Spurn Lightship - Image 1
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Spurn Lightship

4.7
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A dramatic sand spit nature reserve with a historic lighthouse, offering stunning coastal walks and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Autumn mornings

Peak bird migration

CrowdLow
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Spurn Lightship - Image 1

Spurn Lightship

Best Time

Spring and Autumn mornings

Peak bird migration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dramatic sand spit nature reserve with a historic lighthouse, offering stunning coastal walks and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A key landmark on the Holderness Coastline, Spurn Point is definitely worth a visit for its natural beauty and walks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress for the Weather

It's often windy! Pack layers and waterproofs. Sturdy shoes are a must for beach walks.

🚗 Parking & Access

Free parking available. Consider tours for easier access to the lighthouse.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spurn Lighthouse

Spurn Lighthouse

End of Spurn Point

Iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the coastline and estuary. A true landmark!

Coastal Walks

Coastal Walks

Beaches and trails

Explore sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and historic WW11 pillboxes on scenic walks.

Birdwatching Haven

Birdwatching Haven

Nature reserve areas

A vital stopover for migratory birds, offering fantastic birdwatching opportunities.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Spurn Point is a coastal nature reserve, so expect wind and changeable weather. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes for exploring the beaches and trails. Check tide times before you go, as some areas can be affected by the sea.

Plan Your Spurn Point Adventure

Access to the Spurn Point peninsula can be limited by tides. Consider booking a guided tour or using the park and ride service for easier access to the lighthouse and visitor center. Check the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust website for opening times and tour availability.

Best Times

When
Spring and Autumn mornings
Why
Peak bird migration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmer weather for walks
Crowd
Medium
When
Low tide
Why
Easier beach access
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Boarding a small cargo ship at Spurn Point via the pilot launch! #fyp #marinepilot #ship #harbourpilot #maritime
@samhallam
4.5K likes • 210.7K views

🧥 Dress for the Weather

It's often windy! Pack layers and waterproofs. Sturdy shoes are a must for beach walks. Reddit

🚗 Parking & Access

Free parking available. Consider tours for easier access to the lighthouse. Reddit

Spurn Lightship returns to Hull Marina
hullmaritime
126 likes • 1.2K views
One of Hull's famous maritime attractions is back home 😍 After a meticulous restoration by the Spencer Group and Dunston Ship Repairs, the Spurn Lightship is now moored back at its permanent berth in Hull Marina near the Murdoch's Connection bridge 😁 #hull #hullnews #hullmaritime
hullwhatson
214 likes • 6.3K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas

Part of the coast is dog-friendly, but check signage for nature reserve restrictions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Long Walks Ahead

The walk from the museum to the point is about 3 miles. Allow ample time! Reddit

With the last remaining 5th Order Optic on SULA (formally SPURN); still fitted to a Lightvessel; she regularly reminds residents of her previous exemplary service. A live showing from 22.15 to 22.30 to celebrate tonight. ⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️ STAY ONBOARD 💻 Visit www.sulalightship.com ☎️ Or call 07726 495549 #Iv14sulalightship #nationalhistoricshipsuk #alklighthouse #lightship #lightvessel #lighthous...
lv14sulalightship
43 likes • 631 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress for the Weather

It's often windy! Pack layers and waterproofs. Sturdy shoes are a must for beach walks. Reddit

🚗 Parking & Access

Free parking available. Consider tours for easier access to the lighthouse. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas

Part of the coast is dog-friendly, but check signage for nature reserve restrictions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Long Walks Ahead

The walk from the museum to the point is about 3 miles. Allow ample time! Reddit

☕ Cafe Stop

There's a cafe on-site with friendly staff for a warm-up. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Spurn Point for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic coastal scenery, and abundant wildlife, particularly for birdwatching. The historic Spurn Lighthouse is a major draw, and the walks are considered invigorating. However, some find the location remote and the weather can be challenging.

"It’s a bit windy along the coast, so wrap up beforehand! The coastline was beautiful even on a cloudy day!! There’s free parking and part of the coast is dog friendly. There’s signs to inform you how far to walk before you reach the nature reserve area that’s not dog friendly! Be careful. We were accosted by an elderly gentleman who insisted that the area by the gate on the road was NOT dog friendly! However, we followed all the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust information boards to strictly adhere to the areas."

Elisa Winstanley

"Beautiful cliff top walks with views out to sea and down onto the rugged beaches below where seals have basked on the rocks since time immemorial."

Phil Scarr

"Although it is very out of the way as someone from Hull, I would say that Spurn Point is definitely worth a visit if you've never been before, as it is a key landmark on the Holderness Coastline.

It's not just a famous name, though. This area offers a really nice walk through nature, with large sandy beaches, grassy trails, and a picturesque lighthouse at the very end!"

