
Wilsthorpe Beach
Expansive golden sands meet classic seaside charm at Wilsthorpe Beach, perfect for family fun, dog walks, and vibrant events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter sands, pleasant weather

Wilsthorpe Beach
Best Time
Quieter sands, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive golden sands meet classic seaside charm at Wilsthorpe Beach, perfect for family fun, dog walks, and vibrant events.
"Stunning golden beach with great waves and a lifeguard always on site. "

πΎ Respect Dog Zones
Adhere to designated dog-friendly areas to avoid a Β£1,000 fine. :dog:
π’ Book Boat Trips Early
Yorkshire Belle trips sell out fast, especially on bank holidays. Book ahead! :ticket:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sands
Wilsthorpe Beach
Expansive golden sands perfect for strolls, sunbathing, and family fun. Lifeguards ensure a safe experience.

Harbour Views
Bridlington Harbour
Enjoy charming seaside atmosphere and picturesque views from the bustling harbour.

Race the Waves
Wilsthorpe Beach
Witness thrilling car and bike races on the beach during this spectacular annual event.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog Rules & Beach Zones
Booking Ahead for Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
πΎ Respect Dog Zones
Adhere to designated dog-friendly areas to avoid a Β£1,000 fine. :dog:
π’ Book Boat Trips Early
Yorkshire Belle trips sell out fast, especially on bank holidays. Book ahead! :ticket:
π¦ Seaside Treats
Enjoy classic fish and chips and ice cream by the water. :ice_cream:
π Park & Ride Option
Consider the park & ride for events like Race the Waves to ease parking. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
πΎ Respect Dog Zones
Adhere to designated dog-friendly areas to avoid a Β£1,000 fine. :dog:
π’ Book Boat Trips Early
Yorkshire Belle trips sell out fast, especially on bank holidays. Book ahead! :ticket:
π¦ Seaside Treats
Enjoy classic fish and chips and ice cream by the water. :ice_cream:
π Park & Ride Option
Consider the park & ride for events like Race the Waves to ease parking. :car:
ποΈ Beach Hut Hire
Rent a beach hut for a comfortable and convenient seaside experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wilsthorpe Beach is widely praised for its stunning golden sands and family-friendly atmosphere, with lifeguards ensuring safety. Visitors enjoy the classic seaside charm, harbour views, and local treats like fish and chips. However, strict dog restrictions and the potential for crowds during peak times are points to note.
"We had such a wonderful day in Bridlington! The beaches here are absolutely stunning β long, wide, and perfect for a summer stroll. One thing to keep in mind is that the beach areas are divided, and dogs are not allowed on certain sections during the season. Thereβs even a Β£1,000 fine for breaking the rules, so itβs best to stick to the designated dog-friendly areas.
That said, thereβs still plenty of space for everyone β the beach is so huge that youβll easily find your own perfect spot, whether youβre here with family, friends, or your four-legged companions.
A walk along the harbour is a must β the views are lovely, and the atmosphere is full of seaside charm. And of course, no trip to Bridlington would be complete without enjoying some delicious fish and chips by the water. ππ
We truly recommend this place for both adults and children. If you want to see more of our day, check out our video from Bridlington on our YouTube channel β itβs the perfect way to capture the magic of this beautiful coastal town."
Magical Kate
"Fantastic golden beach with great waves and a life guard always on site. There's also the superb RNLI on standby. Lovely tea, coffee and ice cream venders very nearby, alongside public toilets. There are also beach huts for hire. One of the best beaches in the country."
Andrew Ibbotson
"It was Race the Waves weekend (14-15 June) and it was spectacular seeing all the cars and bikes race across the beach. We parked at the park & ride (Β£6.50 all day) and walked along the beach to watch. It was very popular and you could see the race right across the beach, along the road, and along the grassy banks!"
Elisa Winstanley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
Wilsthorpe Beach is located in Bridlington, East Yorkshire. You can reach Bridlington by car via the A165 or by train to Bridlington station. From the town center, it's a short walk or bus ride to the beach.
Yes, there are parking facilities available, including a park & ride option for events like Race the Waves, which costs around Β£6.50 for the day.
Dogs are allowed on Wilsthorpe Beach, but only in designated areas. Be sure to check the signage to avoid fines.
For a day trip, driving is convenient, or you can take a train to Bridlington station. Local buses can then take you to the beach area.
During events like Race the Waves, vehicles are permitted on the beach for the races. For general visitors, parking is typically in designated areas off the beach.
π« π« Tickets & Entry
Wilsthorpe Beach itself is free to access. However, some attractions or activities, like boat trips or beach hut hire, will have separate costs.
