Record Visitor Numbers at RSPB Bempton Cliffs Boosted by Local Business Investment
RSPB Bempton Cliffs Achieves Record Attendance
RSPB Bempton Cliffs, a premier natural attraction in East Yorkshire, has celebrated a remarkable increase in visitor numbers, hitting an all-time high of 135,561 in 2025. This represents an impressive 18% rise from the previous year, driven largely by local business investment and targeted marketing initiatives.
Support from Invest East Yorkshire
The surge in visitors is attributed to support from Invest East Yorkshire's Business Support Services Team. Through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), RSPB Bempton Cliffs received a grant that allowed the nature reserve to enhance its marketing strategy. With this funding, the reserve engaged in targeted advertising across regional media and social platforms, alongside benefitting from free social media workshops and continuous business guidance.
Councillor Anne Handley, leader of the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the growth at Bempton Cliffs. "It is great to see how Bempton Cliffs has been able to increase its visibility and start to extend its tourism season, with the help of new marketing activities. This success shows how targeted funding can generate a wider economic impact for the entire local supply chain," she stated.
Year-Round Tourism Initiatives
Historically, Bempton Cliffs has attracted a significant number of visitors during puffin season, but the reserve aimed to extend its appeal year-round. Dave O'Hara, the Reserve Manager, noted, "Thanks to Invest East Yorkshire, we were able to invest in marketing RSPB Bempton Cliffs as a year-round visitor attraction, increasing visits in the shoulder seasons, so spreading visitor numbers across the year. This contributed to an amazing year for visitor numbers, our highest on record."
The success of the reserve not only highlights its importance as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) but also emphasizes its role in boosting the local economy. The increase in foot traffic benefits nearby accommodation providers, restaurants, and independent businesses, creating a ripple effect throughout the East Yorkshire community.
Celebrating a Decade of the Visitor Centre
In 2025, RSPB Bempton Cliffs also marked the tenth anniversary of its Visitor Centre, which features a shop and café serving bird-friendly coffee, enhancing the visitor experience. The centre has expanded its range of events for the summer season, further enticing tourists to explore the area.
As the only mainland breeding colony of gannets in England, Bempton Cliffs continues to be a vital habitat for wildlife and a focal point for nature enthusiasts. The reserve is renowned for its puffin colony and offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and the North Sea.
Looking Forward
Invest East Yorkshire's Business Support Services team remains committed to helping local businesses grow and develop. For those interested in learning more about support or grant eligibility in the East Riding, more information can be found at Invest East Yorkshire.
The continued success of RSPB Bempton Cliffs serves as a testament to the potential of local partnerships and targeted funding in driving tourism and economic growth in East Yorkshire.