Where adventure meets relaxation
The Yorkshire Coast boasts an impressive coastline stretching for over 100 miles. With rugged cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, and sandy beaches, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of England.
Whitby is undoubtedly one of the most popular towns along the Yorkshire coast. With its imposing abbey ruins overlooking the town, narrow cobbled streets, and quirky shops, it’s a place that will transport you back in time. The town is also famous for its connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, which is celebrated annually with a gothic-inspired festival. Make sure you don’t miss the fish and chips, which Whitby claims to have perfected.
Another must-visit town is Robin Hood’s Bay. The narrow alleyways and tightly packed cottages are a photographer’s dream. The village is also home to a sandy beach that stretches for miles, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a dip in the sea. The town is also famous for its smuggling history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the smugglers’ tunnels and learn more about the town’s past.
Further down the coast, you’ll find the seaside town of Scarborough. Known for its Victorian architecture, sandy beach, and amusement arcades, Scarborough is a popular destination for families. The town’s castle ruins offer stunning views of the bay, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
One of the most striking features of the Yorkshire coast is its cliffs. Bempton Cliffs is one of the best places to see them, with sheer drops of up to 400ft. The cliffs are home to over 200,000 seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and gannets. The RSPB has a reserve at Bempton Cliffs, and there are plenty of walking trails to explore.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed day out, head to Filey. The town’s long, sandy beach is perfect for a walk, and there are plenty of cafes and pubs to grab a bite to eat. The nearby Filey Brigg is a popular spot for rock pooling, and you may even spot some seals.
No trip to the Yorkshire coast would be complete without a visit to Flamborough Head. The headland is home to two lighthouses, both of which are open to the public. The cliffs offer stunning views of the North Sea, and there are plenty of walking trails to explore. The area is also popular with bird watchers, with puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes all calling Flamborough Head home.
Further up the coast, you’ll find the town of Staithes. The village was once home to a thriving fishing industry, and its cobbled streets and cottages have remained largely unchanged over the years. The town’s Captain Cook Museum is dedicated to the famous explorer, who worked as a grocer’s apprentice in the village before setting out on his voyages.
The Yorkshire coast also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The North York Moors National Park is just a short drive away, offering miles of walking and cycling trails. The Cleveland Way is one of the most popular trails, stretching for over 100 miles along the coast and through the national park.
Find out more about the towns and villages of the Yorkshire Coast using the links below: