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Fossiling in Whitby
Some of the information below has been donated by our friends at Whitby Fossils
Even away from the hectic town centre there are several activities which you can enjoy. One of my favourites is searching for fossils. Whitby yields many ammonites, reptiles and shells, also famous for Jet which is similar to Amber. There are several places along the Whitby coast where you can find fossils. Place be careful with young children, as the rock face’s around the coast can become unstable and attention should be paid at all times. Make sure you always go onto the beach at low tide and allow for plently of time to get back to the beach should your venture around the cliff face.
Whitby yields excellent ammonite specimens and dinosaur/reptile remains. The best time to collect is during the winter storms, or scouring conditions.
Access is made via Whitby East Habour. You will need to wait until you can get round as the tide comes very high and must ensure you can return in good time.
Most of the fossils can be found on the foreshore at Whitby, especially after storms or scouring conditions within nodules or loose within the areas of shingle and shale, but fossils are also commonly found in the cliff on the scree slopes either in nodules or loose.
*Very important*
Common sense when collecting at all locations should be taken and knowledge of tide times should always be noted. It is very easy to get cut off at Whitby, the sea always hits the cliff. You should ensure you return before the tide turns. Also be aware of sticky areas at Whitby, on the slippages as it is easy to get stuck especially after rain.
You can also find fossils close by at Port Mulgrave, Kettleness, Runswick Bay, Saltwick Bay, Staithes and Sandsend.
Click here for more information on Whitby Fossils
