Top 6 Natural Monuments around Hunmanby
Best natural monuments around Hunmanby are characterized by diverse geological features and scenic coastal landscapes. The village in North Yorkshire is surrounded by notable natural attractions, including dramatic chalk cliffs, sandy beaches, and significant nature reserves. These areas offer opportunities for geological exploration, wildlife observation, and peaceful walks. The region provides a variety of natural sites to discover.
Best natural monuments around Hunmanby
- The most popular natural monuments is RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, a nature reserve and viewpoint…
Last updated: October 4, 2026
RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve
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Rudston Monolith
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Yorkshire Wolds Way End Monument
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Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs
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Gristhorpe Cliff Trig Point
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TP0752 - Buckton Cliffs S6326
County of Yorkshire Definitive List Summit
County of Yorkshire Trig Pillar
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Tips from the Community
Great view over Cayton Bay towards Filey from the OS trig point on the top of this hill
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Amazing views from this Trig point. We were lucky to have visited when the weather was calm and clear.
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Lots of viewing platforms along the clifftop public footpath, but early morning in December is definitely not the best time to view the birds, I didn't see many species or individual birds at all. Maybe I scared them off :). Summer probably much better when they are nesting.
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The Rudston monolith is the tallest prehistoric standing stone in Britain, measuring almost 8 metres high, nearly 2 metres wide, a metre thick and estimated to weigh somewhere in the region of a massive 26 tons. This giant block of grey sandstone or gritstone was errected here either in the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age and is thought to have been quarried more than 10 miles away in the Cayton Bay area south of Scarborough, although the glacial transportation of a large block of stone that was then shaped and utilised by the prehistoric residents of the area cannot be ruled out. The top of the stone has been weathered and eroded into a fluted peak similar to the stones of the Devil's Arrows and a lead cap was first added to try to preserve it in the 18th century. The churchyard of All Saints that it stands in is of course much younger and although the christianisation of the site took place around 1100AD the stone had already stood here for at least 3000 years. The monolith stands close to the Gypsey Race, an occasional stream that flows along the floor of the Great Wold Valley from close to the barrow of Duggleby Howe in the east, past another pair of barrows at Wold Newton and Willie Howe before turning south past the Argham Henge and Cursus down to Rudston itself where it bends sharply and heads eastwards to the sea at Bridlington. The whole of the Gypsey Race landscape was obviously important in prehistoric times and holds a rich selection of sites, most of which have been destroyed or badly damaged by ploughing, including many round barrows, several long barrows, four cursuses and at least one henge. It continued to retain its importance into the historic period - a major Roman villa was discovered to the southwest of Rudston village. In the corner of the churchyard is a much smaller stone presumably brought here from a local barrow and also the remains of a double cist that was removed from a nearby barrow on Rudston Beacon by the antiquarian Canon Greenwell in the late 19th century.
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Pretty Lily Pond, eheral, in the mist coming in from the sea
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Not a significant waymarker as it’s worth pushing to the end of the cliff top before turning back, the views are worth it!
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Situated in the churchyard in the village of Rudston, this monolith, which stands at over 25 feet, is the tallest megalith in the United Kingdom.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Hunmanby?
Among the most popular natural monuments are the RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, known for its seabird colonies, and Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs, a stunning stretch of coastline. Visitors also appreciate the extensive views from Gristhorpe Cliff Trig Point.
Are there natural monuments suitable for families with children?
Yes, several natural monuments around Hunmanby are family-friendly. RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve offers a visitor centre and easy viewing platforms for seabirds. Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs is also suitable, and Hunmanby Gap features shallow tidal pools perfect for children to paddle safely at low tide.
Where can I observe wildlife, especially seabirds, near Hunmanby?
The RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve is one of Europe's most important seabird colonies, home to tens of thousands of breeding birds including puffins, gannets, guillemots, and razorbills. It's part of the broader Flamborough Headland, which is a designated Special Protection Area for its birdlife.
What kind of geological features can I explore in the Hunmanby area?
The region is rich in geological interest. Flamborough Headland, including areas like Danes Dyke, is a dramatic chalk headland with towering white cliffs, caves, stacks, arches, and blowholes. Speeton Cliffs are internationally important for their Lower Cretaceous successions and are rich in fossils like ammonites and belemnites.
Are there opportunities for fossil hunting near Hunmanby?
Yes, Speeton Cliffs, located south of Filey, are renowned for their remarkably complete Lower Cretaceous successions and are rich in fossils. Fossil hunting is a popular activity there, with many specimens found in the scree slopes below the soft, easily eroded clay cliffs.
What hiking and walking opportunities are available near these natural monuments?
The Flamborough Headland offers numerous coastal walking paths with stunning sea views. For more structured routes, you can explore options in the cycling guides around Hunmanby, which often include scenic paths near natural sites. The Yorkshire Wolds Way End Monument also marks the end (or beginning) of a significant trail.
Are there any dog-friendly natural sites around Hunmanby?
Hunmanby Gap is known for its long, sandy beach that is dog-friendly year-round, making it a great spot for walks with your pet. Many coastal paths also welcome dogs, but always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments for seabird viewing?
For seabird viewing, particularly at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, the best time to visit is from spring through mid-July when tens of thousands of breeding birds are nesting on the cliffs.
Are there any historical elements to discover at these natural monuments?
Yes, beyond their natural beauty, some sites hold historical interest. Hunmanby Gap features intact World War II pillboxes and other remnants of coastal defenses along the shore. Similarly, Speeton Cliffs also have World War II pillboxes that are slowly making their way down the mobile clay slopes due to coastal erosion.
Where can I find a tranquil beach experience near Hunmanby?
Hunmanby Gap offers a picturesque and tranquil coastal area with a long, sandy beach. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere, even during peak season, and features shallow tidal pools at low tide.
What kind of cycling routes are available near Hunmanby's natural monuments?
There are various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for touring bicycles in the Cycling around Hunmanby guide, road cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Hunmanby guide, and mountain biking trails in the MTB Trails around Hunmanby guide. These guides often feature routes passing by or offering views of the natural monuments.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets at the natural monuments?
At RSPB Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve, there is a visitor centre with information, a shop, cafe, and toilets. Danes Dyke Beach and Chalk Cliffs also has a cafe located in the car park of the nature reserve, typically open during summer months.
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