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Discover a coastline of rich contrasts on the Yorkshire coast, boasting  Scarborough the first Victorian seaside resort, iconic harbour towns and the outstanding North York Moors .

The dramatic Yorkshire coastline stretches for more than 90 miles from Staithes in the north, to Spurn Point in the south. The North York Moors containing the National Park feature wide open moors, big skies, amazing expanses of purple heather, and a beautiful coastline, the perfect choice for rest and relaxation but equally for getting active.

This unique coastline is home to pretty seaside towns and villages, from vibrant Scarborough , considered to be the world’s first seaside resort, to historic Whitby , Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes. 

On the south of this coastal stretch you’ll encounter the dramatic chalk cliffs of Flamborough and the ocean views at Bempton, home to around half a million seabirds.  

The seascape becomes gradually gentler as you approach Spurn Head which features a long sandy spit which stretches out into the Humber Estuary.

Packed with cultural heritage, a year round events programme and award-winning restaurants, the Yorkshire Coast is a major draw at any time of the year. This coastal stretch features miles of golden sands and a wide choice of places to stay.

Enjoy a stunning 18 mile trip on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway cutting through the heart of the Moors, set off along footpaths and cycleways, hike or ramble along the Cleveland Way , featuring outstanding coastal views.  

Don’t miss Goathland , the Hogwart’s Express destination of Harry Potter fame.

Feeling active? Try surfing, sailing, climbing, horse-riding or trekking, there are countless options. Then dine on locally-sourced Yorkshire produce at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants or unwind at one of the cosy pubs with a local pint.

Find the best things to do on the Yorkshire Coast in one place Click the link above to see our interactive map of the Yorkshire Coast with clickable businesses and attractions.

Getting to Yorkshire

By Train Two trains per hour from central London direct to Hull in under 3 hours or to Scarborough via York (3 hours). Further regional links can be made along the coast. By Coach Several coaches a day direct from central London to Hull in under 7 hours.  Car Hire Available from airports and regionally. Collections from train stations can be arranged. 

Top attractions in the region

The Yorkshire coastline is one of the most breath-taking in the country

Michelin star restaurants or traditional smoked kippers - a wealth of choice

Yorkshire lands a wide range of seafood, but its shellfish and kippers are particularly tasty. Lobster caught by expert local fishermen is regularly on the menu, renowned for its high quality. Kippers are smoked locally in Whitby – if you haven’t tried this most English of delicacies for breakfast you are in for a treat.

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8 Charming Villages And Vibrant Towns To Visit On The Picturesque Yorkshire Coast

The Yorkshire Coast is a popular tourist destination that sees thousands of people flock to enjoy the perfect landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches. And, it’s easy to see why. There is something about it that hits differently about these sea spots. The Yorkshire Coast towns and villages stand against the harsh winds and cloudy skies through the autumn and wire months and fill up with tourists with their ice creams and buckets and spades in the summer months.

It’s the perfect staycation. There is nothing like a British seaside visit . Whether that’s fish & chip s by the sea, a lemon top ice cream or galavanting on the beach with the family.

1. Staithes, North York Moors

There will never be a list that Staithes doesn’t top for us it is perfect. As you head towards it along The Cleveland Way , you’re greeted with this view that has seldom changed over the years. Its cobbled and narrow streets still have the same.

A popular spot with photographers, the North York Moors village with its scattered red roof cottages is near Whitby and is home to a small sandy beach. It is a part of the Dinosaur Coast , which. is a popular spot for fossil hunters.

2. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Home of Dracula, Whitby is probably Yorkshire’s most famous and popular seaside town. Head up the 199 steps and visit Whitby Abbey, before heading for some fish & chips. You’re never short of the  best fish and chips  you’ll ever have in this beautiful coastal town.

There is more to Whitby, located along the Yorkshire Coast, than meets the eye. From Its quirky narrow streets to its busy harbour with its views of Whitby Abbey. There are plenty of pubs and bars and of course, restaurants to enjoy when you visit.

3. Robin Hood’s Bay, North York Moors – Best Yorkshire Coast towns and villages

This old fishing village, which is ranked as one of the  prettiest in the UK , is another beautiful place where you can enjoy a nice walk along the beach before heading over to enjoy the cafes and pubs. Walking around the narrow streets and checking out the idyllic cottages is great fun.

It’s renowned for its fossil hunting along the beach, and it is home to some fantastic cafes, pubs and restaurants once you’ve had a jaunt up and down the hills a few times. Our favourite has to be The Laurel Inn, which is full of ye olde character and serves some classic Yorkshire ales. You half expect a fisherman to stumble in after a day at sea looking for a well-earned pint.

4. Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s  oldest seaside town  still has that old charm that drew Victorian tourists back in the day. Play on the arcades and walk along with the front taking in the cliff views for a perfect day out. At Christmas time, you can enjoy some of the events they have going on, so it’s grand all year round.

It has some fantastic beaches that help make it one of the best summer locations across the country and also has the fantastic Asian-inspired Peasholme Park, which has plenty of things to do for families. You’ll never go board from a trip to Scarbrough that’s for sure.

Read More: 15 Of The Best Beaches In Yorkshire To Visit This Summer

5. Sandsend, North York Moors

Sandsend is a quaint seaside village between Whitby and Scarborough. It has beautiful views of Whitby Abbey and a beautiful stretch of beach with a stream running through it to the sea. The village has fantastic restaurants, a village shop and a couple of pubs to enjoy a few ales.

We highly recommend the fish tacos from The Fish Cottage with views of the coast in the outdoor seating area. Sandsend is a lot less busy compared to its busier counterparts but has a massive street of beach to enjoy. It’s also part of the Cleveland Way making for some fantastic walks.

6. Runswick Bay, North York Moors Best Yorkshire Coast towns and villages

Further up the coast from Whitby, the former fishing village is hidden in a sheltered cove and offers a beautiful sandy beach. It’s great for the kids as they can hunt through the rock pools and go fossil hunting. If you’re out for a brisk walk, it’s along the Cleveland Way, which offers fantastic views.

The beautiful sandy beach is just a few miles north of Whitby and has a wonderful thatched house on the Yorkshire Coast, which is the only one remaining on the coast. The scenes is very dramatic and takes you back in time.

7. Flamborough, East Yorkshire

One of East Yorkshire’s hidden gems, North Landing a wonderful beach spot, Flamborough Head and Thornwick Bay are just a stone’s throw from the village and are a perfect convex that is brilliant to visit If you enjoy bird watching, head over to Bempton Cliffs, one of the largest and most accessible mainland nesting colony of the gannet; plus puffins, razorbills, guillemots and other seabirds. and see the thousands of birds that nest in the cliffside.

Flamborough is located near to the market town of Driffield, and the popular beach spot Bridlington where you can enjoy cruises on the Yorkshire Belle to get a closer look at some of these amazing birds.

8. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North York Moors – Best Yorkshire Coast Towns And Villages

Yorkshire’s answer to Brighton, Saltburn-by-the-Sea is a quirky seaside town that’s up and coming. Its pier and water-balanced cliff lift that’s the oldest of its kind is the focal points of the town. And, it’s a lovely spot for fish & chips and arcades down at the bottom.

Its highest street up top is getting more and more independent restaurants bars and craft ales spots perfect for those looking for a weekend away – definitely one of our favourite spots on the coast that’s for sure.

Read More: 7 Yorkshire Coast Hidden Gems For You To Explore This Summer

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Nathan Ellis

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Visit the North York Moors

Purple moors and rolling hills.

The North York Moors and further south the lovely Yorkshire Wolds are the scenic background to the coastline with heather moors, rolling hills, picturesque country towns and historic houses. The North York Moors National Park offers great scenic variety - open moorland and secluded dales extending to the rugged coast. Explore the Park by foot, bicycle, park bus, or restored railway.

A National Park for 50 years, a sense of space and solitude marks the North York Moors. Ridge upon ridge of purple heather moorland extends into the distance. The deep secret valleys which cut the plateau come almost as a surprise and the warmth of their red-roofed villages contrasts with the upland solitude. In spring, valleys such as Farndale come alive with daffodils.

Travel 18 miles through the North York Moors on the steam railway from Grosmont to Pickering, with a station at Goathland, the famous Aidensfield of the Heartbeat TV series and now a Harry Potter film location. More modern are the listening posts at Fylingdales Moor, replacing the famous 'golf balls' of Cold War fame.

There are over 2,300km of paths and tracks on the North York Moors making it a walker's and cyclist's paradise. There are short strolls and half day walks and the superb Cleveland Way National Trail which can be explored in circular sections. Wildlife enthusiasts can hear the call of upland birds in the moorland peace. Whatever the season the Moors are a place to get away from it all and experience its spectacular countryside.

Exploring is assisted by the Moorsbus, a National Park organised service which travels to all corners of the Park.

Visit the honey-coloured villages of the Moors, and perhaps have a meal at one of the traditional country pubs. Or for more wooded country visit Dalby Forest, west of Scarborough, and walk forest trails through beautiful woodland.

Within the North York Moors National Park are the high cliffs and rocky shores of the North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast with fishing villages, sandy beaches, and a coastline rich in natural flora and fauna. See the Visit Yorkshire Coast guide for more information.

At the south of the Park are Helmsley in its attractive setting and Pickering with its ancient castle keep.

Nearby the traditional country towns of Hambledon and Ryedale bustle with local life. They include Thirsk in "Herriot Country", Northallerton in its broad green vale and Malton, the gateway to Ryedale.

What a prickle…

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Things to do on the Yorkshire Coast

You will never be stuck for things to do on the Yorkshire Coast. With 45 miles of sweeping coastline offering a wide range of attractions and outdoor activities, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Our stunning coastal views, surrounded by beautiful countryside, make for the perfect location to find new adventures or simply escape and relax. 

Are you looking to indulge a little during your stay? We have just what you need with sumptuous seafood on offer in stunning places to eat, luxurious spas and, of course, a bit of retail therapy with a wide selection of shops up and down the coast.

Check out some of the exciting things to do on the Yorkshire Coast and start planning your trip today.

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The North Yorkshire Coast – 9 perfect seaside places to visit

The North Yorkshire Coast is a famous stretch of coast along the east coast of England. The North York Moors National Park runs 26 miles up the fabulous Yorkshire coastline and it includes historic Yorkshire villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay, Runswick Bay, the city of York and Staithes. The Yorkshire Coastline makes for the perfect holiday or vacation when visiting England or if you are looking for the perfect staycation.

Encompassing some beautiful coastal towns in Yorkshire the North Yorkshire Coast also includes sweeping valleys, rugged coastlines, the Cleveland Way, superb beaches the North York Moors and of course the Yorkshire Dales.

The North Yorkshire Coast and the Cleveland heritage coast have something to offer all tastes; whether you want peace and solitude, fabulous market towns and foodie destinations walk along the miles of golden sandy beaches, have invigorating adventures or merely the chance to relax and explore the many charming Yorkshire Coast Towns.

The Yorkshire Coast includes some amazing towns and cities along the way from Scarborough to the famous Whitby where it is said Bram Stoker was inspired to write Dracula.

The Yorkshire coast is home to three of thirty-two nationally designated Heritage Coasts in England and Wales. The Heritage Coasts are so designated for their exceptional scenic quality.

The Heritage Coasts are designated by  Natural England  to protect the coastline, its environment and its heritage. Part of the designation is the provision of a coastal footpath along the length of the Heritage Coast. The northernmost Heritage Coast has a footpath alongside its entire length.

One of my favourite ways to travel Yorkshire is to take the North Yorkshire Moors Railway it doesn’t run along the coast but it is a fabulous way to see some incredible landscapes and smaller Yorkshire villages and beauty spots.

• Yorkshire beaches map

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The North Bay

Scarborough castle.

• Anne Bronte's Grave

Saltburn Cliff Tramway

Whitby abbey, runswick bay, boggle hole, the old coastguard station.

