Puffin Season at RSPB Bempton Cliffs: Where to Stay for the Best Birdwatching in Yorkshire
Each spring, the dramatic coastline at RSPB Bempton Cliffs becomes one of the UK’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations.
Famous for its towering chalk cliffs and sweeping sea views, Bempton Cliffs is best known for one thing in particular - puffins.
If you’re searching for the best places for puffin watching in Yorkshire or accommodation near Bempton Cliffs, this guide will help you plan the perfect birdwatching escape.
Puffin Season at Bempton Cliffs
Puffins begin returning to Bempton Cliffs from late February, but the best time to see them is between April and early July.
During these months, the cliffs come alive with activity as puffins nest in burrows along the cliff tops, easily visible from the walking paths and viewing platforms.
When to See Puffins in Yorkshire:
March–April: Puffins begin to arrive
April–July: Peak puffin season (best viewing time)
May–June: Ideal for photography
July–August: Puffins begin to leave
If you’re planning a trip specifically for puffin watching near Bempton Cliffs, aim for late spring to early summer for the most reliable sightings.
More Than Puffins: Birdwatching at Bempton Cliffs
While puffins are the highlight, RSPB Bempton Cliffs is home to one of the largest seabird colonies in England, with over 200,000 birds during peak season.
Birdwatchers can expect to see:
Northern gannets diving into the sea
Kittiwakes nesting along the cliff ledges
Guillemots and razorbills packed tightly together
Fulmars gliding effortlessly on coastal winds
The experience is immersive — the sound of thousands of birds, the movement of wings, and the dramatic backdrop of the cliffs make this one of the best birdwatching locations in the UK.
Why Bempton Cliffs is Perfect for Birdwatchers
One of the reasons RSPB Bempton Cliffs is so popular is its accessibility.
Well-maintained cliff-top walking paths
Multiple viewing platforms for close-up sightings
Ideal for both beginners and experienced birdwatchers
Excellent opportunities for wildlife photography
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy it, just bring binoculars, take your time, and enjoy the spectacle.
Where to Stay Near Bempton Cliffs
If you’re travelling for birdwatching, staying nearby makes all the difference.
Early mornings and quieter evenings are often the best times to experience the cliffs, and having somewhere close allows you to avoid the busiest periods and return at your own pace.
Cherry Tree Cottage in Flamborough offers:
A peaceful location just minutes from Bempton Cliffs
Easy access to coastal walking routes
A comfortable, cosy space to unwind after a day outdoors
Dog-friendly accommodation for those travelling with pets
For those searching for holiday cottages near Bempton Cliffs or places to stay for puffin watching in Yorkshire, it provides a calm and convenient base.
Whether you’re a dedicated birdwatcher, a wildlife photographer, or simply someone wanting to experience puffins in their natural habitat, Bempton Cliffs is one of the best coastal wildlife destinations in the UK.
By staying nearby, you can slow down, explore at your own pace, and fully experience everything the coastline has to offer.
Looking for accommodation near Bempton Cliffs?
Cherry Tree Cottage provides the perfect base for your Yorkshire birdwatching escape.