Where to spot whales in Yorkshire: The best places on 152km coastline to spot during prime time
Yorkshire might be synonymous with moorland scenery, but it’s also blessed with a 152km coastline.
Between June and October, these shorelines become a popular feeding ground for whales.
“The reason it's such a hotspot at this time of year is that the area off our coast is a big herring spawning ground,” says Robin Petch, an ambassador for Sea Watch Foundation. “We have hundreds and hundreds of minke whales off the coast here.”
According to North York Moors National Park, September is the prime time for sightings. Minke whales are the most commonly sighted in the UK, although for the luckiest watchers, it’s also possible to spot humpback, fin, and sperm whales.
Last month, Sea Watch Foundation reported dozens of whale sightings across Yorkshire. Whether you stay onshore or book a whale watching boat tour, now is the time to grab some trusty binoculars.
RSPB Bempton Cliffs
Bempton Cliffs are known for their puffins, but in autumn, this nature reserve becomes a hotspot for a slightly larger species. In 2025, Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) established RSPB Bempton Cliffs as England’s first Shorewatch site.
Bring binoculars or a long-lens camera, and you might get lucky; minke whales have recently been spotted offshore. “Talk to the volunteers and get their guidance,” says Susanna O'Neill, administrator at RSPB Bempton Cliffs. She recommends the viewing platform at Bartlett NAB, which is connected to the visitor centre via an accessible path.
Flamborough Head
Flamborough Head is listed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Between April and July, its chalk-white cliffs are covered with kittiwakes and puffins, but like Bempton Cliffs, attention shifts to the ocean in autumn. With binoculars and a little bit of luck, it’s possible to spot minke whales from the Flamborough Head Circular Trail.
Filey Brigg
To spot whales from the shoreline, Filey Brigg is another hotspot. Its narrow peninsula offers a great vantage point, and minke whales have been spotted in recent weeks. As a designated SSSI, there is a good chance of spotting other wildlife as you wait.
Staithes
It might be a small harbour village, but Staithes has three operators providing whale watching tours: Yorkshire Coast Nature, Real Staithes, and Three Sisters Sea Trips. To spot whales from the water, Staithes is a good place to start.
Whitby
Throughout September, Whitby Coastal Cruises runs wildlife cruises. Aside from whales, the boat trips have regular bottlenose dolphin sightings.