Attractions and Places To See around Hessle - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hessle include a variety of notable landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Situated along the Humber estuary, Hessle marks the beginning of the Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail and is part of the Trans Pennine Trail. The area offers scenic views and a rich history, providing diverse opportunities for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Hessle
- The most popular attractions is Welton Dale, a forest that is part of the Yorkshire Wolds trail. It is known for its natural beauty and opportunities to see local wildlife.
- Another must-see spot is St Helen’s Church, Welton, a historical site located in a picturesque village. This church has been present in its location since the 11th century.
- Visitors also love All Saints' Church, Brantingham, a religious building situated in a scenic setting. The earliest stonework of this Grade II-listed church dates to the 12th century.
- Hessle is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to expansive nature reserves.
- The attractions around Hessle are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 130 upvotes and 51 photos.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
St Helen’s Church, Welton
Highlight • Historical Site
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Welton Dale
Highlight • Forest
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All Saints' Church, Brantingham
Highlight • Religious Site
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Horkstow Suspension Bridge
Highlight • Historical Site
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Waters' Edge Visitor Centre
Highlight • Rest Area
For a free family day out packed with wildlife and nature don’t miss Waters’ Edge Country Park and Visitor Centre. Explore 110 acres of country park and nature reserve, discover how green you are with our interactive displays or just chill out by the ponds and feed the ducks. Little ones will love our Kids Corner as well as our outdoor children’s play areas.
Waters’ Edge boasts an amazing events calendar with activities such as pottery workshops, craft fairs and lots more. You can download a copy of our events programme by clicking on Leaflets and Brochures at the top right of this page. In the Visitor Centre you will find the gift shop which stocks a variety of locally crafted gifts from jewellery, toys and games, handbags, scarves, books, stationery and wildlife surveillance equipment.
Enjoy quality coffee and food, whilst taking in the spectacular views over the Humber Estuary at Honey Pot Café located within the centre, with outside decked seating area in the summer (open till 3.30pm daily). The Honey Pot Café is a privately owned and managed café within the Visitor Centre.
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Tips from the Community
Bridge closed completely, April 2025. To cross the river you need to go to South Ferriby.
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This is clearly a popular route. I never see anyone at the godforsaken hours that I go out hiking and trailrunning (generally start before sunrise in winter), yet I did see plenty of dogwalkers, hikers and runners out and about in Welton Dale and surrounding bridleways and footpaths. As a result a lot of the tracks are very muddy. Not boggy, you won't lose a shoe, but they can be very slippery in winter.
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All Saints’ Church is 12th Century in origin and was restored by the Victorians in the late 19th Century. It is situated almost at the foot of Brantingham Dale in an open aspect. It is without doubt one of the most picturesque churches in the East Riding of Yorkshire. A fairly detailed history of the church compiled in 1965 and updated in 2014 is available as a pdf at https://d3hgrlq6yacptf.cloudfront.net/5f115a55324ea/content/pages/documents/1573224210.pdf
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All Saints’ Church is 12th Century in origin and was restored by the Victorians in the late 19th Century. It is situated almost at the foot of Brantingham Dale in an open aspect. It is without doubt one of the most picturesque churches in the East Riding of Yorkshire. A fairly detailed history of the church compiled in 1965 and updated in 2014 is available as a pdf at https://d3hgrlq6yacptf.cloudfront.net/5f115a55324ea/content/pages/documents/1573224210.pdf
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Take a hike here in winter, early morning or late afternoon when there is less natural light, as the hundreds of lights around the church wall at ground level are quite spectacular. There has been a church in this location since the reign of William Rufus in the 11th century, as coins from the period were found in the foundations of part of the church during its 19th-century restoration.
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Take a hike here in winter, early morning or late afternoon when there is less natural light, as the hundreds of lights around the church wall at ground level are quite spectacular. There has been a church in this location since the reign of William Rufus in the 11th century, as coins from the period were found in the foundations of part of the church during its 19th-century restoration.
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Picturesque village with ample parking around the vicinity of the pond, which is quite spectacular around Christmas, when backlit by hundreds of lights on the wall around St. Helen's Church.
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The village pond is situated in the centre of the village in front of the church.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Hessle?
