Fossil Hunting in Whitby

Formed over millions of years, shells, fossils, and even dinosaur footprints dot the seafront. Fossil hunting in Whitby is a popular attraction, with several key sites within easy reach.

If you want to lay your hands on a Whitby fossil souvenir on your next trip, we’ve got you covered.

Keep reading to discover the best beaches, what to look for, and some tips and tricks for fossil hunting in Whitby…

---

About Fossil Hunting in Whitby

Every year, thousands of fossil hunters, palaeontologists and amateur diggers head to the Whitby coast. There, they look for things like:

• Ammonites: Extinct sea life that can be over 100 million years old. Ammonites usually look like circular shells and range in size from tiny to palm-sized (if you’re lucky!).
• Belemnites: From an animal similar to squids that went extinct along with dinosaurs, belemnites look like little tubes.

You’ll also find a selection of shells, plants and bivalves that tell the story of millions of years of marine history. Experts also study the cliff faces for traces of dinosaur and reptile remains.

Whitby Jet

The North Yorkshire coast is also famous for its top-quality Jet stones. Jet is actually fossilised tree wood from the Jurassic period, formed by over 100 million years of compression.

While it can be found in many places, the jet that washes up on the Yorkshire coast is some of the finest in the world. It’s known as Whitby Jet, and its popularity goes back centuries.

Romans used to collect jet, sending it to cities like York to be crafted into jewellery. Likewise, Victorians would beachcomb for jet to create finery. Nowadays, you’ll find jet on sale in Whitby’s shops (if you didn’t find any at the beach).

Whitby Museum

You can also see some fantastic examples of Whitby jet at Whitby Museum. Located in the town centre, the museum is one of the best family activities in Whitby.

Fossil enthusiasts can see over 200 fabulous finds – including ammonites, belemnites, fish and plants. There’s also a fascinating collection of dinosaur footprints found along the coast, drawing visitors from far and wide.

---

The Best Fossil Hunting Spots in Whitby and the North Yorkshire Coast

So, if you want to find your own fossils, where should you start?

Whitby

At first thought, you’d head to the beaches. However, fossil hunters may want to head away from the most popular Whitby beaches as these tend to be sandy – and not prime fossil hunting spots.

Instead, head around the harbour to East Cliff. Known as Whitby fossil beach, this area is best explored when the tide is far out. You might find ammonite fossils on the beach or in piles of shingle – especially if there has been a storm or rough seas recently.

This area attracts a lot of fossil collecting pros and is a designated area of special scientific interest.

Saltwick Bay

Many Whitby fossil hunting trips take the walk past Whitby Abbey and down to Saltwick Bay. And for good reason. It’s a fantastic place for fossil hunters, with ammonites, belemnites and Whitby jet all on offer.

Staithes

Further north on the Dinosaur Coast is the port of Staithes, home to Captain Cook. You can join a tour from Whitby to Staithes, hike up the Cleveland Way trail, or catch local transport. There, you’ll have a great time searching the beach for shells and fossils to take back home.

Runswick Bay

South of Staithes is the stunning Runswick Bay. Not only is this one of Yorkshire’s best beaches – it’s also a great place to hunt for fossils. Head to the rockpools to look for shells and ammonites, or search the shingle for hidden relics.

Kettleness Bay

Close by Runswick Bay is Kettleness Bay – a cove that’s extremely popular with fossil hunters. Take care when accessing as it can be steep, loose and slippery.

Once there, you can find an abundance of fossils. A local hunter even found the remains of an Ichthyosaur on Kettleness beach, a huge find within the dinosaur community.

Sandsend

Close to Whitby is Sandsend Ness, another popular fossil hotspot. A great day out could begin with a walk to Sandsend, a couple of hours spent hunting for fossils, followed by a wander back to town for the best fish and chips in Whitby.

Robin Hood’s Bay

South of Whitby lies the stunning Robin Hood’s Bay. It’s better known for its beach than fossils, although some have success finding ammonites among the north side sea debris.

Boggle Hole

The final spot on our list, Boggle Hole, is just south of Robin Hood’s Bay. It’s another site of special scientific interest, known for its range of fossils and excellent ammonites washing up on shore.

---

Our Fossil Hunting Tips

Now you know where to go, here are some tips for your Whitby fossil-finding adventures.

1. Always take a sturdy pair of walking boots or wellington boots.
2. Bring a backpack with a waterproof jacket, water and snacks – this will also help you carry your findings home.
3. Bring tools to record your fossil finds, like a camera, notebook and pen, or even drawing equipment.
4. Search for fossils in loose piles and amongst rocks – it can be dangerous to try and hammer or break rocks yourself.
5. If you don’t succeed first time, keep searching. Fossils can be tricky to find, and the best ones reward patience.
6. Keep away from loose rocks, steep cliffs and slippery areas. It’s also important to be considerate to wildlife living on or around the beaches.
7. Most importantly – make safety your top priority. Check local tide times and only go fossil hunting when the sea is well out. We recommend asking an expert, or even joining Whitby fossil hunting trips to get the most out of your hunting.

Sometimes fossil hunters can return empty-handed – if this happens, keep your chin up. There are plenty of other beaches to try, and you’ve always got Whitby’s fossil shops for your holiday souvenirs.

---

Fancy a fossil hunting trip to the Dinosaur Coast? Let’s get planning. Browse our range of Whitby cottages today and enjoy some fossil hunting in Whitby.