Peter Brown

What People Like

Beautiful coastal scenery
Abundant birdlife
Historic lighthouse

What People Dislike

Remote location
Windy weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Spurn Point is located at the tip of the Holderness coast. You can drive to the visitor center and park for free. For easier access to the lighthouse and further exploration, consider booking a guided tour with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, which often includes transport along the peninsula. Reddit

Public transport options to Spurn Point are limited. It's best reached by car. If you're coming from Hull, you might consider a taxi or arranging a lift. Reddit

From Hull, take the A1033 towards Withernsea. Continue on the A1033 until you reach the village of Kilnsea. Follow signs for Spurn Point. The road leads to the visitor center and parking area. Reddit

Cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially strong winds and a long ride. The final stretch to the lighthouse is a concrete road. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available at the Spurn Point visitor center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Spurn Point nature reserve itself is free. However, if you wish to visit the Spurn Lighthouse or join guided tours, you will need to book these in advance through the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. Reddit

The Spurn Point nature reserve is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening times for the visitor center and any facilities may vary, so it's best to check the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust website before your visit. Reddit

Visiting the Spurn Lighthouse typically requires booking a guided tour. Prices can vary, so check the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's official website for the most up-to-date information on tour costs and availability. Reddit

Yes, you can explore the public areas of Spurn Point and walk along the beaches and trails without a guided tour. However, access to the lighthouse and some restricted areas is only possible with a tour. Reddit

Discounts may be available for Yorkshire Wildlife Trust members. It's always worth checking their website or contacting them directly for any potential concessions or special offers. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Spurn Point offers beautiful coastal walks, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see the historic Spurn Lighthouse. You can explore sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and even spot WW11 pillboxes. Reddit

Yes, Spurn Point can be a great day out for families. Kids will enjoy exploring the beaches and spotting wildlife. Ensure you supervise children closely, especially near the water and on uneven terrain. Reddit

There is a visitor center with a cafe and toilets. The cafe offers refreshments and snacks. Reddit

You can walk to the end of Spurn Point, which is approximately 3 miles from the museum at the entry. Be prepared for a long walk and check tide times. Reddit

Spurn Point is a renowned birdwatching site, especially during migration seasons. You might also spot seals basking on the rocks below the cliffs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Spurn Lighthouse is a prime subject. The rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and dramatic skies offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Look out for WW11 pillboxes and wildlife. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for landscape photography. However, the dramatic coastal scenery is impressive at any time of day, especially with the changing weather. Reddit

Drone usage may be restricted in nature reserves. It's essential to check with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and adhere to all local regulations regarding drone operation before flying. Reddit

While not always advertised, guided tours might offer unique perspectives. It's worth inquiring with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust if they have any photography-focused excursions. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for capturing dramatic skies or low-light conditions. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Spurn Point offers an adventurous day out for families. Kids will love the wide-open spaces to run around on the sandy beaches and explore the dunes. The chance to spot seals and a vast array of birds can be incredibly exciting for young nature enthusiasts. Reddit

Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The walk to the lighthouse is a good distance, so consider if younger children can manage it, or opt for a guided tour that might offer more accessible transport options. Ensure everyone has sturdy shoes and is dressed for the wind and potential sea spray. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Spurn Point is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers as entry to the nature reserve is free. Parking is also free, making it an affordable option for a day trip. Reddit

While guided tours and lighthouse visits have a cost, you can still enjoy the stunning coastal scenery, beaches, and wildlife spotting without spending a penny. Pack your own picnic to save on food expenses, and focus on the natural beauty and the invigorating walks that Spurn Point has to offer. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spurn Lightship: A Maritime Icon

The Spurn Lightship is a significant maritime heritage asset, recently undergoing a meticulous restoration. It was formerly known as LV14 SULA and served as a vital navigational aid in the Humber Estuary. Its return to Hull Marina was a celebrated event, highlighting its importance to the city's maritime identity. Instagram+2

Visitors can now experience this piece of history firsthand. The lightship is moored at its permanent berth in Hull Marina, near the Murdoch's Connection bridge. It's a chance to step aboard and imagine life at sea, with its last remaining 5th Order Optic still fitted, a reminder of its exemplary service. Instagram+1

This restoration project, undertaken by the Spencer Group and Dunston Ship Repairs, has ensured the Spurn Lightship remains a key attraction for maritime enthusiasts and tourists alike. It stands as a testament to Hull's rich seafaring past and its ongoing commitment to preserving its heritage. Instagram+1

Exploring Spurn Point's Natural Beauty

Spurn Point is a dynamic sand dune system and a crucial nature reserve, managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. The peninsula is constantly shaped by the sea, offering a unique and ever-changing landscape. It's a vital stopover point for migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers during spring and autumn. Reddit

The area features diverse habitats, including sandy beaches, scrub, and dunes, providing a rich environment for various flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy cliff-top walks with stunning views out to sea and down onto the rugged beaches below, where seals are often spotted basking on the rocks. Reddit

Be mindful of the coastal environment when visiting. The weather can be unpredictable and windy, so dressing in layers and wearing appropriate footwear is essential. Certain areas are designated as nature reserves and may have restrictions, particularly for dogs, so always follow the guidance provided by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. Reddit

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