• Robin Hood's Bay Museum

Bridlington Harbour and Old Town

Bridlington surfing, bridlington seafood, bempton cliffs, the bayle gate & church of st. mary, bridlington spa, captain cook & staithes heritage centre.

• Yorkshire's Dinosaur Coast

Flamborough Head

Flamborough head lighthouses, the chalk tower, best yorkshire seaside towns, scarborough.

The stories have it that Scarborough was founded around 966Ad by a Viking raider. There is sadly no architectural evidence to support this. In the 4th century, there was a Roman signal station on the headland and there are lots of archaeological finds that indicate there were stone age and bronze age settlements.  Scarborough is one of the largest and most popular cities for a beach holiday on the Yorkshire Coast.

Scarborough is the largest resort on the Yorkshire coast and it sits on a high rocky point that faces east into the North Sea. On top of the point are the ruins of Scarborough Castle and the point divides the seafront into its two bays.

South Bay in Scarborough was the original settlement of the area and today forms the old town. This is the main tourist area with lovely beaches tons of penny arcades and children’s amusement.

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to have a meal of some great fish and chips and lots to entertain families. Unlike Blackpool, the promenade has undergone major improvements and is very pedestrian-friendly.

North Bay is a more peaceful area of Scarborough. This is where you will find   Peasholm Park  which strangely enough is a Japanese theme park. The park includes a boating lake and putting green a fabulous bandstand where open-air concerts take place and beautiful gardens and trails to walk.

Scarborough Castle is a major tourist attraction under the care of English Heritage on this section of the Yorkshire Coast. The remains consist of a late twelfth-century castle with thirteenth and fourteenth-century modifications. Also visible are the foundations of a Roman watchtower.

The cost to visit the castle is £6.90. There is a little coffee shop on the grounds and there are panels that guide you through the history of the site.

There is no parking on-site, but there is a Park and Ride or the pay-and-display Marine Drive car park. Parking is only available for disabled visitors, which must be pre-booked. 

Anne Bronte’s Grave

While you are up at the castle take a moment to visit Anne Bronte’s gravesite and the beautiful little St. Mary’s church with an amazing view of the harbour area and Yorkshire Coast.

Anne Bronte died in Scarborough on 28th May 1849 aged 29 yrs. She is buried in St Mary’s Church graveyard in Scarborough. Anne loved Scarborough and used it as a setting for her novels – Agnes Grey and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, she often remarked that she wanted to open a school in Scarborough.

Another traditional favourite, Filey is an ideal place to unwind and have some seaside fun. With five miles of unspoilt sandy beach, it is a family-friendly destination and doesn’t get too crowded, even in the height of summer. Slightly off the beaten track, it is a lovely spot for a great day out at the coast without the volume of tourists who visit the main resorts.

A fishing village turned tourist resort, Filey is sitting on a cinematic five-mile sandy bay which is framed by the headlands of Flamborough Head and Filey Brigg. There is an old-fashioned promenade and some lovely beach chalets that can be rented by the day. There are also pony rides and a cafe/restaurant on the beach.

For the kids look for Cobble Landing where the fishing boats are towed onto the beach with a tractor. There are also great rock pools at Filey Brigg for those budding oceanologists. At the edge of the beach, you will spot The Crescent a gorgeous row of Victorian townhouses with formal gardens out front.

Saltburn by the Sea

Saltburn is a seaside resort north of Whitby back in its Victorian heyday and was once an important Victorian bathing resort. The old Pier used to be 1500 feet in length but is now about half that is the pier; once 1,500ft in length, but following many years of neglect and a few disasters, the pier stands at less than half this length. This was the first iron pier built on the North East Coast and it is the most northerly surviving pier on British soil.

Standing on the pier facing land you can’t miss Saltburn’s cliff tramway and it is England’s oldest water-balanced funicular. This was constructed to provide an easy route up and down the 120ft cliff for the delicate Victorian ladies allowing them to be carried gently down the cliff to their bathing machines.

Other Victorian highlights include the formal Italian Gardens which are served by a miniature railway. One of the highlights of a visit to Saltburn is the Saltburn Food Festival held during the summer months. It features over 100 stalls from independent food producers. There are shows and demonstrations and it is a perfect place to graze the food samples.

Saltburn is home to one of the best surf spots along this stretch of the North Sea coast. Facing directly north it picks up more swell than neighbouring spots and is a high spot for surfing tourism.

Home to the famous haunted Whitby Abbey , Whitby itself is a seaside town well-loved by locals and visitors alike.

Home to the earliest English poet Cædmon  learned to compose after a dream he had. Caedmon was a zealous monk and over time became a great inspirational Christian poet. 

Whitby became a settlement in 665 when the Christian king of Northumbria, Oswy founded the abbey under the abbess Hilda. The name Whitby comes from the Old Norse which means “white settlement”. Whitby was a key port and centre for the whaling industry and from this grew a great shipbuilding centre.

Due to the areas, great mining Whitby also became renowned for the manufacture of Whitby Jet which was used by Queen Victoria as mourning jewellery.  The black mineral jet was found in the cliffs and on the moors and has been used since the Bronze Age to make beads. It was mined by the Romans and in Victorian times it was brought into the town to be made into decorative items.

The monastery was destroyed between 867 and 870 in a series of raids by Vikings from Denmark under their leaders  Ingwar  and  Ubba . You may recall from the HBO series Vikings one known as Ube which could have been the Ubba that destroyed the monastery.

Whitby Abbey haunted Bram Stoker and it became the inspiration for his legendary Dracula book. There are 199 steps down to Whitby itself from the Abbey and you can either take the steps or drive up to the Abbey. This is the famous Abbey of course founded by St. Hilda. The Abbey contains 2000 years’ worth of history and is a fascinating, haunted place.

Whitby Abbey has been a king’s burial place, the setting for a historic meeting between Celtic and Roman clerics, and the home of saints.

There is a visitors centre at Whitby Abbey and a small cafe where you can have a grand cup of tea after the winds of the place howl through you.

This pretty fishing village enjoys excellent views of Whitby Abbey, and a fine stretch of beach divided by a stream running into the sea. It is popular with families, surfers and fossil hunters! The village offers award-winning restaurants, cafes, two pubs plus a well-stocked village shop.

Just a few miles north of Whitby, Runswick Bay was once a fishing village and boasts a beautiful and sheltered sandy beach. Voted Beach of the year in 2020 it is a very popular village for beach holidays.

The original fishing village was almost destroyed by a landslide in 1682. Luckily there were no fatalities as the villagers were alerted by two funeral attendees. The village was then rebuilt slightly further to the south.

It is a very pretty spot with scenic paths heading both North and South on the  Cleveland Way , including spectacular views over Kettleness. It’s a popular destination with families, as children can enjoy rock pooling, building sandcastles, coastal walks and fossil hunting. Don’t forget your bucket and spade!

Robin Hood’s Bay 

Robin Hood’s Bay is what you picture when you think of British seaside villages. There’s a lovely beach where you can play in rock pools, dig for crabs and have a great ice cream while wandering the village.

Robin Hood’s Bay is a walk down the hill from the top. Parking is in several lots as cars are not allowed in the village. It’s a great walk down but a bit of a hike up. There is a wide range of pubs, restaurants and cafes to grab a cup of tea and a great crab salad sandwich.

Found along the ‘Cleveland Way’, which was a notorious smugglers’ haunt. Boggle Hole is a unique curved-out hallow that has been worn away by the sea and its name has derived from boggle – or goblin – which legend says are to haunt the slopes of the cave.

Sitting on the edge of the sea in Robin Hood’s Bay is this National Trust-owned property, The Old Coastguard Station. Here, you will find a collection of models and colourful displays, allowing you to learn about life by the sea including wildlife and geology.

At the station, you can discover more about the North Yorkshire Coast so special, from its distinctive geology and the impact of the elements on local wildlife and the secret history of smuggling.

Visitors can have fun making waves, generating wind power and finding out more about the natural processes happening every day at Robin Hood’s Bay. Come face to face with fascinating creatures in a rockpool tank, spot shore crabs, hermit crabs, blennies, winkles, sea anemones and prawns – all discovered in the rock pools just outside the centre.

Robin Hood’s Bay Museum

Whilst visiting Robin Hood’s Bay be sure to spend a moment within this museum, boasting a collection of artefacts and displays of local interest. This free-of-charge attraction includes information on the local shipwrecks and rescues, as well as charming photographs of the Bay.

Lots of places to stay with BnB’s aplenty in the old fishing village. The streets and walkways are narrow and twisty with lots of cobblestones and there is much history here. You can take a Ghost Walk through the village, visit the Old Coastguard station or simply relax on the beach.

The National Trust’s visitor centre displays exhibits of shipping, local history and of the smuggling trade that was a highlight of Robin Hood’s heydays.

Phantom Thread is a film with Daniel Day-Lewis (his final one) that was filmed at the Robin Hood’s Bay hotel at the top of the Village.

 Dracula by Bram Stoker has several scenes set in Robin Hood’s Bay. Abraham visited the area recreating the steep steps and the sightings of the red eyes, the ship that ran aground with the immense dog.

Bridlington

Glorious clean beaches, history galore, sporting fun, independent shops, great entertainment and amazing nature, in Bridlington there is something for everyone, whatever the weather.

Bridlington’s  pre-roman harbour  and characterful Old Town are must-sees for any history buff, being home to the beautiful Augustinian Priory,  Bayle Museum  and  Harbour Heritage Museum .

It also turns out that it was in Bridlington that surfing was first introduced to Britain . In the 1800s Hawaiian royalty was visiting the UK and they took a trip to the beaches of Bridlington where they pulled out their surfboard and enjoyed the waves of the chilly North Sea. A letter was found in Hawaii from the young Prince and his brother who were both studying in England at the time.

The prince wrote that he and his brother Prince David Kahalepouli Kawananakoa Piikoi were allowed by their tutor, believed to be John Wrightson, to have a holiday in Bridlington as a reward for good work in their studies in schools and colleges around Britain – they’d been in England furthering their education for almost a year.

For nature lovers, going on a seashore safari, a boat trip around the bay or bird watching at  Bempton Cliffs  are all experiences not to be missed.

The Church of St Mary was built on the site of an Augustinian Priory. The Church was once a fortified building and the Bayle Gate which is nearby is the only thing that remains of that fortification.

  Bridlington Spa  was originally opened in 1896 and quickly became a leading resort for the Victorians in England. It was in its heyday Bridlington was a leading entertainment resort. It continued to be an entertainment venue but was getting more and more rundown until the early 2000s when money was finally found to refurbish the place. It is now a beautiful venue for live music, entertainment and corporate workshops.

These days Bridlington has unfortunately been voted a less attractive place to visit than Blackpool which I simply don’t agree with.

Yes, parts of Bridlington were tacky and old-fashioned but it had a beautiful beach like Blackpool and the seafood available was simply to die for. It was nowhere near as bad as Blackpool.

Staithes is a gorgeous fishing village with a pretty harbour when the tide is in. It is a great place for fossil hunters as well. Located 10 miles from Whitby, Staithes was once one of the busiest fishing ports on the North East Coast. It was also the home of Captain James Cook .

The Staithes Group is an English painting group that made the village their home in the late 19th century. There were 30 artists in the group and with a nod to them, Staithes hosts an Arts Festival in the autumn.

One of the places to visit in Staithes is  Captain Cook & Staithes Heritage Centre . This is a recreation of the shop where Cook worked and includes over 200 of his books, letters, medals and more.

Yorkshire’s Dinosaur Coast

Staithes sit on what is known as the ‘Dinosaur Coast’, making it a favourite with fossil hunters, palaeontologists and dinosaur fans. You can explore on your own or take an organized tour .

Staithes is a lovely place for a visit Anna has written a lovely article called The Sleepy Coastal Village of Staithes. Take a moment and enjoy this little idyllic village she writes about.

