hit the water and enjoy a motorboat trip around the Mere. Rowing boats, fishing boats and sailing boats are also available to hire.

Learn more about Hornsea Mere

9. Bridlington promenade 

Stroll the two miles of promenade in the beautiful seaside town on Bridlington and enjoy impressive views of the award-winning beach. Running all the way from the harbour where you can pick up fish and chips and other tasty seaside treats, wander the past amusements, cafes, ice cream shops and a funfair before reaching the approach to Sewerby cliff top.

Top tip: Although not part of the promenade, it really is worth walking that little bit further to Sewerby cliff top as the views looking back over the bay of Bridlington are really special.

Learn more about Bridlington

10. Flamborough North Landing

One of the most picture-perfect sandy spots in East Yorkshire, Flamborough North Landing is a small, secluded beach surrounded by towering chalk cliffs. Pack a picnic, discover marine wildlife hiding in rockpools, take a boat ride and watch the kayakers and snorkelers in the North Sea.

Top tip: If you’re lucky and time it just right, you can watch the traditional coble fishing boats come ashore. An old-fashioned process involving an old tractor and planks and wood placed under the boat, it’s fascinating to see. A lovely nod to the past and the maritime history of the small town of Flamborough.

Learn more about Flamborough North Landing

And that rounds up our top 10 must sees whilst in East Yorkshire! To discover more places to see and things to do just use the search bar at the bottom of this of this page.