Spurn Point National Nature Reserve Visitor Guide 2024

Summary

Spurn Point, a stunning nature reserve in East Yorkshire, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and historical intrigue. Located just south of Kilnsea, this thin peninsula stretches into the Humber Estuary and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and seals. Visitors can explore the area by foot, bike, or the Spurn Safari Unimog, while enjoying the iconic Victorian lighthouse and remnants of military history. Whether you're drawn to the beauty of the landscapes, the diverse fauna, or the fascinating history, Spurn Point promises a rewarding visit for all.

Takeaways

• 😀 Spurn Point is a family-friendly destination in East Yorkshire, offering a unique outdoor adventure in a nature reserve.
• 😀 The location is free to visit, with an optional parking fee contributing to the maintenance of the reserve and Discovery Centre.
• 😀 Spurn Point is a thin peninsula, less than 50 meters wide in places, situated at the mouth of the Humber River, south of Kilnsea.
• 😀 The reserve is accessible by foot, bike, or the Spurn Safari Unimog vehicle, with the Unimog being the easiest way to reach the tip of the peninsula.
• 😀 The iconic Victorian-era Spurn Lighthouse is one of the key attractions, offering stunning views after a climb of 144 steps.
• 😀 Dogs are not allowed at the top of Spurn to protect migratory birds, but there are designated areas where dogs are welcome.
• 😀 The area is prone to high tides and wash over events, which can flood parts of the peninsula, making it impassable at times.
• 😀 Visitors can choose from two main walking routes: a beach route along the North Sea coast or a concrete path along the land.
• 😀 Spurn is rich in historical significance, with remnants from military history, including bunkers, gun emplacements, and a former lifeboat station.
• 😀 The nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, with different seasonal events like migration festivals and seal pupping seasons offering unique wildlife watching opportunities.

Q & A

What is Spurn Point, and where is it located?

Spurn Point is a thin peninsula located in East Yorkshire, stretching 3.5 miles into the Humber Estuary. It is part of the Spurn National Nature Reserve, managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

How can visitors get to Spurn Point?

Spurn Point is accessible by car (about an hour's drive from Hull), by foot, by bicycle, or via the Spurn Safari Unimog, which offers a three-hour tour. A bus service from Hull to Spurn is available on weekends and public holidays starting April 2024.

Is there a cost to park at Spurn Point?

Yes, parking at the Discovery Centre costs £5 for all-day parking. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the reserve. Members of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust can park for free.

Can people with mobility issues visit Spurn Point?

The first 1km of the peninsula is sandy and may be challenging for mobility vehicles. However, there are other parts of the reserve that can be accessed by foot or with the Spurn Safari Unimog, which offers an easier way to reach the tip of the peninsula.

What are the main attractions at Spurn Point?

Key attractions at Spurn Point include the iconic Victorian-era lighthouse, historical military structures like bunkers and searchlight emplacements, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the diverse natural landscapes. The reserve is also a haven for migratory birds, seals, and wildflowers.

Is the lighthouse open to the public?

Yes, the Spurn Point lighthouse is open to the public on Fridays to Sundays. Visitors can climb the 144 steps to the top for stunning views, with tickets available for purchase at the lighthouse.

Can visitors bring dogs to Spurn Point?

Dogs are not allowed at the top of Spurn Point to protect wildlife, particularly migratory birds. However, dogs are permitted in designated areas, such as near Warren Cottage and Kilnsea Beach.

What is a 'wash over' event, and why is it important?

A 'wash over' event occurs when high tide combined with specific weather conditions floods the peninsula, turning it into a tidal island. Visitors should check tide times in advance, as this can make parts of the route impassable.

When is the best time to visit Spurn Point?

Spurn Point is a year-round destination. Spring and autumn are great for bird migrations, while winter offers the chance to see baby seals during the pupping season. Summer visitors can enjoy the wildflower meadows and nesting birds.

Are there any historical sites to explore at Spurn Point?

Yes, Spurn Point has a rich military history, including remains of WWII bunkers, searchlight emplacements, and an old railway track used during wartime. There are also abandoned lifeboat stations and other historical structures scattered throughout the reserve.