There is much more to see on the Yorkshire Coast and the area holds many great hikes and walks from the Yorkshire Downs. Two of these world-renowned places are The Cleveland Way and Flamborough Head.

The Cleveland Way

The Cleveland Way is a 109-mile walk from Helmsley to Filey. With views of dramatic rugged coastlines to fishing villages like Staithes, this hiking route is pretty spectacular.

Starting from Helmsley the route could take around 9 days to walk the full horseshoe trail. Places to see along the way include Helmsley Castle , Rievaulx Abbey , Mount Grace Priory, Gisborough Priory, Whitby Abbey and Scarborough Castle to name just a few special sites.

Flamborough

The name Flamborough is believed to come from a word meaning “the place of the flame”. Other sources claim that it derives from “Flaneberg”, possibly from the Saxon “Flaen” meaning a dart, which the shape of the headland resembles.

Flamborough Head is a series of chalk cliffs standing over 400 feet high. The cliffs are home to one of the largest sites of nesting sea birds in England, a rare colony of gannets lives and nests here. The clifftop walk is a bird spotter’s paradise, and visitors to the headland include oystercatchers, gulls, eider ducks, and cormorants.  

As well as its distinctive white cliffs, there are coves, sea caves and stacks along the coastline.

There are two lighthouses at Flamborough Head. The old one is set a short distance back from the sea which seems a lot safer to me given the cliff erosion. The new one is built on the edge of the cliff itself.

The chalk tower is the only surviving light tower in England. It is believed to date from the 17th century and a brushwood fire would have been burnt on the top to light the way. No one knows however if this lighthouse was ever lit. The structure has several windows and a fireplace so it may have been lived in at some time.  

The North Yorkshire Coast is a picturesque destination that boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes in England. From the rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to the charming seaside towns and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, this region has it all. So why not plan your next trip to North Yorkshire Coast and discover its many wonders for yourself? With so much to see and do, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

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Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

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The North Yorkshire coast is the southernmost stretch of a cliff-edged shore that stretches almost unbroken to the Scottish border. Scarborough is the biggest resort, with a full set of attractions and a terrific beach. Cute Robin Hood’s Bay is the most popular of the coastal villages, with fishing and smuggling traditions, while bluff Staithes – a fishing harbour on the far edge of North Yorkshire – has yet to tip over into a full-blown tourist trap. Whitby , between the two, is the best stopover, with its fine sands, good facilities, abbey ruins, Georgian buildings and maritime heritage – more than any other local place Whitby celebrates Captain Cook as one of its own. Two of the best sections of the Cleveland Way start from Whitby: southeast to Robin Hood’s Bay (six miles) and northwest to Staithes (eleven miles), both along thrilling high-cliff paths.

Robin Hood’s Bay

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Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1350 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

5 days  / from 638 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

The most heavily visited spot on this stretch of coast, ROBIN HOOD’S BAY is made up of gorgeous narrow streets and pink-tiled cottages toppling down the cliff-edge site, evoking the romance of a time when this was both a hard-bitten fishing community and smugglers’ den par excellence. From the upper village, lined with Victorian villas, now mostly B&Bs, it’s a very steep walk down the hill to the harbour. The Old Coastguard Station has been turned into a visitor centre with displays relating to the area’s geology and sealife. When the tide is out, the massive rock beds below are exposed, split by a geological fault line and studded with fossil remains. There’s an easy circular walk (2.5 miles) to Boggle Hole and its youth hostel, a mile south, returning inland via the path along the old Scarborough–Whitby railway line.

The oldest resort in the country, SCARBOROUGH first attracted early seventeenth-century visitors to its newly discovered mineral springs. To the Victorians it was “the Queen of the Watering Places”, but Scarborough saw its biggest transformation after World War II, when it became a holiday haven for workers from the industrial heartlands. All the traditional ingredients of a beach resort are still here in force, from superb, clean sands and kitsch amusement arcades to the more refined pleasures of its tight-knit old-town streets and a genteel round of quiet parks and gardens. In addition to the sights detailed here, make sure to drop into the Church of St Mary (1180), below the castle on Castle Road, whose graveyard contains the tomb of Anne Brontë, who died here in 1849.

If there’s one essential stop on the North Yorkshire coast it’s WHITBY , with its historical associations, atmospheric ruins, fishing harbour, lively music scene and intrinsic charm. The seventh-century cliff-top abbey here made Whitby one of the key foundations of the early Christian period, and a centre of great learning. Below, on the harbour banks of the River Esk, for a thousand years the local herring boats landed their catch until the great whaling boom of the eighteenth century transformed the fortunes of the town. Melville’s Moby Dick makes much of Whitby whalers such as William Scoresby, and James Cook took his first seafaring steps from the town in 1746, on his way to becoming a national hero. All four of Captain Cook’s ships of discovery – the Endeavour , Resolution , Adventure and Discovery – were built in this town.

Walking around Whitby is one of its great pleasures. Divided by the River Esk, the town splits into two halves joined by a swing bridge: the cobbled old town to the east, and the newer (mostly eighteenth- and nineteenth-century) town across the bridge, generally known as West Cliff . Church Street is the old town’s main thoroughfare, barely changed in aspect since the eighteenth century, though now lined with tearooms and gift shops. Parallel Sandgate has more of the same, the two streets meeting at the small marketplace where souvenirs and trinkets are sold, and which hosts a farmer’s market every Thursday.

The story of Dracula is well known, but it’s the exact attention to the geographical detail of Whitby – little changed since Bram Stoker first wrote the words – which has proved a huge attraction to visitors. Using first-hand observation of a town he knew well – he stayed at a house on the West Cliff, now marked by a plaque – Stoker built a story which mixed real locations, legend and historical fact: the grounding of Count Dracula’s ship on Tate Hill Sands was based on an actual event reported in the local papers.

It’s hardly surprising that the town has cashed in on its Dracula Trail . The various sites – Tate Hill Sands, the abbey, church and steps, the graveyard, Stoker’s house – can all be visited, while down on the harbourside the Dracula Experience attempts to pull in punters to its rather lame horror-show antics. Keen interest has also been sparked amongst the Goth fraternity, who now come to town en masse a couple of times a year (in late spring and around Halloween) for a vampire’s ball, concerts and readings.

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Away With Maja

21 of the best places to visit in the north york moors.

UPDATED FEBRUARY 2021! The North York Moors National Park is one of my favorite places in Yorkshire, in England, and in fact in all of the UK. It’s just under an hour’s drive from where I live in York , and somewhere that I’ve spent so many days and weekends exploring. There are some fantastic hikes in the area , too! The National Park is big though, and there’s a lot to see! What should you see when visiting the North York Moors and where should you go? Here are 21 of the BEST places to visit in the North York Moors!

1) Roseberry Topping

They don’t call Roseberry Topping “the Yorkshire Matterhorn” for nothing! This is the highest point in the North York Moors, at 320 meters. You’ve got lots of options for how to get to the top, but the most straightforward is from the parking right below on the A173. The lot can fill up on the weekend, and there is a charge for parking. The walk is short (just under 2 hours up and down) and it’s easy to follow. The views of the surrounding area are stunning though, and well worth the climb! You can also walk out along Newton Moor to the Captain Cook Monument.

Read More: Hiking Roseberry Topping and Newton Moor

2) Sutton Bank and Kilburn White Horse

One of the main National Park Centers is at Sutton Bank, with fantastic views over the moors and beyond. The sunset views are meant to be amazing! There is an easy walk down to see one of the big attractions in this area: the Kilburn White Horse. The Kilburn White Horse was made from limestone. It was created in 1857 and can be seen from several different views across Yorkshire. The loop walk from Sutton Bank is just under 2 miles, and took me about an hour and a half. There is a huge parking lot at Sutton Bank, but there is a charge (£2.50 for 2 hours, £4 for all-day parking). The lot at the bottom of the White Horse is free! Some of the best views of Kilburn White Horse are from the village of Kilburn itself, just a few minutes drive away.

Read More: The Best Hikes in the North York Moors

3) Mount Grace Priory

This priory is the best-preserved Carthusian Priory in England, and definitely one place you must visit in the North York Moors. There is a lot more to explore here than you might think! Mount Grace House has a few different exhibits on the history of the priory, as well as the people who lived in the house. The main highlight of the property is seeing a recreation of a Carthusian monks’ cell—complete with their own personal garden! There are lots of ruins to see and various remaining parts of the priory to explore. Don’t miss the gardens down by the pond! Mount Grace Priory is owned by National Trust, but operated by English Heritage.

4) Osmotherley

You can’t miss Osmotherley on a trip to the North York Moors. This is another stunning village, with a few shops, pubs, hotels/B&Bs, two churches, and a gorgeous village green with a unique stone table on the market cross. It’s on the Cleveland Way, and there are some great walks from the village. My favorite part was seeing Osmotherley’s village shop with all the Christmas decorations up—how festive and quaint does it look?!

5) Cod Beck Reservoir

Just outside of Osmotherley is Cod Beck Reservoir. This is a really popular place for walks, as you can do a short loop around the reservoir which is about 1.5 miles. Parking can be a huge issue here, as there’s just one car park and it fills up really fast. I recommend walking from Osmotherley, which is about 1 mile. Even better, combine both with a walk from Osmotherley along the Cleveland Way to Sheepwash for great views!

6) Rievaulx Abbey

Yorkshire is home to some of the best abbey ruins in the entire country. And one of the absolute best ruined abbeys is located inside the North York Moors itself! Rievaulx Abbey used to be one of the main ecclesiastical centers in the north, and was unfortunately damaged during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII. Rievaulx Abbey today is run by English Heritage. There’s a charge for parking, but if you visit the abbey (and buy a ticket) they refund the parking costs.

Read More: Visiting Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley in North Yorkshire

7) Helmsley

Only 3 miles away from Rievaulx Abbey is Helmsley, a charming little market town. Dominated by the ruins of Helmsley Castle (also run by English Heritage), this village perfectly complements a visit to Rievaulx Abbey. I’d definitely suggest visiting both in one day! The castle grounds and ruins are great for exploring, and if you’re looking for something more grand you can visit Duncombe Park. Make sure to pop by Hunters of Helmsley, which was voted one of the best village shops in the country!

8) Byland Abbey

Byland Abbey is one of the smaller abbey ruins to visit in the North York Moors. But it’s still definitely worth a visit! A former Cistercian monastery, it was also closed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1538. One of the abbey’s best features are the beautiful colored medieval floor tiles, in what would have been the remains of the church. The site is run by English Heritage, but there’s free entry. While you’re in the area, make sure to pop by the charming village of Coxwold! Just a few streets long, Coxwold has some gorgeous village architecture, as well as a really nice pub in the Fauconberg Arms.

9) Farndale

Farndale is a quiet area of the North York Moors, but comes alive in the springtime when the flowers bloom. The walk along the River Dove is one of the best places to see daffodils bloom in Yorkshire, and you can extend it by taking the alternate route back along the ridge. Make sure you visit the church in Church Houses—it’s full of daffodils in the spring. Up to 40,000 people visit Farndale during the daffodil season, so be prepared for the riverside walk to be fairly busy especially on weekends!

Read More: Farndale Daffodils: An Easy Spring Walk in the North York Moors

10) Chop Gate and the Wainstones

The Wainstones are the largest sandstone crags in the North York Moors National Park. There is a fantastic hike from the tiny village of Chop Gate that takes you in a loop out to the Wainstones, and back along Urra Moor (which is the highest part of the North York Moors). The views from the Wainstones are stunning, and it’s really popular with climbers!

Read More: North York Moors Hikes: Chop Gate to the Wainstones

11) Hutton-le-Hole

Hutton-le-Hole is another gorgeous little village in the Moors. It’s small, with a museum, a parish church, a babbling brook running through the village green, and an excellent pub. I’d highly recommend the the Crown for food or drinks or both—if you eat there, you also get free parking in the lot behind the pub! This is a great place to stop for an hour or two. There’s a nice 4-mile loop to Lastingham and back, too.

