Flamborough is located on the Yorkshire coast of England, between the Filey and Bridlington bays of the North Sea, and is a village and civil parish.
Determined to stay well clear of the usual tack and mass flocks of the Ye Olde British subculture that dwell deep within the hearts of Bridlington, Scarborough and Filey, we decided to visit Flamborough Head due to its picturesque landscape steeped deep in Roman history.
Empty chalk beaches and the abundance of wildlife were waiting for us ahead. Armed with only an iPhone for photographs, we set off on our journey to Flamborough Head.
Danes Dyke
After researching some of the history surrounding Flamborough, we came across a place known as Danes Dyke. A completely man-made ravine created in the Iron Age or Roman times (no one is certain). It is 2.5 miles in length, cut deep within the wooded landscape, serving as a defence structure to protect headland settlements.
We decided to park up and explore the dyke, shrouded with woodland and steep rolling hills, which serves as a fantastic starting point to explore Flamborough Head. The area feels pretty secluded, so if you want to knock on the door of solitude, it’s a great place to come.
Trail to Flamborough Head
The woodland trail leads directly to Flamborough’s shore – a beautiful pebble beach, encased by steep chalk cliffs, stark white in colour.
We marched on and stumbled across a lighthouse. Dazzling in white under the sun. It’s home to a fabulous cafe and we stopped for crab sandwiches. Probably the best beach grub you’ll find on this section of the English coast.
Soon we arrived at the beach. It’s full of caves and crevices and arches and strange goings on. Striking and beautiful, but it’s sadly also the fastest disappearing coastline in Europe.
From the beach, there is a steep trail that leads upwards through shrubs and plumages of flowers to the top of the cliffs. We admired the endless views looking out over the sea. If you’re lucky you might spot seals. Although they didn’t make an appearance for us I’m sorry to say.
As you meander through thick meadows of grass and gaze at the abundance of wildlife that thrive at the top of the cliffs, you occasionally come across World War II look-out bunkers. We inspected a few, even climbed inside one to gaze through at the framed ocean.
The car journey from Leeds to Flamborough provides plenty of picturesque locations to stop off for a quick toilet break and a photo.
Nearby attractions
There are a number of attractions within relatively close proximity to Flamborough Head.
I recommend exploring the coastline northwards. This whole stretch of coastline leading up to the Scottish border is rich in local birdlife and unspoilt nature.
My favourite of these places is Robin Hood’s Bay located approx 1-hour drive north from Flamborough Head and well worth visiting.
Have you been to Flamborough Head or would you like to?
You might also like these destinations along England’s beautiful coastline…
2 responses
Beautiful shots from an interesting trip.
Thank you, it’s definitely one of England’s most scenic places!