Hunt Cliff
Hunt Cliff
The reserve forms part of the cliffs at Saltburn, with Hunt Cliff being among the highest cliffs in England. The cliff face is of regional importance for nesting kittiwakes and other seabirds such as fulmar and cormorant. These can be spotted from the beach at Saltburn, or watched from the cliff top as they soar on thermals or return to their nests with food for their young.
The cliffs are also of interest for their house martin colony – a rare example of this bird nesting in its natural habitat.
In summer the cliff top provides a splash of colour as many wildflowers begin to show on the coastal grasslands, including the scarce dyer’s greenweed, three species of orchid, and other plants such as spiny restharrow, sea plantain and wild carrot.
Location
Coastal cliffs to the east of Saltburn (Grid reference NZ 677217)
Access
Access to the cliff top is via the Cleveland Way Which leaves Saltburn Seafront next to the Ship Inn. The cliff face can also be viewed from the beach.
This site is well-served by car parks at Saltburn and a well-constructed footpath (and steps) runs to the cliff top.
Interpretive panels at the Ship Inn describe the area’s geological interest and at the top of Hunt Cliff a panel describes the bird life and flora of the area. Further along the coast path are a number of artworks linked to the Heritage Coast.