12) Rosedale and Rosedale Abbey

The area of Rosedale in the North York Moors is beautiful. Rosedale Abbey is a charming, beautiful village, with a café and a village shop. Funnily enough, there was never an actual abbey in Rosedale Abbey, but there was a Cistercian priory! I definitely recommend hiking out to see some of the industrial heritage around Rosedale. You can see the ironstone mines, kilns, and cottages, from the area’s mining heyday between the 1850s and the 1920s. Part of the hike follows the old mining railway line, and the views are stunning. Don’t miss this part of the North York Moors!

Read More: Hiking Around Rosedale in the North York Moors

Right before you turn to take the Chimney Bank road down to Rosedale Abbey, you can pull over and go explore the kilns at Rosedale Bank Top—leftover from the days when ironstone mining was prominent in the area. There are some pretty phenomenal views from the top! This isn’t far from Hutton-le-Hole.

13) Castleton Rigg

Castleton Rigg, along the road from Hutton-le-Hole to Castleton (Stepin Turn/Blakely Road), is a beautiful area in the heart of the North York Moors. This is definitely one of the best roads to drive in the Moors, and home to the Lion Inn pub. The Seated Man of Castleton, a giant statue of a man on the moors, used to be here, but unfortunately it was moved the other year to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

14) Danby and Danby Beacon

The village of Danby is home to one of the two North York Moors National Park Centers (the other is at Sutton Bank), quaint houses, and an ivy-covered pub that looks spectacular in the fall. But it’s really the views from Danby Beacon that are worth the visit here. You can see for miles once you’re at the top of Beacon Hill—while you can drive to Danby Beacon, it’s an easy walk from Danby and the park center. There was even an RAF radar station at Danby Beacon during World War II!

15) Lealholm

The North York Moors is full of charming villages, and Lealholm is another one to put on your list. There’s a pub, a few cafes and shops, and free parking—although I’d also recommend hiking here from Danby and Danby Beacon. As a bonus, Lealholm also has a picture-perfect set of stepping stones across the River Esk. I stayed at a really cozy Airbnb not far from Lealholm—and it really was like getting away from everything. We went out on short walks and drove around the Moors during the day, and then had a pub meal before going back and having a fire in the wood-burning stove every night. The perfect relaxing getaway!

16) Goathland

Another charming village in the North York Moors, Goathland is famous as a film location for two main things: Heartbeat, and as Hogsmeade train station in Harry Potter. It’s a small place, with a few pubs, a handful of shops and hotels, and (of course) the train station. One of the really popular walks is the 3-mile walk along the old railway track to Grosmont. You can also visit Mallyn Spout, a waterfall not far from the (aptly named) Mallyn Spout hotel. Goathland is also one of the main stops on the North York Moors Railway, which is definitely one of the top experiences in the North York Moors!

Read More: Goathland to Grosmont: A Classic Hike in the North York Moors

17) Thornton-le-Dale

Thornton-le-Dale is a popular place to visit in the region for the picturesque and beautiful Thatched Cottage and beck that run through the village. There’s a couple of pubs, lots of shops, cafes, tea rooms, and a few places to get ice cream as well. There are also loads of gorgeous houses here—I had so much fun running around photographing them, pretending I’d be buying one of them! When the weather is nice, everyone flocks to the beck to wade in the cool water. I did a short walk from Thornton-le-Dale to Ellerburn and Dalby Forest, which was just perfect!

Read More: Thornton-le-Dale: Why You Need to Visit This Charming Yorkshire Village

18) Hole of Horcum

The Hole of Horcum circular walk is one of my favorite walks in the North York Moors, and possibly even in the entire country. This gorgeous feat of nature was gradually formed over the years by “spring sapping,” where water would well up on the hills and then slope down. I definitely recommend starting the walk in the village of Levisham, where there’s free parking behind the pub (the Horseshoe Inn). Not only that, but you can have a well-deserved pint at the end of the hike! The full loop (starting and ending in Levisham) takes about 3 hours. Go at the end of August to see the gorgeous purple heather blanketing the Moors.

Read More: Hiking the Hole of Horcum in the North York Moors

19) Staithes

I visited Staithes for the first time in December 2018, and it was so gorgeous I couldn’t help but fall in love with it immediately. A charming fishing village, Staithes is located on the edge of the North York Moors along the coast. The viewpoint from the top of the hill is one of those classic Yorkshire shots, and the main street through town is beautiful (and blissfully quiet when I went!). I had amazing ice cream at Cobbles, and the Cod and Lobster is a very popular pub for (you guessed it) seafood. Parking is located at the top of the hill—there is no visitor parking at the bottom, so you’ll need to walk up and down!

One of Yorkshire’s most popular seaside towns, Whitby is one of my favorite places along the coast. It was also one of the first places in Yorkshire (and the North York Moors) that I visited when I moved to York over 4 years ago! There’s so much to see in Whitby. But you have to see the Whalebone Arch, the 199 Steps, and the magnificent Whitby Abbey. There’s also no better place to enjoy fish and chips than the seaside! Whitby can get busy in the summer months (especially on weekends) but it is definitely one of the best places to visit in the North York Moors. (And yes, it is technically located outside the national park limits but hey—my blog post, I can write what I like!)

Read More: A Perfect Day in Whitby

21) Robin Hood’s Bay

The last place in this post, and another gorgeous seaside location: Robin Hood’s Bay. The village used to be a smuggling haven, with everyone in town involved in the illegal trade. Now, it’s a charming village with beautiful views of the sea, quaint cottages, and a few nice pubs. The Bay Hotel is the traditional endpoint of the Coast to Coast hike—but I especially liked the walk from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay! Robin Hood’s Bay is also located down a steep hill, with parking at the top—so again, be prepared to walk. This is definitely one of my favorite places in the North York Moors!

Read More: Walking From Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay: One of My Favorite Walks in Yorkshire

How To Get Around the North York Moors

There’s no way around it: a rural area like the North York Moors requires a car. With your own transportation, simply put you can get to see more places. You may drive on lots of very narrow, single-lane roads. I always recommend to drive very cautiously, especially around corners and up/down blind hills. There are passing places on these roads where cars can safely pass one another, but keep in mind you might need to reverse into one!

While you do need a car to really get the most of the national park and this area, there are quite a few places accessible by public transport if you’re based around York. Whitby, Grosmont, Lealholm, Danby, Castleton, and others can be accessed by train through the Esk Valley railway (running from Middlesborough to Whitby). I always use Trainline for booking my trains. Goathland is a great stop if you’re taking the North York Moors Railway from Pickering to Whitby or vice versa. The 31X bus runs from York through Coxwold and Byland Abbey to Helmsley. Hutton-le-Hole is serviced by the 174 and 176 buses going from Pickering to Kirkbymoorside. Whitby can be easily accessed from Leeds or York by the Coastliner buses, and it’s easy to get from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay by bus X93. Looking for a day tour? Check out the options below!

If you’re flying to the UK, the nearest airports for the North York Moors National Park are Leeds-Bradford, Newcastle, and Doncaster Sheffield. Manchester is the largest nearby airport (and best for international flight options), with direct trains running to York and Middlesborough from the airport. I recommend using Skyscanner to book flights!

Where to Stay in the North York Moors

There is so much of the North York Moors to see. Where you want to stay and what kind of experience you want to have is really up to you! If you don’t have your own transportation, I’d strongly recommend visiting somewhere with good transport links, like Whitby. If you’re looking for a beachy seaside getaway, Staithes, Whitby, and Robin Hood’s Bay have huge numbers of holiday cottages you can rent for a weekend or a week! I loved staying in this rural Airbnb not far from Lealholm in Great Fryupdale. There are lots of YHA locations throughout the Moors which have both dorms and private rooms. You can find country hotels and B&Bs too. Basically, you’ve got lots of options! You can search for hostels on Hostelworld here , or look for hotels and apartments on Booking.com here ! You can also sign up to and search for accommodation on Airbnb here .

The North York Moors is one of my favorite national parks in the country, and has so much to see. I have loved exploring this amazing place, and can’t wait to see even more as time goes on! I hope you enjoy these best places to visit in the North York Moors!

Have you ever visited the North York Moors? Where were your favorite places?!

You might also like my posts on other places in Yorkshire:

The Ultimate Yorkshire Guide: 88 Incredible Places to Visit in Yorkshire

The Best Hikes in the North York Moors

Quintessential Yorkshire: The Best 4 Daytrips From York

The Best Walks In and Around York, England

The BEST Places to Visit in the Yorkshire Dales

18 Hidden Gems to See in York

All my Yorkshire posts and York posts !

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33 thoughts on “ 21 of the best places to visit in the north york moors ”.

[…] love most about living in York is the easy access to the outdoors. Within an hour, I can be in the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales. In two hours, I can be in the Peak District, and within three hours, I can […]

[…] has been exploring Yorkshire and the countryside around the city. I’ve written a lot about the North York Moors National Park, so I thought it only fair to take a day out to the Yorkshire Dales National Park […]

[…] 16 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] More: 16 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors, Hiking The Hole Of Horcum In The North York […]

[…] seem like a lifetime ago, but just earlier this year I went on a wonderful hike in Farndale in the North York Moors. Farndale is primarily popular for its daffodils—the Google Maps location even labels it as the […]

[…] I can get outside and discover! One of my favorite hikes so far has been in the Wainstones in the North York Moors. Here’s my guide to the hike from Chop Gate to the […]

[…] dales, forests, moors, peaks, lakes—you name it. One of my favorite places in the county is the North York Moors National Park, and one of my favorite hikes to date in Yorkshire has been the Hole of Horcum! And despite doing […]

[…] am completely spoiled living in York. It’s about an hours’ drive to the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales. The Peak District is less than two hours away, the Lake District is less […]

[…] Read More: 16 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] Topping is one of the best places to visit in the North York Moors National Park. Thanks to its distinctive shape, it’s even known as the “Yorkshire Matterhorn” in the area! […]

[…] is so much to see and do in the North York Moors National Park! You can visit the coast at small towns like Staithes or Robin Hood’s Bay. Postcard-perfect […]

[…] I love most about living in Yorkshire is how many amazing places there are to explore here. The North York Moors National Park has so many fantastic places to visit and the area around Goathland is definitely one of them. Goathland’s main claim to fame is as a […]

[…] is so much to see and do in the North York Moors National Park! You can visit the coast at small towns like Staithes or Robin Hood’s Bay. Postcard-perfect […]

[…] of the best walks in the country is the Hole of Horcum in the North York Moors National Park. The traditional starting point for the walk is the Saltergate car park off the A169, but you can […]

[…] North York Moors National Park is a beautiful area to explore. One of the best things to do is to explore the seaside villages and […]

[…] Read More: 21 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] the heather in bloom in August. As you drive over the A169 road and venture into the heart of the North York Moors National Park, you’ll catch a view of purple blanketing the moors as far as the eye can see. The walk around […]

[…] 21 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] of the best things to do in North York Moors is to explore the pretty villages – Goathland, Robin Hood’s Bay, Thornton-le-Dale, and Helmsley […]

[…] I saw so much of Yorkshire, constantly ticking things off my Yorkshire bucket list. I hiked in the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales and across the entire country when I did Hadrian’s Wall. It’s been […]

[…] The Howardian Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) just outside York, close to the North York Moors National Park. Here’s what you need to know about this walk from Kirkham Priory and along the River […]

[…] Park. Over the years, I’ve explored nearly every single corner of this area – there are so many incredible places to visit in the North York Moors. Planning a walk and wanting to get outside? Here’s my guide to the best hikes in the North York […]

[…] to get back to York in the evening after your walk. So this post does focus more on walks in the North York Moors, which are a bit more convenient from York. Here are the best car-free walks from […]

[…] ruins from the area’s mining heyday. This is definitely one of my new favorite places in the North York Moors, and a great place to go hiking! Here’s what you should know about this hike from Rosedale […]

[…] by being there. In addition, York’s location is fantastic. It’s about a 1-hour drive to the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales, two incredible national parks. I can get to the coast for some beachy […]

[…] Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) just outside of York, on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. One of my favorite walks outside of York is from Kirkham Priory and along the River Derwent in the […]

[…] I cheating with this one? Kind of. Do I care? Nope! The North York Moors is a beautiful National Park, and is located just north of the city of York. There is so much to […]

[…] was my savior – I craved the open air of the countryside I was so used to visiting (like the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales). The trails along the Foss offered me glimpses of the peace and quiet I can […]

[…] of the best places to see bluebells in the UK is around Roseberry Topping in the North York Moors National Park. At 320 meters high, Roseberry Topping one of the most distinct hills in the area, and a very […]

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Places to visit in North Yorkshire

When you visit North Yorkshire, you’ll soon embrace the great outdoors. Bring your walking shoes for uphill climbs across Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to castles and abbey ruins that frame the landscape, and afterwards, recharge in regal spa town tearooms and market town pubs over jugs of locally brewed Ruby Ale. One of the best things to do in North Yorkshire of all is amble round historic York, with its gothic York Minster cathedral decked out in stained glass. Get lost in cobbled snickelway passages, or take in ancient forts and bridges on a River Ouse cruise.

