Danes Dyke Beach

About Danes Dyke Beach

Danes Dyke is a beautiful and historic coastal location near the village of Flamborough, just a short distance from Bridlington in East Yorkshire. It is one of the most peaceful and naturally rich areas along this stretch of coastline, offering a combination of woodland, cliffs, and a secluded beach. The site is part of the dramatic Flamborough Headland, an area well known for its striking white chalk cliffs and important wildlife habitats.

The name “Danes Dyke” refers to a large earthwork that cuts across the headland. This ancient defensive ditch is believed to date back to the Iron Age, although local legend once claimed it was built by Danish invaders. The earthwork stretches from coast to coast across the narrowest part of the headland, forming a natural defensive barrier. Today, it remains clearly visible and is one of the most significant historical features in the area, giving visitors a glimpse into Britain’s distant past.

Danes Dyke is now managed as a nature reserve by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. The woodland surrounding the dyke is rich in plant life, particularly in spring when the forest floor is covered in bluebells and wild garlic. The trees provide shelter for a variety of birds, insects, and small mammals, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.

A network of walking trails winds through the woodland and leads down to a small, quiet beach below the cliffs. The beach is more rugged than Bridlington’s sandy shores, with pebbles and rock pools exposed at low tide. It is a peaceful spot, ideal for exploring marine life or simply enjoying the sound of waves against the chalk cliffs. The surrounding coastline forms part of the Flamborough Head area, which is famous for seabirds such as puffins and gannets during the nesting season.

Are dogs allowed on Bridlington South Beach?

Dogs are allowed to be exercised at Danes Dyke and there are no restrictions like there are at busier beaches. The nature reserve and the coastal path are great for those who want to take their dog on a longer walk.

Getting to Danes Dyke Beach

Address: Danes Dyke, Danes Dyke Nature Reserve, Bridlington, YO15 1AA

There’s a few ways you can get to Danes Dyke and it’s a really accessible location, despite being quite remote and quiet in comparison to other Yorkshire seaside beaches.

On Foot

Danes Dyke is conveniently located just a short distance from Sewerby and is easily accessible without needing to go too far off the beaten track.

From Bridlington

Head North from North Beach towards Sewerby (and Sewerby Hall and Gardens). You will need to navigate through Marton village where you will be able to access Danes Dyke nature reserve. Once you reach the reserve, head towards the car park and toilet facilities. Just a stones throw from here you will find the beach. The walk is just over 4 miles.

From Flamborough

Starting at Flamborough Head car park, access the coastal pathway via the rear of the lighthouse and head right with the coastline on your left. Stick with the path until you reach South Landing, where you will cross over passed the coastguard building. You will see some steep steps back up the cliff and you can continue on your journey to Danes Dyke (you will come to a small piece of woodland just before you reach Danes Dyke beach). The walk is around 3.5 miles.

By Car

You can park directly at Danes Dyke nature reserve, leaving just a short 2 minute walk to the beach itself. The turn off is just through the village of Marton and, if coming from Bridlington, just past Sewerby Hall and near to Bridlington Golf Course. There is a main car park which can get full quite quickly, and then an overflow car park which is on grassland, but most vehicles should be able to cope with the terrain.

The roads are single track, but it’s a one way system, so larger vehicles should be fine to travel down the road. Parking is both car parks is around £2.90 for all day (great if you’re planning walking down the coastal path).

By Bus

The nearest bus stop is on the B1255 Bridlington to Flamborough road, which is just a 10-15 minute walk down to the beach through the nature reserve. You can use the EYMS bus route from Bridlington to Flamborough (and vice versa) to get to Danes Dyke.