Bempton Cliffs

The RSPB reserve at Bempton Cliffs, not far from Bridlington, is quite simply the best place in England to see, hear and smell seabirds. Everyone knows about the puffins – here between April and July, and easily seen from the viewing points – but between March and October (breeding season) the reserve welcomes something like a quarter of a million other nesting birds, from gannets and guillemots to razorbills and kittiwakes. It's an extraordinary sight (and sound and smell, as you'll soon be reminded), and the RSPB staff are on hand to help you identify species and enjoy the spectacle. Nest-cams and CCTV bring some of the nesting action right into the Visitor Centre. Autumn and winter bring their own rewards too, whether it's the arrival of the thrushes or the over-wintering of the short-eared owls, and the cliff-top walks, nature trails and bird-viewing stations are accessible at any time of year.  Between May and August can also do boat trips to the foot of the cliffs – a three-hour cruise that's well worth taking.