Mappleton Beach is a picturesque sandy beach located in the village of Mappleton, situated in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England. The beach is nestled on the North Sea coastline within the region known as Holderness, which is a few miles south of the seaside resort of Hornsea.
The beach is a mix of sand, rock, and shingle, and is renowned for its two granite rock breakwaters. It is a haven for fossil hunters due to the abundance of fossils that are regularly washed out of the cliff. However, visitors are advised to be aware of the tide times due to the steep clay boulder cliffs.
In 1991, sea defences were constructed to shield the village from severe sea erosion, given that Holderness is among the most rapidly eroding areas in the UK, with the cliffs eroding at a rate of 3.2 yards per year.
Mappleton Beach can be accessed via a long, steep slipway, although it is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility. The car park at the top of the slipway offers free parking for up to 20 cars, but visitors should be cautious of potential cliff top erosion in the car park. Additional parking is available on the street leading up to the beach, and visitors are advised not to park on grass verges due to regular council monitoring.
The beach is equipped with clean toilet facilities that are located in the car park and are open throughout the year. There is also a post office and a shop nearby, but visitors may prefer to bring their own food and drink. The beach is kept clean with plenty of bins available for use.
Despite its popularity, Mappleton Beach is not typically crowded, providing ample space for all visitors. The beach is particularly peaceful towards the evening when the tide retreats, unveiling more of the beach's stunning rocks and pebbles. The beach is also dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for pet owners.
The tranquil atmosphere at Mappleton Beach, coupled with the natural acoustics of the sea, makes it an ideal location for families and all beach activities.
