Bridlington Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bridlington with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit places, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Bridlington

Bridlington is a charming coastal town located on the east coast of Yorkshire, England, and has been a popular tourist destination for over a century. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, scenic landscapes, and plenty of things to do.

List of Places to Visit in Bridlington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Bayle Museum: a unique museum located in a 15th-century gatehouse showcasing the history of Bridlington
  • Sewerby Hall and Gardens: a stunning Georgian mansion surrounded by beautiful landscapes, featuring a museum, zoo, and cafe
  • Bridlington Priory Church: an impressive church with a rich history that dates back to the 12th century
  • The Harbour Heritage Museum: a fascinating museum that tells the story of Bridlington’s fishing industry

Natural Attractions of Bridlington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • North Beach: a popular beach with golden sands, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with plenty of bars and restaurants nearby
  • South Beach: another lovely beach with a promenade, award-winning coastal gardens, and fantastic views of Flamborough Head
  • Flamborough Head: a beautiful chalk headland with iconic lighthouse, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs, ideal for hiking and birdwatching
  • Danes Dyke: a nature reserve with ancient woodlands, wildflowers, and a beautiful secluded beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bridlington

Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Bridlington include:

  • The Promenade: a flat, easy coastal path perfect for a leisurely walk or cycle, offering stunning sea views
  • The Yorkshire Nature Triangle: a network of trails and paths that connects some of the best nature reserves and birdwatching sites in the area
  • The Wolds Way: a lengthy hiking trail that passes through the Yorkshire Wolds, with breathtaking views of the countryside and coastline

Best Things to Do in Bridlington: Activities and Tours

  • Bridlington Spa: a modern entertainment complex hosting a varied program of live music, comedy shows, and theater performances
  • John Bull World of Rock: a fun candy store and museum that showcases the history of traditional rock-making in the UK
  • East Riding Leisure Bridlington: a state-of-the-art leisure complex that offers a range of activities, including swimming, gym, and fitness classes
  • Bridlington Harbour Boat Trips: a fantastic way to explore the coastline, with trips to nearby places such as Flamborough Head and Bempton Cliffs

Week-Long Itinerary for Bridlington

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Bridlington Priory Church and the Bayle Museum, followed by a relaxing walk along North Beach
Day 2 Explore Sewerby Hall and Gardens, including the zoo and the museums, followed by a scenic drive to Flamborough Head
Day 3 Take a boat trip from Bridlington Harbour to Bempton Cliffs, renowned for its seabirds, and visit John Bull World of Rock
Day 4 Spend the day at South Beach, with its award-winning gardens and themed mini-golf course
Day 5 Go for a hike or bike ride along the Yorkshire Nature Triangle, and enjoy a picnic in the countryside
Day 6 Relax at East Riding Leisure Bridlington, and catch a show or performance at Bridlington Spa in the evening
Day 7 Visit Danes Dyke, a nature reserve that also offers fossil hunting and beachcombing opportunities, and explore the Harbour Heritage Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Bridlington

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and chips: a classic British dish best enjoyed on the beach or at one of the many seafood restaurants in Bridlington
  • Lobster and crab: fresh and locally caught seafood can be found throughout the town
  • Bridlington pudding: a type of suet pudding made with beef, onions, and seasonings, served with a rich gravy and perfect for a hearty meal

Local Beverages

  • Wold Top Brewery: a local brewery that produces a range of award-winning beers and ciders, available in many pubs and bars in Bridlington
  • Spirit of Yorkshire: a whisky distillery that offers tours and tastings, perfect for whisky lovers

Where to Stay in Bridlington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bridlington offers a variety of places to stay, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best accommodation options include:

  • The Royal Hotel: a historic hotel located on the seafront, offering fantastic views and luxurious amenities
  • The Kilburn Guest House: a charming bed and breakfast situated in a quiet residential area, offering comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast
  • The Spa Holiday Apartments: spacious self-catering apartments that are perfect for families or groups, with easy access to the beach

What to Buy in Bridlington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Bridlington include:

  • Seashells and fossils: the beaches of Bridlington are full of interesting seashells and rocks, perfect for collectors
  • Candy and chocolate: Bridlington is known for its traditional candy stores and chocolate shops, where you can find unique sweets and treats
  • Local crafts and artwork: Bridlington is home to many talented artists and makers, who sell their products in shops and galleries throughout the town

Local Culture and Customs of Bridlington

Bridlington is a town with rich history, traditions, and a strong sense of community. Some things to keep in mind when visiting Bridlington include:

  • Respect the local wildlife, especially the seabirds and other animals in the nature reserves
  • Be mindful of the local fishing industry, which is an important part of Bridlington’s heritage, and support sustainable practices
  • Embrace the town’s Victorian and Georgian architecture, including the colorful seaside houses, antique shops, and museums

Best Time to Visit Bridlington

The best time to visit Bridlington is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the town is buzzing with activity and events. However, even in the off-season, Bridlington has plenty to offer, including quiet beaches, picturesque landscapes, and cozy pubs and restaurants.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bridlington

Do:

  • Do visit the Harbour Heritage Museum and learn about the town’s fishing traditions
  • Do take a boat trip to Bempton Cliffs and see the puffins and other seabirds
  • Do try some locally caught seafood and Bridlington pudding
  • Do explore the countryside and nature reserves on foot or by bike

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the local wildlife or ecosystems
  • Don’t ignore the town’s history and cultural heritage, including the museums and landmarks
  • Don’t leave without trying some local beer or whisky

Safety and Health

Safety in Bridlington

Bridlington is generally a safe and friendly town to visit, but some precautions to take include:

  • Be aware of any potential hazards when hiking or walking along the cliffs or beaches
  • Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas
  • Take care when swimming in the sea, and follow any safety guidelines

Health in Bridlington

Bridlington has several medical centers and hospitals, including the Bridlington Hospital and the Eastgate Medical Group. Visitors are advised to take out travel insurance before arrival.

Getting to Bridlington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bridlington

The nearest airports to Bridlington are Humberside Airport, which is approximately 40 minutes away by car, and Leeds Bradford Airport, which is about 90 minutes away.

Bus Stations Near Bridlington

Bridlington has a bus station in the town center, with regular services to nearby towns and cities, including Hull and York.

Other Options

Bridlington is easy to reach by car, with good access from the A165 and the A614. There are several car parks located around the town, including some near the beaches and other tourist attractions.

How to Get Around in Bridlington

Bridlington is a compact town that is easy to get around on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances or for those with mobility issues.

Where to Go Next from Bridlington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bridlington is a great base for exploring other nearby towns and attractions, including:

  • Scarborough: another charming seaside town with beautiful beaches and historic landmarks
  • York: a historic city with ancient walls, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture
  • The North York Moors National Park: a vast wilderness of moors and heather, with plenty of trails and hikes

Conclusion

Bridlington is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a mix of coastal beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in learning about the town’s cultural heritage, exploring the natural landscapes, or simply relaxing on the beach, Bridlington has something for everyone.

Bridlington Seafront Bridlington Seafront Sewerby Hall Sewerby Hall