Holiday rentals in Flamborough

Situated high on a dramatic headland and surrounded by chalky white cliffs, Flamborough is a small seaside village in North Yorkshire, around an hour’s drive north of Hull. Here at the coastline, hundreds of thousands of seabirds create a wildlife display rarely seen anywhere else in the UK. At the nearby Bempton Cliffs — Britain’s most famous RSPB reserve — you’ll find one of the largest mainland nesting colonies of the gannet.

Flamborough is also famous for its two historic lighthouses. The first is the oldest complete lighthouse structure in the UK and was built in the 17th century from local chalk. Flamborough Head Lighthouse was built in 1806. You can climb to the top of each for spectacular views of the coast. The village also has two beautiful, unspoilt beaches with many rock pools to explore, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a seal.

The most pleasant time to visit Flamborough is from late March to June, when the wildflowers bloom all around the village and the days are generally mild for spending time outdoors. July and August are the warmest months, when you can expect sunny days to enjoy time at the beach. Be aware that the weather can be quite unpredictable during this time of year, and make sure you pack your jacket along with your sunscreen. In winter, the weather can turn wild, with wind and rain ever-present, an ideal time to look for holiday cottages in Flamborough where you can cosy up indoors. On New Year’s Eve, the Flamborough Fire Festival is an all-ages event celebrating the Viking heritage of the Yorkshire coast, with a spectacular torchlight procession and the grand burning of the Viking longship on the water.

Bempton Cliffs

It’s estimated that around half a million seabirds soar and nest around Bempton Cliffs. Between March and October, you’ll see puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and herring gulls, as well as the mighty gannet — the largest seabird in the UK. There are several viewing platforms, three of which have wheelchair access. You can learn more about each of the species at the Seabird Centre, and there are self-guided tours for kids to learn about local wildlife.

Thornwick Bay

Just over 1.5 kilometres from North Landing is the picturesque Thornwick Bay. Along the easy clifftop walk from Flamborough, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views across the coastline of the famous white cliffs. In winter, North Sea waves crash onto the shore, while in spring and summer, the bay can be still and quiet.

Selwicks Bay

Selwicks Bay on the Flamborough headland is home to both sandy and pebble beaches surrounded by 120-metre chalk cliffs. Visit the Flamborough Head Lighthouse while you’re here and take a short walk to the fog signal station, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the cliffs and the headland.