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24 hours in Whitby

Scratch the surface of the Gothic, historic and dramatic seaside town of Whitby, perched on the Yorkshire Coast.

8 places to switch off in North Yorkshire

Feast your eyes on dramatic coastal scenery, historic abbeys, and hidden villages on your next short break to the Yorkshire coast.

Take afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms

Experience vintage English hospitality and choose from hundreds of delicious treats and tea varieties in this iconic Art Deco café.

Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Kiss under the Heart of Yorkshire window at the Minster

According to legend, all loved up couples that kiss under the 'Heart of Yorkshire' window, will stay together forever.

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Go shopping medieval-style along The Shambles

Travel back in time along one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, with cheerful cafés and quirky shops in timber-framed buildings.

March along England's longest medieval city walls

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and stroll along its 13th century defensive walls, passing historic landmarks, gatehouses and gardens.

Get on board at the National Railway Museum

The world's largest railway museum is home to a staggering collection of restored locomotives, including the fastest steam engine of all time.

Rainy Day Activities: Step back in time at York Castle Museum

Travel back in time on a rainy day at this trend-setting museum, which transports visitors back through 300 years of history.

Go ghost hunting in ‘Europe's most haunted city’

York claims to be the world’s first city to run ghost walks – you’ll soon see why, with tales of murder, mayhem and gore at every corner.

Take a cruise along the River Ouse

The city of York owes its existence to the rivers. Escape the city rush and admire the scenery from the comfort of a City Cruises boat.

Explore the city of York by bike

York is voted as one of the most bike-friendly cities in England with a wide range of cycle routes through the city and beyond.

See England's finest view from Sutton Bank

Celebrated author and vet James Herriot gave the view from Sutton Bank the ultimate accolade – “England’s finest”. Find out if he was right…

Location: Sutton Bank, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Keeping it in the family at Castle Howard

The Howard family has called Castle Howard home for 300 years but their house is your house as you explore one of Yorkshire’s finest historic estates.

Celebrate Ryedale's heritage at the Folk Museum

Discover this hidden gem deep in the North York Moors National Park and uncover English antiques and curiosities.

Location: Hutton-le-Hole, North Yorkshire

Take on adventures aplenty in Dalby Forest

See some of Yorkshire’s beautiful countryside from a mountain bike, Segway, tree-top trail and by night, at one of the UK’s premier activity centres.

Location: Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire

Dive into an underwater world at SEA LIFE Scarborough

Discover a magical underwater world at one of North Yorkshire's best family attractions.

Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Get your jazz hands out for the Scarborough Jazz Festival

Each September, the annual Scarborough Jazz Festival on Yorkshire’s north coast provides the ideal tonic for music lovers to wash away those summer blues.

Enjoy a magical ride across the English countryside

With your day ticket in hand, hop on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and discover some of the best villages in UK between Pickering and Whitby.

Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Savour family fun in sandy Scarborough

If you’re looking for good old-fashioned fun that's easy on the wallet, you might want to consider Scarborough beach, also known as the “St Tropez of the North”.

Be royalty for a day at Scarborough Castle

Take an audio tour around the Castle, enjoy breathtaking views from the headland of the North Yorkshire Coast and have tea in a historic building.

Explore historic Whitby Abbey

Discover how over 2,000 years of history made Whitby Abbey one of England’s most important archaeological sites.

Create your own work of art in a quaint artist’s bolthole

Get the creative juices following and spend the weekend discovering inspiring landscapes just waiting to be captured.

Location: Staithes, North Yorkshire

Delve into the story of Dracula

Probe into the dramatic history of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in the very place where the stories of the bloodthirsty vampire were born.

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Rights-of-way footpaths cut across heather coated heathland, ridges and North Sea cliff edges in the North York Moors. Follow dinosaur footprints to the Jurassic bays of the Heritage Coast.

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THE ULTIMATE NORTH YORKSHIRE COAST ROAD TRIP

Last Updated on 28th November 2022 by Bejal

The North Yorkshire coastline is one of contrasts and spans from the Tees to the Humber Estuaries. This beautiful but under-rated (in my opinion) coastline boasts a plethora of open spaces, fresh bracing sea air and is a haven for seafood lovers! It also offers some of the best coastal abodes and attractions, from historical and heritage sites, challenging activities for those who like to expel their energy, art-filled culture and sheer unadulterated relaxation with many secluded beaches and the mind-blowing towering cliffs, making this expansive stretch of land and sea, a UK destination that offers something for everyone.

In This Article

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Considering a visit? Have I whet your appetite for discovery? Well come and join me as I share my experiences exploring some of the best villages and towns in North Yorkshire and often located in the National Moors Park. Remember to pack a coat and maybe your windbreaker because you know sometimes, the cliches about the North may not just be cliches and it’s just the sacrifice you have to make to have a little intimacy with this beautiful land.

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Where is the North Yorkshire Coast Located

How to Get to North Yorkshire

• Rail – High speed trains from London to the cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, Doncaster and Hull can take around 90 minutes. . orkshire’s cities and market towns are also easy to get to from other parts of the country. For specific services and train companies, refer to Trainline
• Coach – National Express Coaches operate regular direct services from London to the cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, Doncaster and Hull. With the M1 Motorway providing fast access to the region, National Express services from London (Victoria) to Leeds take as little as four hours. Trainline is a great place to check out bus routes as well as National Express.
• Car – Take the M1 and A1 from the south, M5 and M42 from the South West link to the M1, from Wales, from the Midlands the M6 provides links to the M62, taking you right into the heart of Yorkshire or alternatively take the M1. From the North West: the M62 brings you right into the heart of Yorkshire and speeds you to the A1. From the North East: the A1 serves as the main route into Yorkshire and from Scotland: access to Yorkshire is made easy via the A1 from Edinburgh. If you don’t have a car, look into hiring a car with Europcar
• Air – Leeds Bradford Airport  offers flights from a range of UK airports, icluding flights London Heathrow with British Airways, Aberdeen and Southampton with Eastern, Belfast, Newquay and Glasgow with Flybe, Guernsey with Aurigny and Jersey with Jet 2 Holidays. In addition, Ryanair operates  a Dublin route and regular Dublin and Cork services are also available with Aer Lingus. Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) is the UK’s newest purpose built international airport, having commenced operation in April 2005 on the site of the former RAF Finningley air base. The Airport is located 7 miles from Doncaster and 25 miles from Sheffield, serving passengers across Yorkshire, the Humber and the North Midlands. 

Where to Park During Your Road Trip

If you follow the road to the sea front in most of the towns and villages, you will be led to the closest car parking facilities to the beach, I’d say the average is around £2.20 per hour and costs a lot less as expected, depending on length of stay. The car parks are located at the top of a hill and usually there is a steep walk down to the village from the car park and even steeper on the way up! Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Where to Stay in North Yorkshire

There are so many accommodation options in this part of the country as you can imagine but if you’re looking for a fantastic luxury country retreat location opt for Wrea Head Hotel , It is located in the village of Scalby, bordering the Yorkshire Moors National Park. The location of the 25 room hotel also makes it perfect for exploring the coastal towns and villages and means that they’re not more than 15-45 minutes drive away.

Related Article: Wrea Head Hall Hotel: A Luxury Country Hotel Review Hotel spotlight

Search for Your North Yorkshire Hotel

(Please note Whitby has been used as a starting point)

How Long to Stay

If you’re not staying in any of the coastal towns I would encourage you to do a little research and decide upon what you aim to do. This will help with length of stay and deciding on car parking times. We spent around 3-4 hours at places such as Whitby, Ravenscar, Runswick Bay including coastal walks but similarly you can spend a couple for an hour or so (Sandsend, Flamborough).

Best Time to Visit North Yorkshire

The best time to visit the North Yorkshire coastal towns would most definitely be the summer but this is also the most busiest. So for a quieter experience, shoulder season, either side of summer is ideal. The weather may be. a little cooler (after all this is England and unpredictable!) but accommodation prices will be less as will the queues for local attractions and restaurants. It’s good to note that during the winter, many of teh towns close a lot of the touristy things to do and are prepping for the new season. However a trip to grab some fresh sea air is always a good idea!

North Yorkshire Coastal Town Road Trip Stops

In the late 18th and 19th century, Staithes was a busy fishing port with hundreds of fishermen working out of the harbour. Today, the seafaring tradition is pretty strong as Staithes boats continue to catch mackerel, cod, crab and lobster. In it’s heyday, Staithes was home to the largest herring fleet on the East Coast of England. It was also a village for artists, who used the harbour as their inspiration.

The Best Things to do in Staithes

• Walk down to picturesque harbpur front.
• Visit Betsy & Bo gift shop.
• Pop into Cobbles for an ice-cream or pizza.
• Sample the fresh catch of teh day complete with harbour views at The Cod & Lobster.
• Go to the Captain Cook (he once lived in Staithes) and Heritage Centre.
• Walk down the small narrow cobbled stoned streets and take in the shop fronts, harbours, paintings and pretty village scenes. Staithes is home to a community of artists therefore there is a lot of arts and heritage around.
• Living Tradition: many boat owners (high bowed boats, referred to as ‘Cobles’) still name their houses after their boats and paint them n the same colours. You can see the boast on the beach and near the small bridge off High Street.
• Support local and have a drink at The Royal George or The Captain Cook.

Runswick Bay

Runswick Bay is a village of steeply raked white-painted cottages looks over one of the finest sandy beaches in Northern England. It also has the accolade ‘Best Beach 2020’ as published in the Sunday Times!

The red roofed houses haven’t changed much since they belonged to herring fishermen with their pocket sized gardens and surprise views. The village had to be rebuilt after a tragic ground-slip in 1664. Today much of town is scattered by cute holiday cottages, and narrow alleys, which lead to secret back gardens and incredible sea views, which are hidden unless you try hard to look for them!

The Best Things to do in Runswick Bay

• Walk along teh sandy beach, partake in some sand castle building and rock pooling.
• The 150 million year old Jurassic Age shales that make up Runswick Bay have yielded huge numbers of fossils or rare marine reptiles and marine ferns. You may even see them on the beach front but don’t touch!
• Runswick Bay just like Staithes is located within the Yorkshire Moors National Park so walking teh coastal path or Cleveland Trail is great if you like to stay active
• See teh thatched cottage on the harbour front, which was once the coast guards house and the tiny Methodist Chapel which is now a private house in the village.
• The village only has 90 or so cottages with not many being let out as holiday homes so take in the tranquility and peace. Grab a pew on one of the coastal benches as you explore the small alleys.
• Fuel up in the Sandside Cafe boasting endless sea views.

