Investment helps RSPB Bempton Cliff reach record high visitor numbers
RSPB Bempton Cliffs, one of the top visitor attractions in Yorkshire, has seen significant growth in visitor numbers following support from Invest East Yorkshire Business Support Services Team,
Visitor numbers at the nature reserve reached an all-time high in 2025.
RSPB Bempton Cliffs, saw 135,561 visitors in 2025, an 18% increase on the previous year. It is both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is renowned for its puffin colony, as well as being the only mainland breeding colony of gannets in England.
The venue attracts thousands of visitors each year, particularly during puffin season.
The flagship nature reserve also wanted to extend its visitor season and increase year-round footfall.
Through Invest East Yorkshire’s business support programme, RSPB Bempton accessed a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grant, provided by the Government, supporting them to undertake targeted advertising across regional media and social platforms, as well as the team accessing free social media workshops and ongoing business advice.
Councillor Anne Handley, East Riding of Yorkshire Council leader, said: “It is great to see how Bempton Cliffs has been able to increase its visibility and start to increase its tourism season, with the help of new marketing activities.
“This success shows how targeted funding can generate wider economic impact for an entire local supply chain, with the opportunities for accommodation providers, restaurants and other independent businesses in the region to benefit from the increased visitor numbers.”
Dave O Hara, Rreserve manager, said: “Thanks to Invest East Yorkshire, we were able to invest in marketing RSPB Bempton Cliffs as a year-round visitor attraction, increasing visits in the shoulder seasons, so spreading visitor numbers across the year. This contributed to an amazing year for visitor numbers, our highest on record.”