The Yorkshire seaside resort has a bucket-and-spade reputation with miles of sands, big-view cliffs, perfect sunrises, a busy harbour and beach huts. Michael Harrison has worked in Bridlington’s leisure industry for more than 40 years on the seafront area and when he has a day off, he says: ‘I can’t think of anything better than taking a busman’s holiday!
Miles of sand – South Beach at low tide, perfect for a walk MORNING
I’m always drawn to our beautiful coastline.
I would start the morning early on the South Beach and I would walk north on the miles of mostly deserted sandy beach where you’ll encounter a few joggers, dog walkers and maybe some brave swimmers. You can watch the sun rise over the flat sea, seeing it emerging like a ball of fire, absolutely stunning. I’d continue my walk towards the historic harbour picking up a few seashells along the way. I pass the Spa buildings which have a lot of history – The Beatles played there and it was the venue for Oasis’ last concert. The venue still brings the big names to Bridlington.
Out at sea you might see a seal basking in the morning as the fishing boats come in with the daily catch of lobster and crab.
At the Floral Pavilion I can smell the coffee and get my first of the day at Jerome Bar & Cafe
get my first coffee of the day and maybe a full English!
I see a crowd gathering along the sea wall – they are watching a pool of dolphins swimming in the bay almost coming up to the seawall.
Walking north towards Flamborough Head, the cliffs in the distance look stunning. This part of the North Beach is more rugged than the south. Walk up towards pretty Sewerby Village, passing the cricket club on the left. The cliff is quite high so you don’t want to get too close to the edge!
Beautiful Sewerby Park and gardens (sewerbyhall.co.uk) is a nice place to visit if you want a quieter day away from the hustle and bustle of the seafront. Explore the Walled, Pleasure and Rose Gardens or stroll along the Woodland Walk. Children will love the zoo and playground.
Live entertainment is a regular feature at the pavilion so it’s worth checking out what’s on. I might make my way to the Brunswick Hotel, a traditional hotel pub where the fishermen hang out in the bar with the locals clientele. What draws me to the pub is the friendly landlord and his hand-pulled beer from the East Yorkshire Wold Top Brewery.
I’m now thinking dinner to finish my day meeting a few friends at the award winning SALT on the Harbour. Yes, a fish restaurant with a downstairs conservatory area and bar that is well suited for families and welcomes dogs.
The views are stunning with colourful fishing boats bobbing up and down right outside windows. You couldn’t be closer to the water!
Upstairs restaurant this area is relaxed with an extensive menu, predominantly fish and shellfish, fish and chips. The atmosphere is brilliant – it could be anywhere and has a Yorkshire-Med feel – with amazing smells coming from the kitchen.
Start with oysters, mussels, hand-dived scallops in garlic butter, tempura squid or garlic prawns? Main course has to be the famous Bridlington Bay lobster grilled with a lemon butter – or will it be the monkfish? Enjoy it with a chilled French muscadet.and a dessert of apple tarte tatin. The young team of chefs are excellent. We might stay the night in one of the rooms overlooking the harbour for great views to wake up to. harrisonleisure.com
To elevate your visit to Bridlington, you can hire a chalet and have your very own space on the beach front. Chalets come with deck chairs, patio chairs, electricity and access to a water tap. The chalets are directly on the beach, making them ideal for children who love to play in the sand. There’s also a group of pods to rent by the beach.
eastridingcoastandcountryside.co.uk
Secret beach
Danes Dyke is a 148 acre nature reserve on Flamborough headland. The dyke is prehistoric in origin and was constructed as a defensive feature protecting five square miles of land lying to the east. The reserve is part of the Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast. You can explore by following a trail through woodland to a small secluded cove.
visiteastyorkshire.co.uk
Explore Old Town
Coloquially known as ‘The Other Side of the Seaside’, Bridlington Old Town is the cultural side of this seaside town.
Bridlington Old Town encompasses the Bridlington Priory Church, Bayle Museum along with the wonders of the Bridlington Old Town High Street and Market Place which were the set for the Dad’s Army Movie. It’s the place to find local independent shops, art galleries and restaurants.
Bridlington Old Town Association’ Secret Gardens event is on July 19&20 when you can mooch round local gardens in the historic village. On the 20th there’s also a summer fete on the church green. Facebook: Bridlington Old Town Association. bridlingtonoldtown.co.uk
