Flamborough Head is a striking chalk headland on the Yorkshire coast, known for its sheer white cliffs, panoramic sea views, and thriving seabird colonies. From late spring to mid-summer, puffins nest along the grassy cliff edges, often visible from the well-worn coastal paths that wind between dramatic drop-offs and sea caves. It’s one of the best places in England to watch puffins from land.
The headland is marked by two lighthouses. The older, built in 1674, is one of the earliest surviving examples of its kind in England, while the newer working lighthouse sits proudly on the cliff edge and is open for guided tours. Between the two, a network of trails leads along the cliffs, offering regular sightings of puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes.
There’s parking, a café, and public toilets near the main visitor area, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring. Early morning or evening visits are often quieter and offer the best chances for puffin watching in golden light. With its mix of coastal heritage and wildlife, Flamborough Head is a highlight of Yorkshire’s wild east coast.