There is nothing more beautiful than a beach glittering with frost in the early morning sun, silhouetted by a pale blue winter sky with birds calling on the breeze and the promise of a hot drink once you’ve finished braving the elements.

Spurn Point has it all; a narrow, curved spit of land that divides the Humber from the North Sea, a constantly-changing landscape under incredible big skies, long beaches, and a full day out of places to explore for day-trippers, families and walkers alike.

Free to visit, with free parking for Yorkshire Wildlife Trust members, Spurn is the perfect weekend wander or opportunity to escape everyday stresses. A full trip out to the end of the Point is a true adventure; including the lighthouse and return trip, it’s a 7 mile walk or bike ride along sandy terrain. For those keen on a shorter walk, the reserve’s beautiful pale sandy beach offers views out to sea, the chance for some excellent beachcombing, and some breath-taking photo opportunities. A map and details are available at the Trust’s Discovery Centre, and certificates are available for those who make it to the end of the Point and back.

Spurn has a rich defence history, including military tunnels and gun emplacements, the remains of a railway track, and Spurn lighthouse – restored in 2015, and open to the public at weekends. For those feeling fit, the lighthouse offers incredible views across the Humber and North Sea from its lamp room at the top, with landings at convenient levels showing more about the reserve’s history. 

Spurn is well-known for its incredible birdlife. A nature reserve cared for by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust for over 60 years, rarities arrive on spring and autumn migration. Listen out over winter for honking Brent geese, keep your eyes peeled for a starling murmuration at dusk, watch flocks of finches dart through the bushes and look up for birds of prey like merlins wheeling overhead. You might spot a barn or short eared owl. Deer browse through the grass and harbour seals bob in the smooth waters of the estuary. The Trust’s Highland cows and belted Galloways lumber their way slowly through the landscape, helping to graze for the flowers and insect-rich grasslands that will return in the spring.

The café arguably has one of the best estuary views to enjoy, with a proper brew and special Yuletide menu. Stop off for full Yorkshire breakfast, take a light lunch including soups and winter warmers, or try seasonally-themed light bites, sourced where possible from local and Yorkshire suppliers. A wildlife-themed shop is stocked with wildlife-themed Christmas gifts. By spending in the café or shop, you are supporting the work of the Trust caring for special places like Spurn, making those delicious treats taste that little bit sweeter.

Spurn really is the perfect adventure this winter – and a chance to have a really, truly wild experience.

Spurn is about 45 minutes’ drive from Hull, with paid-for parking onsite or free for Trust members, join online or when you visit Become a member | YWT.

The reserve is open all day, and the Discovery Centre is open from 10am until 4pm. Please check tide-times before walking across the Washover – more information can be found at the Visitor Centre or Spurn National Nature Reserve | Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

The reserve will be shut between 22nd and 25th December; open again on Boxing Day.