A charming village stretched along a sweep of fine beach, divided by a stream running into the sea, Sandsend is great for families, surfers and fossil hunters. It has some great places to eat from beach shacks serving crab sandwiches to fine food restaurants, a gallery and a luxury hotel with Spa.

Things to so in Sandsend

• Walk along teh long stretch of sandy beach
• Go to the Hart Inn for a drink and some delicious pub grub
• Explore the other restaurants the village has to offer along teh coast and inland
• If you love art, visit the Turnstone Gallery
• Walk the clifftop coastal path to take beautiful panoramic photos of teh Jurassic Coastline.

Whitby offers beaches and myriad attractions, including the world-famous steam-powered North Yorkshire Moors Railway. It’s a town steeped in history: fishing, whaling, the jet industry, Captain Cook, the glorious Abbey, and did you know Bran Stoker’s Dracula was inspired by the town.

Whitby has some postcard-worthy spots with it ‘ s location at the mouth of the River Esk and charming little streets with quaint coloured cottages.

Whitby has plenty of places to eat and drink as it’s a lot bigger than the other coastal villages and some lovely independent stores. So set aside some time to meander the cobbled-stoned streets and drop in for tea and cake at one of the many little cafes or treat yourself to a Fish & Chip lunch, after all, that is what you do at the seaside!

The Best Things to do in Whitby

• Visit Whitby Whale Bone Arch. Located on Whitby’s West Cliff, teh arch is a testimony of the Port’s longstanding whaling tradition. Erected in 1853, this 15-foot archway frames a beautiful photo of WhitbyAbbey in the distance.
• Whitby Abbey & St. Mary’s Church, A Christian Monastery built in the 7th Century, stands proudly on the East Cliff, facing the North Sea. It is Grade I Listed. The Abbey is now in ruins but was featured in Bram Stocker’s Dracula novel.
• Henrietta Street. A quaint and pretty street with blue and white facades.A photographers haven in the historic part of town.

• Fortune’s Smokehouse is considered the last standing smokehouse in town. It first opened in 1872 and feels old-world as you walk into teh family-owned shop, producing oakwood-smoked kippers, smoked salmon, haddock and bacon.
• Whitby Harbour and Pier. If you don’t fancy walking down to the Pier, then you can get a great view of this from the 199 Steps that lead up to Whitby Abbey. It’s well worth teh climb.
• Whitby has a number of museums: captain Cook Memorial Museum, RNLI Lifeboat Museum, Museum of Victorian Sciences and the Whitby Museum.

The Best Activities in Whitby

• Whitby & North Yorkshire Moors Trip from York
• Whitby audio guide with lifetime access

Robin Hood Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay is known for it’s fishermen, sea captains, smugglers (in the 18th century) and even dinosaurs. This village is truly one, which gives stupendous views from the hill, winding alleys, which lead to the most cutest cottages and sea views, with sweeping views of cliffs and the dock below. I would have to say it’s one of my favourite villages on the North Yorkshire coast with it’s cafes, restaurants, shops and pubs.

To find out the villages links with Robin Hood, you’ll have to pay the ex-coroner’s room, turned museum a visit!

The Best Things to do in Robin Hood Bay

• Visit the Old Coastguard Station
• Discover teh Robin Hood Bay Museum
• Go rock pooling on the huge beach
• Explore the Cleveland Way and walk to Ravenscar
• Eat Fish & Chips in The Dock
• Shop in one of the many independent quirky boutiques
• Walk the small cobbled alleyways and discover hidden fishermen’s cottages and their courtyards
• Look for door knockers on cottage doors shaped like fish, anchors and galleons. These were where captains and sip owners once lived.
• Visit the Dinosaur and Fossil Museum
• Scope out the writer,Leo Walmsley’s house.

Ravenscar was once a site for a string of Roman signal stations along this part of the Yorkshire coast. The Raven Hall Hotel, perched on the clifftop, was once a home owned by King George III’s physician, Dr Francis Willis: it’s rumoured that the king may have stayed there during his treatment. A stone’s throw away is the alum works, once an important part of this country’s fabric dyeing industry.

In the late Victorian period, big plans were made for Ravenscar to become a holiday resort to rival Scarborough and Whitby. However the company went bankrupt and today The National Trust own the land so it can remain as beautiful and unspoilt for us to enjoy this eastern part of the North Yorkshire Moors national Park and Jurassic Coastline.

The Best Things to do in Ravenscar

• Take teh short loop walk ti teh famous Alum Works
• Hike to Hayburn Wyke or walk 5 miles to Robin Hoods Bay via the Cleveland Way
• Take you’re bije along if you’re a keen cyclist and follow the Cinder Track to Robin Hood’s Bay, Wihitby, Scarborough and Hayburn Wyke.
• Walk down to the beach and spot the resident seal colony, visible when the sun is out, lazing down teh rocks. Please do not get too close and keep at least a miles distance.
• There is a National Trust Information Centre, which provides hot and cold drinks and lots of advice and information on what to see.
• Sit on teh clifftops and admire the views before making the very steep walk up to the top again.

Scarborough

The original Yorkshire seaside resort town of Scarborough with pretty scenery and a stunning sandy beach, there is much to do and see. Did you know people have been flocking to Scarborough for over 400 years?!

S carborough has a rich history, along with a small street art scene, shopping streets, fancy cafes as well as the traditional seaside elements with its multi-colour beach huts you can hire, numerous ice-cream parlours and shellfish restaurants along the coast and the traditional amusement arcades synonymous of the seaside.

The Best Things to do in Scarborough

• Marvel at the impressive building of the Scarborough Grand Hotel
• Visit Scarborough Castle which has great views of the coast. The castle is part of English Heritage, so take your membership card
• Spend some time in the Rotunda Museum of Geology
• Check out the traditional amusement arcades, Shellfish restaurants, ice-cream parlours and many fish and chip restaurants.

Be-lavie Recommendation: Try the award-winning Papa’s Fish & Chip sop which has sea views

• Try boating in Peasholm, take a ride on teh miniature railway, venture up onto the oldest funicular in England, visit the Scarborough Sealife Sanctuary, Sky Trail adventure bridge or go to the water park.
• Check out he independent boutique shops, street art just before the Grand Scarborough Hotel.

The Best Activities in Scarborough

• Sea Life Centre, Scarborough

Filey is the perfect place for those who enjoy a gentler pace of life with its glorious sweep of soft, golden sand. Filey beach is one of the best in the country for families and it’s huge! It’s the perfect place to take a walk, fly a kite, build a sandcastle, snooze in a deckchair, or maybe do a spot of birdwatching. The town has understated Edwardian architecture, quirky shops and an intriguing museum.

The Best Things to do in Filey

• Walk along teh beach or relax on a deck chair.
• Walk around the small village and spot the small shops selling quirky items
• Stop by the beachside kiosks and have a cuppa, fish and chips or a buttie.
• Pop into Filey Museum
• Filey beach is a great place to watch sunrise
• Take a stroll down Church Street and look at some of teh oldest houses in the village where fishermen once lived.

Flamborough

Flamborough is one of the Yorkshire coast’s most dramatic locations. The white cliffs tower over beaches perfect for hiking and birdwatching – Flamborough is just a stone’s throw away from one of the UK’s most famous RSPB reserves, Bempton, which boasts the largest and most accessible mainland nesting colony of gannets, puffins, razorbills, guillemots and other seabirds.

The beaches of North and South Landing offer some fantastic rock-pooling – under the watchful eye of seals or maybe even a peregrine falcon and the Living Seas Centre can offer advice on what to visit and see in the area.

The Best Things to do in Flamborough

• Hike or birdwatch off teh white Flamborough cliffs and spot gannets, puffins, razorbills, guillemots and other sea birds.
• The beaches offer some fantastic rock pooling opportunities
• Spot Peregrine Falcons or seals around teh rock pools
• There are 2 lighthouses and one is Grade II listed and the oldest in the UK, possibly in the world. The other lighthouse is a little newer built in the 19th century and is a waypoint for deep sea vessels today.

Flamborough has two lighthouses, the first, a stately chalk tower, was built in 1669 and, it’s believed, was never lit. It’s now a Grade II listed building, the oldest complete lighthouse structure in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. The ‘new ‘ lighthouse, built in 1806, acts as a waypoint for deep sea vessels and coastal traffic as well as marking Flamborough Head .

Bridlington

Bridlington is truly blessed with gloriously clean beaches, history, sporting fun, independent shops, great entertainment and amazing nature. Whatever the weather this town has something to entertain everyone .

The Best Things to do in Bridlington

• Walk along Bridlington’s long stretch of sandy beach
• If you love history then head down to the pre-Roman harbour and characterful old town
• Visit the beautiful Augustinian Priory, Bayle Museum and Harbour Heritage Museum
• Nature lovers can take a seashore safari with a boat trip around teh bay or birdwatching at Bempton Cliffs.
• Bridlington Spa hosts the best dance, comedy and music performances.

Wining & Dining in North Yorkshire

The foodie scene in North Yorkshire, especially along the coastline is quite strong on seafood as can be expected. However almost all of the towns and villages are scattered with a grand mix of cuisines, quaint tea rooms, fine-dining restaurants but North Yorkshire does traditional Pub food incredibly well accompanied by a fine array of real ales. But when in North Yorkshire, make sure you enjoy some fish and chips on one of the many beaches.

North Yorkshire Coast Roundup

The North Yorkshire coast really is one of the most beautiful parts of England with so much to see and do at any time of the year but to enjoy the beaches spring and summer are the best. From lying on the beach to discovering rock pools, heritage museums, relaxing in country or beachside hotels and enjoying the cuisine, a North Yorkshire road trip is definitely a fab staycation option as well as a great part of England to discover for international visitors.

North Yorkshire Related Reading

• Wrea Head Hall Hotel: A Luxury Country Hotel Review
• 10 Sites to explore with English Heritage
• 10 UK National Trust Properties to Visit
• Head to North Yorkshire Coast for further information about the area.

I’m Bejal aka Be, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and digital content creator. I have travelled to 6 continents, visited 70 plus countries, including an around the world trip, making me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries. I love to discover some of the world's more remote destinations and stay in some incredible hidden location eco-hotels. My aim is to transport you, my audience, to inspirational and cultural global spots that are less visited and allow you to see the 'real' and authentic side of destinations through detailed guides with a sprinkling of luxury. The spotlight is on eco-friendly responsible experiential travel with lifelong memories.

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The best uk destinations you must visit now, my love affair with the ancient incan city of cusco, my 10 most romantic experiences from around the globe.

As always you photography is stunning and knowledge about the chosen area amazing! I have never been to this part of the UK, but you surely do make me want to go 🙂

Thanks so much Louise and delighted it has sparked your interest to visit. It’s also a pretty great place for kids so all round family fun!

I love Yorkshire, the food is great and there are so many great walks and friendly locals. You went to so many lovely places. We are (hopefully) off to Scarborough next week!

Aww yes i remember and I totally agree with you Laura! I hop you can visit Scarborough next week and have it all crossed for you. B x

Rubina khanam

Sounds Bliss Be, Love the tips and the photos..a tranquil place..with lots of history! So well captured…adore the colourful boats and views of the cliff side ..I definitely want to pop by xxx

Thankyou Rubina. Oh I hope you do get a chance to visit one day and thanks for your lovely comments. It’s truly how I captured it here and really needs to be shared and adored for its beauty. B xx

Lovely account of your travels Bejal! I love all the colourful doors too ????????????

Thanks for reading Krupali and glad you enjoyed it B x

Scott McGlashan

It’s one place I haven’t visited in the UK but it looks stunning. Thanks for all the information.

It’s a very lovely part of the country and hope you can visit one day. Thanks so much Scott for dropping by and you’re welcome, I really enjoyed my time in North Yorkshire.

Diary of a Londoness

What a wonderfully comprehensive guide to Yorkshire and with glorious photography. Thanks to you, I am very sorely tempted to plan a visit, and Staithes in particular. Although I would really like to see Whitby and its Bram Stoker references (am researching him at the moment, coincidentally!).

