Keep Britain Tidy (KBT), an environmental charity, has disclosed the recipients of the esteemed 2023 Blue Flag and Seaside Awards.
Beaches that stood out in the list include Hornsea and Withernsea, under the management of East Riding Council.
These East Yorkshire beaches are all set to raise the Blue Flag this summer, an international distinction that highlights beach quality, management, and visitor amenities. These beaches are part of 78 locations across the country, that satisfied the rigorous criteria relating to water purity, cleanliness, and environmental education efforts.

Four other East Yorkshire and surrounding area beaches are amongst the 128 nationally boasting Seaside Awards; accolades given to England’s top-quality beaches that showcase the breadth and quality of our shores. The award-winning East Yorkshire beaches are:
- Wilsthorpe (south of Bridlington)
- Bridlington North
- South Landing, Flamborough
- Filey
Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, CEO of KBT, commented: “Tourists visiting a beach displaying a Blue Flag or Seaside Award can rest assured that the beach maintains superior cleanliness, safety, and meets high environmental standards, alongside meeting international bathing water quality standards. The Blue Flag is globally acknowledged as the pinnacle award for beaches and marinas, and every contender must uphold and maintain a series of strict environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria.
“We wish to acknowledge and applaud all parties who have tirelessly worked towards the preservation and enhancement of some of our most cherished and frequented beaches. The collaborative efforts of beach managers, volunteers, locals, and businesses all contribute to the achievement of these locations in meeting the exacting standards required.”
The Blue Flag and Seaside Awards, now in their 36th year, are focused on enhancing the quality of England’s coastline and promoting the country’s premier beaches. The Blue Flag program is managed by KBT on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education.