5 OF THE BEST FOSSIL HUNTING BEACHES IN YORKSHIRE

The Yorkshire coast is probably the second most popular area in the UK for fossil hunting. The same Jurassic fossils, famously found along Dorset’s Heritage Coastline, can be found here. Some of the most popular and, in some cases, commercialised fossil areas are Whitby, Port Mulgrave and Robin Hood’s Bay. However, inspite of this, there are still lots to be found and reptile remains are frequently being found here. Yorkshire is also well known for its Jurassic plant remains, which are in outstanding condition.

Our top 5 beaches include:

1.  Saltwick Bay - finds include ammonites, reptiles, shells, and is also famous for jet, a minor gemstone and popular for jewellery. Ammonites are found in nodules, which are easy to split and found along the foreshore. 

2.  Whitby - finds will be similar to Saltwick bay, but there may be more competition in your search at such a popular beach.

3.  Staithes - Ammonites are quite common at Staithes and you don't need to walk far to find them. They can be found in nodules along the foreshore or within ledges and are easy to pick out.

4.  Kettleness -  is the most productive location in Yorkshire for reptile remains. These are common and can be found loose or in nodules.

5.  Robin Hood's Bay - Robin Hood’s Bay yields excellent ammonites. The best area to collect from is the north side. Head down the footpath to the left of the main street passing a picnic area before reaching the beach.

Be sure to check the tide times before you go as you want to arrive at low tide and make sure you are safely inshore before high tide.

Stay well away from the cliffs as they are known for falling rocks and shale.

If you would prefer to go fossil hunting with a guide you can join Yorkshire Fossil Hunting Tours. 

COSTS Adults £20 + Vat Children (under 16) £10 + Vat

There are no more dates now for 2024

2025 dates are due to be released early November. 

Please sign up to our newsletter to be informed of the 2025 dates as soon as they are available.