Ohh Scarlett, I think you will love Staithes and yes Whitby for Dracula! If you like the look of Staithes, then Robin Hood’s Bay may also be right up tour street. I look forward to when you visit and to see what you think. Thanks for your lovely comment.

Charu Goyal

Such beautiful photos, Bejal! After reading this post, I am gutted that I didn’t get to explore Yorkshire when I lived in the UK. It sounds and looks absolutely wonderful. I’ll have to come back soon now!

Thankyou Charu. Oh well, I think you must make a visit back one day and experience what the Yorkshire coast has to offer.

Ras Bahadur Rai

Wow, your travel blog is a breath of fresh air! I love how you capture the essence of each destination you visit. The way you describe and share hidden gems really makes me feel like I’m there. Keep up the fantastic work!

Thanks very much for your kind comment. I am glad that you enjoy this little space on the internet and the blog articles. Thanks so much for reading.

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WREA HEAD HALL: A BEAUTIFUL LUXURY COUNTRY HOTEL REVIEW

Kayaking adventure along the river soar with let’s get lost, privacy overview.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in North Yorkshire (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in North Yorkshire (England)

As England’s largest county, North Yorkshire has a dizzying array of towns and natural environments, from barely-charted cave systems to sweeping sandy beaches, and from stately spa towns to remote upland hamlets.

To say there’s something for everyone in North Yorkshire doesn’t begin to sum it up.

Still, anybody coming to this neck of the woods should be directed to York, which is ancient and beautiful, as well as the Victorian resorts on the coast like Scarborough and Saltburn, which possess a dignity and elegance you don’t often see in English coastal towns.

For nature there are two massive national parks, while history abounds in the shape of haunting abbeys, heritage steam railways and Norman castles.

Lets explore the best places to visit in North Yorkshire :

When it comes to heritage, historical appeal and plain good looks, York is practically unmatched in England.

The city can be traced back to the 1st century, and during medieval times was England’s second city after London.

York was held in such high esteem by the Georgians it was safeguarded from the chimneystacks of the Industrial Revolution.

And so you’re left with an unspoiled warren of cobblestone streets, corbelled timber houses and 18th-century flat-fronted townhouses.

York Minster is one of Northern Europe’s largest gothic cathedrals and an enduring masterwork of medieval art.

When the railways arrived in York the city became an integral transport hub between London and Edinburgh, and you can dip into this history at the peerless National Railway Museum.

Penned to the coast by the North York Moors, Whitby is a town around a former whaling harbour lodged in the River Esk estuary.

The older east bank of the river is all fishing cottages, cobblestone lanes and maritime inns, with a listed building every few steps.

Looking down on that east bank are the spectral ruins of Whitby Abbey, claimed to have inspired Bram Stoker to make the town his point of arrival for Dracula.

The town has cinematic beaches, historic churches, loads of fragments of its old whaling industry and a museum for Captain James Cook, the first western explorer to reach Australia, New Zealand and the Hawaiian Islands.

This attraction is in the former home of the Walker Brothers, ship-owners who employed Cook while he was in Whitby.

3. Scarborough

Packed onto rocky limestone terrain, Scarborough could well be the cream of England’s seaside resorts and has been attracting tourists since the 1500s.

It was the Victorians who made an industry of tourism in Scarborough, engineering promenades between the North and South Bay and atop the South Cliff.

The Regency and Victorian architecture in these areas of the old spa resort is appropriately rich.

On the seafront next to the fine sandy beach are English seaside essentials like fish and chip shops, ice cream parlours, stands selling cockles and winkles, and the marvellous 19th-century spa complex, now a regal entertainment venue.

4. Harrogate

In the middle of rural North Yorkshire, Harrogate’s 88 springs became all the rage in the 17th century, and an exclusive spa town was soon born.

Harrogate has lost none of that historic lustre, and is replete with dignified Georgian houses, hotels and old pump rooms on cobblestone lanes and grand avenues.

Now the name is a synonym for luxury, as illustrated by Betty’s Cafe Tea Rooms, possibly the finest place for afternoon tea in England and frequented by the Queen when she’s in town.

England’s third-smallest city is also the oldest in the country, having been founded more than 1,350 years ago.

There are sights in Ripon that will leave you speechless.

And this certainly applies to the Studley Royal Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This 18th century country garden in the romantic style was designed to complement the atmospheric ruins of Fountains Abbey, which was built in the 12th century and then abandoned in the 1500s.

Ripon Cathedral is the other indispensable attraction, designed mostly in the early English gothic style.

Look out for the 35 “misericords” , carvings on the underside of the choir seats, commissioned in the early-1490s.

6. Yorkshire Dales

Taking up massive swathes of the northwestern side of the county, the Yorkshire Dales are hills and river valleys on a limestone bed.

This geology grants the park majestic cave systems that, like Goyden, Stump Cross, Ingleborough and White Scar, are open as show caves for tours.

Many others are the preserve of experienced cavers and potholers, and if this interests you there are lots of guides waiting to take you on subterranean adventures.

For everyone else the Dales mean hikes in one of the most secluded areas in England where your friends and loved ones, and herds of Swaledale sheep, may be your only company.

7. North York Moors

Those who crave the outdoors are spoiled in North Yorkshire, as the county also has the North York Moors National Park.

This is 1,430 square kilometres of heather moorland and forest to the east of the county, continuing right to the North Sea coast where it yields to cliffs and magical sandy beaches.

The uplands, with hills rising above 400 metres is dramatic heather moor, while this falls away to deep dales with seams of ancient woodland.

There are more mature trees on the North York Moors than any other place in Northern England.

Only a few thousand people live on the North York Moors, so settlements are limited to hamlets and villages with pubs that will be a welcome sight for hungry or weary walkers and cyclists.

No settlement in the Yorkshire Dales are blessed with as much limestone formations as the village of Malham.

On treks around Malham you’ll reach a host of minor natural wonders in a matter of minutes.

Most photographed is Malham Cove, a sheer wall, 80 metres high and shaped by an ice age river.

Climbers love to scale the cliffs, while cave divers explore the maze-like cave system and the base, which is at least 1.6 kilometres long.

There’s an awe-inspiring raving at Gordale Scar, painted by Turner and eulogised by the poet William Wordsworth.

Then there’s Malham Tarn, England’s highest lake and a National Trust site for its unusual alkaline waters and biology.

9. Helmsley

This market town straddles the boundary of the North York Moors National Park and is the trailhead for the long-distance Cleveland Way, which curls through the park and along the coast down to Filey more than 110 metres away.

If there’s one monument you must see in Helmsley it’s the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey.

The ruins are managed by English Heritage and are some of the most complete of any abandoned abbey in the country.

This was once one of England’s wealthiest Cistercian monasteries until it was dissolved by Henry VIII in the 1500s.

There’s much more to the town than this though, as Helmsley features a castle brewery a centre for birds of prey and an exquisite walled garden from 1759.

10. Knaresborough

People travel  a long way to Knaresborough just for the sight of the town teetering on the steep gorge on the east bank of the River Nidd.

And what sets the view off is the lovely Knaresborough Viaduct crossing through the gorge carrying trains into the town.

Knaresborough’s sharp gradient only makes it prettier, as you clamber up the cobblestone streets and staircases that rise from the riverside.

On the west bank is a spring with such high mineral content that objects left hanging here take on a stony appearance after a few years.

This is also Mother Shipton’s cave, where the notorious 15th-century prognosticator was supposedly born.

11. Grassington

In the Yorkshire Dales the smart market town of Grassington has a village-like feel and is one of the best places to stay if you’re thinking of a hiking holiday in the park.

There’ a park authority information centre to clue you in everything you can track down in the wilderness close by, and a cute little folk museum depicting traditional costume and trades.

The picturesque village of Linton close by has the Linton Falls, a man-made weir with a high volume of water crashing on the rocks below.

These waters were channelled to power old textile mills, and a hydroelectric plant here that had been defunct since the 40s was restored in 2012 and now produces power for the village a century after it was installed.

12. Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Up to the mid-1800s there wasn’t much in Saltburn bar an inn  and a few cottages.

That was until the railways arrived, and with them the Pease Family of industrialists from Darlington.

The story goes that Henry Pease, a Quaker, had a heavenly vision of a city here resembling Jerusalem in 1858 and ventured to bring it to life.

Notice the “Jewel Streets” , a series of parallel roads with sea views, named after precious stones (Amber, Pearl, Diamond) and claimed to be inspired by that original vision.

The resort had a whole load of innovations, like the water-powered “Cliff-Lift” funicular, which still rattles from the pier to the cliff-top.

The Zetland Hotel, now apartments,  was remarkable for being one of the first hotels with its own private train platform.

Like many places towards the North of England Hawes has an Old Norse name, which means “mountain pass”. This comes from the Buttertubs Pass, an upland road that now links Hawes with the villages of Muker and Thwaite to the north.

And as for the name “Buttertubs”, these are the 20-metre limestone potholes on the way, where market traders would store their butter on hot days.

Hawes market has been trading since the early-1300s and got its official charter in 1699. Now it takes place on Tuesdays, and the must-buy is Wensleydale cheese, which is produced in Hawes at the Wensleydale Creamery.

Inquisitive cheese-lovers can stop by to see how George Orwell’s second-favourite cheese is made, and try it for themselves afterwards.

14. Pickering

On the southern verge of the North York Moors, Pickering is the town that many travellers choose as their accommodation for their excursions into the park.

It’s a given that the moors are a big draw in Pickering, but there’s also a weekend’s worth of interesting things to see in and near the town.

Take St Peter and St Paul’s Church, which has a captivating set of frescos on the walls of the nave, with images like St George slaying the dragon, painted around 1450. Also here are the spectacular ruins of Pickering Castle, with a 13th-century ruin with a chapel and much of the outer walls and towers remaining.

Finally, the Beck Isle Museum is a celebrations of all things Victorian, and recreates life in a Market Town in the 1800s.

15. Robin Hood’s Bay

The achingly pretty Robin Hood’s Bay is a seafront village with cliffs, beaches and a little nest of alleys and lanes to explore.

You’re also on Yorkshire’s Dinosaur Coast, where it’s not too difficult to find fossils in the local shale rock, and dinosaur footprints have even been identified.

The village rests in a gap in the cliffs and has no more than a few streets of red brick fishing cottages.

The beach is below, and at low-tide seems to never end.

You can step inside the old Coastguard Station, which is a National Trust property commanding wonderful coastal views, or walk to the Georgian St Stephen’s Church in Fylingdales, which has a 200-year-old Georgian interior that has hardly been touched.

15 Best Places to Visit in North Yorkshire (England):

• Scarborough
• Yorkshire Dales
• North York Moors
• Knaresborough
• Grassington
• Saltburn-by-the-Sea
• Robin Hood's Bay

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Nestled in the picturesque valley of Swaledale, Richmond is one of the most attractive towns in the UK thanks to its Georgian architecture. The town features a charming cobbled marketplace, which is surrounded by elegant 18th-century streets and buildings with a beautiful Gothic medieval church at its heart.

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An iconic boutique Spa town in the heart of Yorkshire, with thriving streets packed with an eclectic mix of boutique shopping and green spaces.

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Full of surprises, a warren of medieval streets and stone staircases, perched on dramatic cliffs with famous views across the River Nidd.

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A cathedral City rich in deep tradition and magnificent history with fascinating stories to tell of its character and people.

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The home of Wensleydale cheese, a town filled with independent shops surrounded by dramatic landscape, great walking and beautiful waterfalls.

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A traditional Yorkshire market town surrounded by a dramatic limestone landscape filled with waterfalls, caves and hills just waiting to be explored.

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A Busy market town with a beautifully broad high street, thriving canal basin and one of Britain’s best preserved castles.

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The birthplace of the James Herriot stories in a thriving market town just a short distance from Sutton Bank and finest view in England.

