Cayton Bay – Yorkshire Coast family fossil hunt with Fossiliam

Join palaeontologist Fossiliam (Dr Liam Herringshaw) as we travel back millions of years in time on this family-friendly Yorkshire Coast fossil-finding trip. Our destination – Cayton Bay, just south of Scarborough – has an amazing variety of Jurassic rocks, covered in clays from the last Ice Age, and its beach pebbles and cobbles are packed with fossils. It’s one of the best fossiling spots in the north of England!

This Yorkshire Coast family fossil hunt is suitable for all ages, but especially for would-be palaeontologists aged 6 and over. Under-5s are free, and don’t need a ticket, but all 6-16 year-olds need a ticket, and must be accompanied by a paying adult. Dogs are not allowed, except assistance dogs.

We will meet above the bay on the old Filey Road, at the top of the path leading to The Salty Dog beach cafe (Google Maps location; What3Words location). We will then walk down to Cayton Bay beach, where Fossiliam will explain what to look for. After that, we’ll spend around an hour and a half hunting for fossils.

The walk down into Cayton Bay follows a well-maintained road, with steps down onto the beach at the bottom. Step-free access is unfortunately not available. Once on the beach, we will walk along a mostly sandy, level surface, though the beach can be wet, and rocks can be slippery. Waterproof shoes with good grip and ankle support are recommended, along with warm, weatherproof clothing.

Hammers are not required. The only kit you’ll want is a magnifying glass to inspect things with, and a bucket or backpack to carry your favourite discoveries.