This place is ideal for dusting off the post-Christmas cobwebs
There is nothing more beautiful than a beach glittering with frost in the early morning sun, framed by a pale blue winter sky with birds calling on the breeze and the promise of a hot drink once you’ve finished braving the elements. And you can enjoy it all at Spurn Point.
This narrow, curved spit of land that divides the Humber from the North Sea offers a constantly-changing landscape of incredible big skies, long beaches, and a full day out of places to explore for day-trippers, families and walkers alike.
Free to visit – and with free parking for Yorkshire Wildlife Trust (YWT) members – Spurn is the place for a perfect weekend wander or opportunity to escape post-Christmas stresses. A full trip out to the end of the Point is a true adventure, much like visiting Land’s End, the westernmost point of Cornwall.
Including the lighthouse and return trip, it is a seven-mile walk or bike ride along sandy terrain. For those keen on a shorter walk, the reserve’s beautiful pale sandy beach offers views out to sea, the chance for some excellent beachcombing, and some breath-taking photo opportunities.
A map and details are available at the YWT Discovery Centre. Certificates are available for those who make it to the end of the Point and back.
Spurn has a rich defence history, including military tunnels and gun emplacements, the remains of a railway track, and Spurn lighthouse – restored in 2015, and open to the public at weekends. For those feeling fit, the lighthouse offers incredible views across the Humber and North Sea from its lamp room at the top, with landings at convenient levels showing more about the reserve’s history.
Spurn is well-known for its incredible birdlife. A nature reserve cared for by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust for over 60 years, rarities arrive on spring and autumn migration. Listen out over winter for honking Brent geese, keep your eyes peeled for a starling murmuration at dusk, watch flocks of finches dart through the bushes and look up for birds of prey such as merlins wheeling overhead.
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You might spot a barn owl or short eared owl. Deer browse through the grass and harbour seals bob in the smooth waters of the estuary.
The Trust’s Highland cows and belted Galloways lumber their way slowly through the landscape, helping to graze for the flowers and insect-rich grasslands that will return in the spring. The café arguably has one of the best estuary views to enjoy, with a proper brew and special Yuletide menu if you’re visiting over the festive season.
Stop off for full Yorkshire breakfast, take a light lunch including soups and winter warmers, or try seasonally-themed light bites, sourced where possible from local and Yorkshire suppliers. A wildlife-themed shop is stocked with items as gifts or treats for yourself.
By spending in the café or shop, you are supporting the work of the Trust caring for special places like this east coast marvel.
Spurn really is the perfect adventure this winter and a chance to have a really, truly wild experience. Spurn is about 45 minutes’ drive from Hull, with paid-for parking onsite or free for YWT members – you can join online or when you visit ywt.org.uk/membership
The reserve is open all day and the Discovery Centre is open from 10am until 4pm. Please check tide-times before walking across the Washover – more information can be found at the Visitor Centre or at ywt.org.uk/spurn
The reserve reopens on Boxing Day after a short Christmas break.