Wildlife Wonders – Spot These Animals Around Yellowtop
Nestled in the heart of the East Riding of Yorkshire countryside, Yellowtop Country Park offers more than just a peaceful lodge escape – it’s a gateway to one of the most vibrant and diverse natural environments in the UK. If you’re a lover of wildlife, photography, or simply tranquil nature walks, this blog will guide you through the best spots to explore, the creatures you might encounter, and how to make the most of your outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re planning a short break or an extended getaway, our walks are in and around the Yorkshire Wolds. Beverley Westwood for all the dog walking lovers is a well-known nature reserve in Yorkshire, making it a top destination for anyone interested in wildlife walks in Yorkshire.
Discover the Work of Wildlife Photographer Robert E Fuller
If you’re inspired by the wildlife around Yellowtop, make time to explore the work of acclaimed local wildlife artist and photographer Robert E Fuller. Based in Thixendale, nestled in the Yorkshire Wolds, Robert’s work captures the hidden lives of animals through a blend of photography, painting, and video. He’s known for his intimate footage of owls, foxes, stoats, and other British species, often filmed right in East Yorkshire’s countryside.
His gallery and studio are open to visitors and offer a chance to see behind the scenes of his wild encounters. It’s a brilliant stop for nature lovers, artists, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to the creatures that call this area home. You can even watch live nest cams of birds and mammals throughout the year.
It’s a celebration of East Riding’s incredible biodiversity, told through the lens of one of its greatest champions.
Wildlife Walks & Local Wonders in East Riding of Yorkshire
Yellowtop Country Park is ideally situated in the heart of the East Riding of Yorkshire, surrounded by rolling countryside, charming market towns, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or connect with nature, you’re in the perfect place to do all three.
Explore Nature in the Yorkshire Wolds
The Yorkshire Wolds are right on your doorstep, offering some of the most scenic walking routes in the county. These chalky hills and quiet valleys are rich in wildlife and offer sweeping views of East Yorkshire’s unspoilt landscape. Many of the walks are circular, family-friendly, and suitable for all fitness levels. Don’t be surprised if you spot a hare darting through the fields or a buzzard circling overhead.
For a taste of authentic countryside life, make time to visit Pocklington—your nearest market town. It’s packed with charm, offering Burnby Hall Gardens, independent shops, a small theatre, and plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can refuel after a long walk. The Pocklington Canal is also a peaceful spot for a flat waterside walk with opportunities to see herons, ducks, and other water-loving wildlife.
Top Wildlife Spots Around Yellowtop
Allerthorpe Common is just a short drive away and one of the best places nearby to spot native wildlife. You might see roe deer grazing at dawn or woodpeckers drumming high in the trees. In summer, look out for butterflies like painted ladies and red admirals along the hedgerows.
North Cliffe Wood, Barmby on the Marsh Wetlands, and the Lower Derwent Valley are also close by. These local nature reserves offer an ever-changing mix of habitats, wetlands, meadows, and ancient woodlands teeming with birds, amphibians, and insects.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a grass snake, fox, or even a barn owl hunting silently at dusk.
For Budding Naturalists and Wildlife Lovers
This part of East Yorkshire is full of natural beauty, and the area is also home to Robert E Fuller, one of the UK’s best-known wildlife artists and photographers. His gallery in Thixendale is well worth a visit for anyone who loves wildlife, art, or both.
You’re also just over an hour from the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, a must-see destination for families. It’s home to over 400 animals, including lions, polar bears, rhinos, and a new dinosaur-themed play area for children.
For younger visitors, William’s Den near North Cave offers natural play zones, climbing areas, and outdoor fun (a great family day out that gets kids connecting with nature).
Local Walks and Day Trips
Looking to stretch your legs? Here are a few walk-worthy spots to try:
- Beverley Westwood: A beautiful open pasture near the racecourse, perfect for dog walking and picnics, just 20 minutes from Yellowtop.
- The Yorkshire Wolds Way: National Trail walks with panoramic countryside views, particularly stunning in the late afternoon light.
- Pocklington Canal Towpath: A flat, peaceful route ideal for spotting kingfishers and dragonflies in summer.
- Holme-on-Spalding-Moor: A quaint village near Yellowtop, home to the Red Lion Inn, a great stop for lunch or a pint after a countryside ramble.
Foodie Favourites Near Yellowtop
East Riding isn’t just good for walking — it’s a haven for food lovers too!.
- The Pipe and Glass at South Dalton is a Michelin Bib Gourmand and AA Rosette-awarded restaurant serving outstanding modern Yorkshire cuisine.
- The Star at Sancton offers elegant yet relaxed dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- Pocklington has a wide variety of cafes, bistros, and pubs to suit every taste—from quick coffee stops to indulgent evening meals.
And if you’re heading a little further out, Beverley has you covered with its buzzing Saturday Market, beautiful Minster, and array of pubs, wine bars, and restaurants.
What to Bring for Wildlife Adventures
- Walking boots or wellies, especially for muddier tracks
- Binoculars for bird spotting
- A camera if you’re into wildlife photography
- Snacks and water, especially if heading out for the day
- A field guide or app to help identify species
Relax in Nature at Yellowtop Country Park
After a day exploring East Yorkshire’s wildlife trails and hidden gems, your private lodge at Yellowtop is the ideal place to unwind. With peaceful fishing lakes, adult-only hot tub options, and cosy interiors, you’ll have all the comforts of home in a truly tranquil setting.
Whether you’re planning a romantic break, a solo recharge, or a family escape, Yellowtop gives you the perfect balance of countryside charm and modern convenience.
Book your lodge today and make Yellowtop Country Park your base for exploring the very best of East Riding.
