Family Walks Along the East Yorkshire Coast
The East Yorkshire coast is one of our region's greatest assets, and walking along it with the family is one of life's simple pleasures. Here are our favourite family-friendly coastal walks — all with ice cream opportunities, naturally.
1. Bridlington North Beach to Sewerby (2 miles)
Difficulty: Easy | Buggy-friendly: Yes
Start at Bridlington's North Beach car park and follow the promenade north towards Sewerby. The path is flat and paved the whole way, with stunning views across Bridlington Bay. At Sewerby, reward yourselves with the playground, Sewerby Hall gardens, and the obligatory ice cream.
Ice cream stop: Sewerby Hall cafe
2. Flamborough Head Circular (3 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate | Buggy-friendly: All-terrain only
This circular walk takes in Flamborough's dramatic chalk cliffs, the historic lighthouse, and the RSPB viewing platforms. Between April and August, you'll see thousands of nesting seabirds. Keep children well back from cliff edges.
Ice cream stop: Flamborough village shop
3. Hornsea Promenade to Mappleton (2.5 miles)
Difficulty: Easy | Buggy-friendly: First mile
Walk south along Hornsea's promenade, past the Mere, and along the cliff-top path towards Mappleton. The views are spectacular and you might spot seals in the water below. Turn back whenever you like.
Ice cream stop: Hornsea Promenade cafes
4. Spurn Point (4 miles return)
Difficulty: Easy but long | Buggy-friendly: No (sandy paths)
The narrow sand spit extending into the Humber estuary is like nowhere else in England. The walk to the lighthouse and back is flat but can be windswept. Amazing for birdwatching and beachcombing.
Ice cream stop: Bring your own!
5. Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve (1-2 miles)
Difficulty: Easy | Buggy-friendly: Yes
RSPB Bempton Cliffs has paved paths between viewing platforms, making it accessible for buggies and wheelchairs. Between April and August, the cliffs are alive with puffins, gannets, and other seabirds. Children find it absolutely magical.
Ice cream stop: RSPB visitor centre cafe
Safety Tips
- Always keep children away from cliff edges
- Check tide times before walking on beaches
- Bring layers — the coast is always windier than inland
- Wear sturdy footwear, even on "easy" walks