Hessle offers several natural features for exploration. The Welton Dale, part of the Yorkshire Wolds trail, is a forest known for its natural beauty and local wildlife. You can also visit the Humber Bridge Country Park, often called "Little Switzerland," a 21-hectare nature reserve with woodlands, wildflowers, and walking routes. The Hessle Foreshore provides tranquil strolls along the Humber estuary, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Are there historical sites or landmarks to visit in Hessle?
Yes, Hessle is rich in history. You can visit St Helen’s Church, Welton, a historical site in a picturesque village with origins dating back to the 11th century. Another significant religious building is All Saints' Church, Brantingham, with stonework from the 12th century. The iconic Humber Bridge, a Grade I listed structure, and the historic Hessle Mill, now a museum, are also notable landmarks.
What walking and hiking opportunities are available near Hessle?
Hessle is a great starting point for walks. It marks the beginning of the Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail and is part of the Trans Pennine Trail. For easy hikes, consider routes like the Humber Bridge Country Park loop or the Humber Bridge loop from Hessle. You can find more details on these and other easy hikes in the Easy hikes around Hessle guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the area?
Absolutely. The Humber Bridge Country Park is excellent for families, offering well-signed walking routes and opportunities to explore nature. A short distance away, Waters' Edge Visitor Centre provides 110 acres of country park and nature reserve with interactive displays and children's play areas. Many of the historical sites, like St Helen’s Church, Welton, are located in picturesque villages suitable for family outings.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Hessle?
The Hessle Foreshore offers stunning views of the Humber Bridge, especially at sunset. The Humber Bridge Country Park also provides elevated perspectives due to its hilly terrain. Additionally, the Horkstow Suspension Bridge is noted for its structure and surrounding views, making it a great spot for photography.
Can I go cycling near Hessle's attractions?
Yes, Hessle is part of the Trans Pennine Trail, offering routes for cycling enthusiasts. You can explore various gravel biking and MTB trails in the vicinity. For specific routes, check out the Gravel biking around Hessle guide or the MTB Trails around Hessle guide, which include routes like the Hornsea Rail Trail and loops around the Humber Bridge.
What is the best time to visit Hessle and its natural features?
The Hessle Foreshore is ideal for tranquil strolls, birdwatching, and photography, particularly at sunset, making it enjoyable year-round, weather permitting. The Humber Bridge Country Park is beautiful in all seasons, with woodlands and wildflowers in spring/summer. For specific events or seasonal activities, it's advisable to check local listings.
Are there any hidden gems or unique places to discover in Hessle?
Beyond the main attractions, Hessle has several listed buildings showcasing its architectural heritage, including Hesslewood and various dwellings on Northgate. The area around the Humber Bridge Country Park also features the "Chalk Walk," a trail where you can learn about the nature, wildlife, and industrial history of the area, offering a unique perspective.
What amenities are available near Hessle's attractions, such as cafes or pubs?
Hessle Square, the heart of the town, features independent shops, cafes, and traditional pubs. Near the Waters' Edge Visitor Centre, you'll find the Honey Pot Café, offering quality coffee and food with views over the Humber Estuary. Some highlights, like St Helen’s Church, Welton, are located in villages with nearby pubs.
Is Hessle Foreshore accessible for visitors?
The Hessle Foreshore is a picturesque shingle/stone "beach" along the Humber estuary. While it's great for tranquil strolls, its natural terrain may present challenges for those with mobility issues. For more accessible paths, the Humber Bridge Country Park offers several well-signed walking routes, some of which are likely to be more suitable.
What makes the Humber Bridge a significant landmark?
The Humber Bridge is an iconic landmark that connects Hessle to Barton-upon-Humber. Opened in 1981, it was once the world's longest single-span suspension bridge and was granted Grade I listed status in 2017, recognizing its architectural and historical importance.
What can I expect at the Humber Bridge Country Park?
The Humber Bridge Country Park, also known as "Little Switzerland," is a 21-hectare nature reserve. It features diverse landscapes including woodlands, wildflowers, a spring-fed pond, and rich grasslands. Visitors can enjoy several well-signed walking routes and observe local wildlife in this former chalk quarry.
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