Introduction

Port Mulgrave is located about 10 minutes drive from Whitby. The location access point is easily accessible, however a long descent down many slippery steps (especially after rain) can prove a challenge to some. However it's definitely worth it as the fossils and scenery are among the best in the country.

Access to the beach is made via a long walk from the cliff-top car park.

Where to look for fossils?

Fossils can be found all year round in most sections of Port Mulgrave. In recent years a number of significant cliff sections have collapsed into the sea providing a good source of fossil bearing nodules on the foreshore.

Left: View south over foreshore at low-tide. Right: A nodule (pictured center) containing a nearly complete ammonite.

When searching on the foreshore keep a close look out for fossil bearing nodules, such as the example pictured above right. These pale-grey rocks often contain complete ammonite specimens, which are remarkably well preserved (see later pictures). The foreshore also contains a number of other fossils including belemnite guards, marine reptile bones and bivalves which are also pictured on this page.

Left: Large collapsed section of southern cliff. Right: Searching among the scree slopes of the southern cliff section.

Some of the best fossils can be found around recent cliff collapses, although unfortunately these are also the most dangerous areas. If you search for fossils here, be sure to take the necessary safety precautions and listen out for falling rocks! During our recent visit we witnesses several significant falls, none of which you would want to be beneath!

Many of the ammonites are separate from the surrounding rock, so simply using a keen eye can yield some great finds. Local collectors recommend sifting through the scree slopes, especially at the base where the larger specimens settle.

As with all coastal locations, a fossil hunting trip is best timed to coincide with a falling or low-tide. For a relatively low one-off cost we recommend the use of Neptune Tides software, which provides future tidal information around the UK. To download a free trial click here. Alternatively a free short range forecast covering the next 7 days is available on the BBC website click here.

What fossils might you find?

Port Mulgrave is without doubt one of the best fossil locations in the country in terms of quality and frequency of finds. By far the most commonly found fossils are ammonites (mostly Dactylioceras tenuicostatum as pictured below), many of which are complete. There are also a wide variety of other shells and occasional reptile and fish remains.

Left: A small but perfectly fossilised ammonite from foreshore. Right: A split nodule reveals the ammonite within.

Left: A small ammonite within nodule. Right: A selection of bivalve shells within foreshore shales.

Left: The impression of a bivalve shell within foreshore pebble. Right: Dozens of small, squashed ammonite shells.

Left: A large belemnite found within scree slopes. Right: A large nodule containing a complete ammonite, also found within scree slopes.

Tools & equipment

It's a good idea to spend some time considering the tools and equipment you're likely to require while fossil hunting at Port Mulgrave. Preparation in advance will help ensure your visit is productive and safe. Below are some of the items you should consider carrying with you. You can purchase a selection of geological tools and equipment online from UKGE.

Hammer: A strong hammer will be required to split prospective rocks. The hammer should be as heavy as can be easily managed without causing strain to the user. For individuals with less physical strength and children (in particular) we recommend a head weight no more than 500g.

Chisel: A chisel is required in conjunction with a hammer for removing fossils from the rocks. In most instances a large chisel should be used for completing the bulk of the work, while a smaller, more precise chisel should be used for finer work. A chisel founded from cold steel is recommended as this metal is especially engineered for hard materials.

Safety glasses: While hammering rocks there's a risk of injury from rock splinters unless the necessary eye protection is worn. Safety glasses ensure any splinters are deflected away from the eyes. Eye protection should also be worn by spectators as splinters can travel several metres from their origin.

Strong bag: When considering the type of bag to use it's worth setting aside one that will only be used for fossil hunting, rocks are usually dusty or muddy and will make a mess of anything they come in contact with. The bag will also need to carry a range of accessories which need to be easily accessible. Among the features recommended include: brightly coloured, a strong holder construction, back support, strong straps, plenty of easily accessible pockets and a rain cover.

Walking boots: A good pair of walking boots will protect you from ankle sprains, provide more grip on slippery surfaces and keep you dry in wet conditions. During your fossil hunt you're likely to encounter a variety of terrains so footwear needs to be designed for a range of conditions.

For more information and examples of tools and equipments recommended for fossil hunting click here or shop online at UKGE.

Protecting your finds

It's important to spend some time considering the best way to protect your finds onsite, in transit, on display and in storage. Prior to your visit, consider the equipment and accessories you're likely to need, as these will differ depending on the type of rock, terrain and prevailing weather conditions.

Left: Fossil wrapped in foam, ready for transport. Right: A small compartment box containing cotton wool is ideal for separating delicate specimens.

When you discover a fossil, examine the surrounding matrix (rock) and consider how best to remove the specimen without breaking it; patience and consideration are key. The aim of extraction is to remove the specimen with some of the matrix attached, as this will provide added protection during transit and future handling; sometimes breaks are unavoidable, but with care you should be able to extract most specimens intact. In the event of breakage, carefully gather all the pieces together, as in most cases repairs can be made at a later time...continued.

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