Spurn National Nature Reserve

image: Harry Appleyard

The evocative landscape of Spurn National Nature Reserve is renowned for its expansive skies and diverse wildlife. Managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, this iconic reserve offers visitors a constantly changing natural environment.

About Spurn Point

Spurn Point, often compared to a northern version of Land’s End, is a unique, ever-shifting peninsula stretching into the North Sea and the Humber Estuary. At over three miles in length but just 50 metres wide at some points, this dynamic landscape offers a truly distinctive experience for nature lovers and adventurers.

Key Features of Spurn Point:

• Over three miles long and as narrow as 50 metres
• Rich historical background with derelict buildings
• Famous for bird migration and wildlife diversity
• A variety of landscapes: beach, mudflats, dunes, grasslands, and more

Wildlife and Bird Migration

Spurn is a significant destination for bird migration, attracting large numbers of species throughout the year. The proximity to the Humber Estuary, an area of international importance, means visitors can witness migratory birds in both spring and autumn, as well as during winter.

Wildlife Highlights:

• Bird species including curlew, grey plover, knot, and brent geese
• Impressive insect movements such as butterflies, dragonflies, and hoverflies
• Flourishing flora like sea holly, sea lavender, and pyramidal orchids
• Regular sightings of roe deer and occasional foxes
• Chance sightings of harbour porpoises and minke whales offshore

Habitats of Spurn

The reserve is home to a variety of habitats, supporting a rich diversity of plants and wildlife:

• Beach and mudflats: Prime areas for birdwatching, especially for wading birds during high tide.
• Saltmarsh and dunes: Colourful plants such as sea lavender and sea rocket thrive in these zones.
• Grassland: Managed through grazing by Hebridean sheep and longhorn cattle, it’s the perfect environment for wildflowers and rare plants.

Spurn Lighthouse

The Victorian-era Spurn Lighthouse stands as a testament to Yorkshire’s maritime history. Built in 1895, it guided sailors for over 90 years and was recently named Lighthouse of the Year 2023 by the Association of Lighthouse Keepers. It is now open for tours, offering visitors the chance to explore this cultural and architectural landmark.

Visitor Information

Spurn Discovery Centre

The Spurn Discovery Centre provides a great base for your visit. With a café, toilets, educational exhibits, and event spaces, the centre is the ideal place to start your exploration of Spurn.

Normal opening times

• Discovery Centre is open daily 9am-5pm
• Cafe is open daily 10am – 4pm
• Car park: Open dawn ’til dusk.

Tide Times

Spurn’s unique geography means it is heavily influenced by the tides. A 1km section of the peninsula is submerged at high tide, turning the tip of Spurn into Yorkshire’s first ‘island.’ Visitors should check tide times and weather conditions before crossing, as this area can be hazardous.

Important Visitor Information:

• Check tide times to avoid crossing the washover area during high tide
• The nature reserve may close during severe weather for safety reasons
• Be aware of brown tail moth caterpillars, which can cause allergic reactions

Location Details:

• Address: Spurn Head, south of Kilnsea, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU12 0UH
• Size: 327 hectares
• Grazing animals: Hebridean sheep, longhorn cattle
• Walking trails: Open year-round unless impacted by weather
• Access: May be restricted during bad weather for safety
• Dogs: Limited access
• Best time to visit: March to November

Plan Your Visit

To learn more and plan your trip, visit the official Yorkshire Wildlife Trust website at Spurn National Nature Reserve.
Accessibility info here.