Wilsthorpe Beach is generally accessible at all times, as it's a public beach. However, facilities like toilets and vendors will have specific operating hours.
No, general access to Wilsthorpe Beach does not require booking tickets. However, popular attractions like the Yorkshire Belle boat trips often require advance booking, especially during peak season.
Yes, there are significant fines, such as a Β£1,000 fine, for not adhering to dog restrictions on certain beach sections. Always check local signage.
Information on booking the Yorkshire Belle can usually be found through local Bridlington tourism websites or by contacting the operators directly. It's recommended to book well in advance.
π« π§ Onsite Experience
Activities include sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere. Events like Race the Waves offer unique spectacles.
Yes, there is a lifeguard on duty, ensuring a safer environment for swimmers and beachgoers.
Facilities include public toilets, ice cream and food vendors, and beach huts for hire.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic beach for families with its wide sands, safe swimming conditions, and nearby amenities.
It offers a classic seaside experience with a nostalgic feel, especially around the harbour and nearby attractions.
π½οΈ π½οΈ Food & Dining
There are several vendors along the promenade offering fish and chips, ice cream, tea, and coffee. The harbour area also has various dining options.
Bridlington is known for its fish and chips, with many highly-rated options available near the harbour and along the seafront.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics and snacks to enjoy on the beach.
While classic seaside fare is prevalent, many establishments in Bridlington offer a range of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. It's best to check menus beforehand.
Prices are typical for seaside resorts, with ice creams and hot drinks being affordable, and meals like fish and chips being moderately priced.
πΈ πΈ Photography
Capture the vast golden sands, the picturesque harbour, the unique Race the Waves event, and the charming beach huts.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant atmosphere during events.
The Bridlington Harbour, the RNLI station, and the colourful beach huts provide excellent photographic subjects.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Popular shots include wide beach vistas, ice cream cones with the sea in the background, and action shots from events like Race the Waves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
π¨βπ©βπ§ Families with Kids
While dogs are welcome, be mindful of the designated dog zones to avoid fines. Consider renting a beach hut for a comfortable base with shade and storage for all your family's gear. The nearby harbour also offers a pleasant walk and a different view of the seaside town.
πΆ Dog Owners
Beyond the beach, the promenade and harbour areas offer pleasant walking routes. Remember to bring waste bags and keep your dog under control, especially during busy periods.
π Day-Trippers
If you're visiting during an event like Race the Waves, be prepared for crowds and consider booking any desired attractions, like boat trips, in advance. The beach's amenities, including toilets and food vendors, make it easy to spend a full day here without needing to venture far.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Wilsthorpe Beach: A Visitor's Guide
Beyond the main beach area, the Bridlington Harbour offers a charming contrast with its bustling atmosphere, boats, and seaside eateries. A walk along the harbour is a quintessential part of the Bridlington experience, providing lovely views and a taste of local life. For those seeking unique experiences, events like Race the Waves transform the beach into a spectacle of motorsports, drawing large crowds and offering thrilling sights.
Practical amenities are readily available, including public toilets, various food vendors selling classic seaside treats like fish and chips and ice cream, and the option to hire beach huts for a more comfortable day out. The RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) also has a presence, adding to the sense of safety and community. The beach's sheer size means that even during busy periods, it's usually possible to find a quieter spot to relax.
Experiencing Bridlington's Seaside Charm
Beyond the beach itself, the harbour is a focal point, brimming with fishing boats and offering a lively atmosphere. It's the perfect place to enjoy some of the town's famous fish and chips while watching the world go by. For a different perspective, consider a boat trip on the Yorkshire Belle, though booking in advance is highly recommended as these popular excursions can sell out quickly, especially during peak times.
The area also hosts unique events like Race the Waves, where cars and bikes race across the sand, creating an exciting spectacle. This event highlights the beach's versatility, transforming it from a peaceful retreat into an adrenaline-fueled arena. The presence of beach huts adds to the picturesque scenery and offers a convenient base for families or groups.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit