Nature spotting in the North

Whale & dolphin watching in the North of England

The North East and North Yorkshire coastlines are becoming increasingly known for spectacular whale and dolphin sightings throughout the summer months. Here are some of the spots where you can get a glimpse of these majestic creatures and other wildlife.

Whitby & The Yorkshire Coast

Nearest station: Whitby

Whitby has become a known whale-watching spot as the creatures have become drawn to the location due to the migration of certain fish species. You can spot minke, fin, humpback, and sei whales along the Yorkshire Coast, as well as bottlenose dolphins and even porpoises. Visitors can take a boat from Whitby Harbour for a day out on the water to try and get an even closer view!

The journey: Catch a train to Whitby train station and then enjoy a short 17-minute stroll to the Whitby coastline.

Filey Beach

Nearest station: Filey

Also located along the Yorkshire Coast, Filey Beach is another prime dolphin spotting location. The best time to spot them is during the early summer mornings or evenings when they are often actively hunting for food. If you're lucky, you could spot a pod of up to 20 of the majestic creatures.

The journey: Take the train to Filey train station and take a 11-minute stroll down to Filey Beach. 

Seaham Beach

Nearest station: Seaham

The shores of Seaham in Durham are another of the North's great dolphin-watching areas in summer. The Marina or North Pier are a couple of the best spots, be sure to take a pair of binoculars for a close-up view. 

You'll also find plenty of places to eat and drink along the Seaham shoreline, so you can take a break when necessary.

The journey: Catch a train to Seaham train station, then take a 25-minute bus or similarly timed stroll down to the Seaham coastline. 

More nature watching spots in the North

When it comes to land animals, you'll find plenty of green leafy spots across the North too! With National Parks and plenty of woodland, you could spend hours spotting deer, red squirrels, otters and more. 

Northumberland National Park

Nearest station: Morpeth

Northumberland National Park is full of stunning views and a vast array of wildlife, including red squirrels, weasels, otters, deer, foxes, and wild goats. The clean rivers that run through the park are also home to several species of fish including salmon and trout!

The journey: Catch a train to Morpeth station and then take the bus journey to Hepple Post Office, just a seven-minute walk from the park. 

Formby Pine Woods & Sand Dunes

Nearest station: Preston

Did you know that you can find red squirrels in Merseyside? This endangered species can often be spotted in Formby Pine Woods, leaping and climbing among the trees. 

You can also spot toads and sand lizards at this location, depending on the season. All little critters that kids are sure to be excited to take a gander at. 

The journey: Catch a train to Preston station, then take the bus journey to Kirklake Bank before making a roughly 30-minute hike to Formby National Trust. 

The Lake District

Nearest stations: Windermere

The Lake District is incredibly accessible by train and offers plenty to see and do. As well as being another area where you can spot the endangered red squirrel, you can also see deer, otters, sheep, stoats, and weasels. There are also animal-based attractions nearby including the Lakes Aquarium and Lake District Wildlife Park where you can see other animals from around the world. 

Plus, the scenery in the Lake District is just incredible, from giant lakes to rolling valleys and high peaks, it really is a hiker or nature lover's paradise. 

The Journey: Simply take the train to Windermere station and you're already there!

                               Go nature spotting in the North this summer

Ready for a summer of spotting majestic whales and dolphins or adorable woodland critters? It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate nature with family and friends. Book your train tickets in advance to save up to 60% and download the Northern App to skip the booking fees and save even more!