In 2002 Danes Dyke was recognised as a Nature Reserve in recognition of its wildlife and is part of a glorious stretch of coastland on the Yorkshire Coast.

The unique sea and cliff environment has been protested as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and its seabird colonies mark it as a Special Protection Area.

The name Danes Dyke is acquired from the ancient ditch and bank earthwork that runs through the reserve. There are two constructed features, a flat-topped bank, and a west-facing ditch. However, no exact date has been given for its construction.

Comparisons with other post-Roman earthworks of a similar size have been made. In particular, Aberford Dykes has been dated back to the Dark Ages, and Danes Dyke is a scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance.

It is an excellent place for exploration. You can stroll through the woodlands and find surprisingly exotic trees. Trees like the Monkey Puzzle were much loved by the Victorians and are a subtle peek into the past. The area was once the former site of a grand house built in 1873 for Frances Elizabeth Cotterell-Dormer, a lady of the Manor of Flamborough, demolished in 1953. As you follow the tree trail, the ash, elm, lime, beech, and sycamore trees tower above you along the ravine edges, with the smaller hawthorn and elder trees nestling beneath them.

Danes Dyke is a quiet corner of the Yorkshire Coast for you to relax, explore and reflect.