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Your gateway to the North York Moors National Park where a walled garden, castle and birds of prey centre surround this busy market town.

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Your base for exploring Yorkshire’s largest forest, the North York Moors National Park and a famous steam railway, the perfect place for adventures and activities.

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Head for the bright lights of Scarborough for a classic seaside break packed with ice cream, fish and chips, and plenty of family attractions.

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Uncover coastal charm with a gothic twist in Whitby’s cobbled streets, and delve into dramatic history at the world-famous Abbey.

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This former fishing village offers a peaceful break with an impressive five mile beach, beautiful Edwardian architecture and an historic promenade.

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Having spent centuries on the front line of History Selby has a Norman-era Abbey at its heart, and a thriving market town community full of tradition.

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North Yorkshire’s county town and historical centre, Northallerton is the perfect place to explore independent shops along its beautifully broad high street, lined with Georgian architecture.

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North yorkshire.

England’s largest county is a rich mixture of rolling hills and dales, dramatic moorland and spectacular coastline.  Interspersed among the peaks and valleys, the breathtaking landscapes and open waterways of are distinctive destinations and market towns, each with individual personality and charm.

North Yorkshire’s character can be explored through its amazing food and drink, the rich artistic culture and the echoes of our history that stand proud over the landscape.

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9 best places to visit on the yorkshire coast.

Up in the northeast of England, the county of Yorkshire is a gem – pure and simple!

Hugely diverse, it’s the famous Yorkshire Dales National Park that normally draws the crowds, but having spent quite a bit of time up there (I was a student in the main Yorkshire city of Leeds and have visited several times in my subsequent blogger capacity too!), I’m happy to say there’s even more to Yorkshire than this.

Yes it isn’t a well-known fact, but Yorkshire also has some amazing coastline!

Backed in part by the wonderful North York Moors National Park, with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and some epic walking possibilities, the Yorkshire coast really has a lot to offer, and if you’re up this way, you definitely shouldn’t miss it!

So here’s my list of the best 9 spots to check out there…

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#1 Flamborough

Flamborough in the south of Yorkshire is a quiet little town that has an amazing headland on its doorstep.

With a glorious lighthouse and epic coastal views, combined with some top clifftop walks (including a handy loop that starts and ends in Flamborough town and takes in North Landing and the coast all the way down to Danes Dyke) there’s lot to explore here.

Sandy beaches dot this coastal loop walk, but the jewel in the Flamborough crown is really the birdlife.

With tons of dramatic limestone cliffs, Flamborough Head is home to one of the most important bird colonies in Europe.

In the summer months, the cliffs here are packed with tens of thousands of breeding auks, gannets and gulls and my all-time favourite birds, puffins!

Yes, these cold-sea, coloured beak beauties can easily be spotted in Flamborough, even without binoculars, and I’m so delighted I saw them when I was here too.

Showing how diverse the Yorkshire coast is, the second entry on this list is something totally different from Flamborough – it’s the historic city of Whitby.

Made famous by the impressive Abbey, which sits at the top of the town, this atmospheric set of now ruins is meant to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula and, as such, the town has become a mecca for goths.

Although it’s a climb of 199 steps up to get here, it’s well worth it for the views of both the harbour and the sea and, if you’re a member of English Heritage (or happy to buy a ticket), you can then get into the ruins and enjoy them too.

Otherwise, back down in the cobbled streets of Whitby, it’s all about enjoying a drink, perusing the cute shops, munching down a local ice cream and generally soaking up the vibe in this very unique spot.

A lovely seaside town just above Flamborough, the beachy spot of Filey is a key place to head for on the Yorkshire Coast if you want to feel the sand between your toes and a bucket and spade between your fingers.

Savour a salty fish and chips as you take in the historic promenade of this former fishing village, as well as its beautiful Edwardian architecture and 5 mile sandy bay.

#4 Staithes

Ok, so I’ll let you in on a little secret here – Staithes is actually my favourite spot on this list of the best places on the Yorkshire Coast because it’s like something from another world!

Honestly, when I first stepped out of the car here and began wandering down the tiny, steep, cobbled streets to the sea, I literally felt like I’d just entered a historical TV drama.

The ambience of this isolated fishing town – often and wild and windswept – feels both eerie and beautiful at the same time.

And in the sun, as it was when I visited, it’s even more stunning.

I was here for hours snapping photos (which is pretty amazing because  the town is only about 3 streets big!), but this perfectly formed little village, which sits nestled amongst the cliffs with the moors all round it, is just too picturesque not to!

Once home to Captain Cook – so his legend swirls around the town – this once-thriving port is now a sleepy backwater, but somehow, it’s all the more charming for it.

Climb up to the cliffs on the otherside for the best and most dramatic aerial shots of the place and its stunning natural surrounds.

And from one coastal enclave to another, the bustling port city of Hull probably couldn’t be more different to Staithes!

Located on the south part of the Yorkshire coast, Hull was the British City of Culture in 2017 and, as such received some much-needed regeneration during this time.

Things are looking up for Hull and top of the list of reasons to head there now is the world-class aquarium, The Deep .

The Seven Seas Fish Trail also adds to the list of attractions that explore this city’s important fishing heritage

#6 Runswick Bay

But now we come back to the beaches, and it’s harder to get better along the Yorkshire Coast than the marvel that is Runswick Bay.

A huge stretch of sandy shoreline, complete with some lovely safe swimming, there’s also rock pooling, fossil hunting and coastal walks all on offer here.

The Times newspaper recently named Runswick Bay one of the top 50 beaches in Britain and there’s no denying it’s a family favourite round here!

I arrived at Runswick Bay having hiked from Staithes and can highly recommend this long, but worthwhile clifftop trail.

#7 Robin Hood Bay

And sticking with the bay theme, the other side of Whitby i.e. southwards, the lovely Robin Hood Bay is another top spot around here.

A picturesque old fishing village nestled at the edge of the North York Moors National Park, this dog-friendly and sandy bay is another great spot for families.

The town backs right onto the bay too and provides a lovely heritage dimension with its twisting cobbled streets that invite tales of smugglers and hidden treasures!

#8 Saltburn-by-the Sea

Next up we move right up to the north of Yorkshire Coast, almost to Middlesbrough, as it’s time to really venture off the beaten track and head to the coastal town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea.

Full of Victorian charm, including its beautiful heritage pier (which is the last remaining one in Yorkshire FYI), you can really dig into the kitsch charm here with archaic cliff lifts.

Otherwise, move to modern times and enjoy a spot of surfing while you’re up here… just maybe bring a wetsuit!

#9 Scarborough

And last but not least, it’s probably the most famous spot on the Yorkshire coast, yes at position number 9, it’s the original seaside classic of Scarborough.

I first visited here in 1997 while I was a fresh-faced undergraduate at the National Student Drama Festival, but since then have returned to take in Scarborough with its 2, (yes that’s 2) beaches, its massive open-air theatre, the Cleveland Way walking trail (which boasts over 100 miles of footpaths in beautiful landscape) and it’s oh so iconic bingo hall!

I mean come on, what’s not to love?!

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Yorkshire Coast Travel Tips

When to Visit?

There’s no question in my mind, the best time to visit the Yorkshire coast is during the summer season, when the UK’s good weather allows you to get the nicest experience from your time there, especially if you want to enjoy some hiking and perhaps even, dare I say it, dip in the water!

The only problem with the summer and the weekend is that this is when the coast is at its busiest, so do be warned.

If you have the option to visit some of the beaches on a weekday, or outside of school holidays, then I’d advise this, as parking and finding a patch of sand will be a lot easier at these times!

How to Get There and Around?

Driving to the Yorkshire Coast from across the UK is easy and straightforward with lots of good connections.

If you’re looking to hire a car in the UK, Discover Cars offer some very competitive rates.

Otherwise, if you’d prefer to use public transport, it’s possible, but things do get a bit trickier – mostly due to the lack of train stations in the region!

From London you can get to Scarborough in around 3 hours by train and you can access Whitby from either Leeds, Manchester, York or Newcastle using the rail network too.

From any of these places, you can then usually hire a car, grab a taxi, or perhaps catch a bus to where you need to get to.

As always, I use Trainline to book my UK coach and rail travel as they compare a huge range of transport options, as well as use split-fare features, to get you the best deal on tickets.

Their handy app also allows you to track your journey, as well as save all your tickets in one handy place – winning!

Alternatively, if you’d rather take a tour and not have to arrange or worry about anything, this day trip from York to Whitby and the North York Moors comes highly recommended.

Where to Stay on the Yorkshire Coast?

Whitby and Scarborough all have a heap of accommodation options.

The Mooredge B&B in Whitby and Mansion House in Scarborough both get great reviews.

However, Staithes or Saltburn would be my pick when it comes to a quiet and quaint place to base yourself.

Check out The Endeavour in Staithes or the Brockley Hall in Saltburn for my top recommendations.

How Long to Visit the Yorkshire Coast For?

The answer to this question is really up to you!

If you’re staying or based somewhere like Leeds or York, then you can easily day trip to many of the locations on this list.

Otherwise, if you can manage a weekend, then you’ll certainly be able to tick a good few of these top places to visit off your list.

Yorkshire Coast Packing Essentials

And now here’s my list of the top 5 packing essentials you shouldn’t head to the beautiful coastline of Yorkshire without…

#1 A Good Camera – No doubt you’re going to be snapping like crazy in this gorgeous region and need to ensure you have a good camera to do the place justice.

I love my Sony A6000 and GoPro , which are both light, compact and great for travel.

#2 Decent Walking Shoes – No point coming this far and not being able to enjoy a walk along the clifftops of the Yorkshire coast.

Get prepared therefore and ensure you have a decent pair of walking shoes – these cross trainers from New Balance are ideal (and totally stylish) for the job.

#3 Light Waterproof Jacket – Whatever the time of year, you have to remember this is England after all, a country in which the heavens can open at any point!

Don’t get caught out and ensure you have a good lightweight and waterproof jacket with you.

This North Face one is perfect.

#4 Compact Hiking Day Pack – I never go on any UK day trip without a sturdy backpack to ensure I’ve got everything I need and that the weight is equally distributed across my back and shoulders.

This is especially true when I’m heading to the beach and this super featherweight Kompressor from Marmot is my go-to, because it folds down to nothing and is water-resistant – ideal for those sea salty days.

#5 Portable Charger – And finally, I would never head off anywhere without my trusty Anker Portable Charger , which keeps my phone and camera batteries full all day, every day!

This means no matter how many top things I’m enjoying along the Yorkshire coast, I can take all the snaps and use all the maps I need!

Of course, it goes without saying you should bring your swimwear, beach towel and sunglasses too!

Where to Visit After the Yorkshire Coast?

If you’re still keen for more northern splendour after the Yorkshire coast (and, quite frankly, why wouldn’t you be?!), then you have some more great options on the doorstep.

First up, you may want to stick in the county and explore the Yorkshire Dales – the delightful village of Malham , with its great walks and country charm is a top choice.

Otherwise, if it’s city life you’re after, then Leeds is a buzzing Yorkshire spot you can’t miss.

Or, to the north, there’s the city of Newcastle and the Northumberland National Park or, in the other direction, the city of Liverpool and the world-famous Lake District are just begging to be explored.

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So there you have it, my list of the top 9 places to visit on the Yorkshire coast.

Which is your favourite and which are you heading to next?

Tell me all in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Must-See Places to Visit on the North Yorkshire Coast

Friday 19th June, 2020 by hs-admin

The Yorkshire coastline stretches 45 miles and along the way, you’ll find plenty of charming towns and quaint villages. North Yorkshire in particular is bursting with hidden gems. From Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Staithes, to Sandsend and Whitby, you’ll always find something new to discover…

Marske-by-the-Sea

The delightful town of Marske-by-the-Sea is located between Redcar and Saltburn. Although small in size, this popular town makes up for it in charm. Boasting a busy town square packed with independent cafes, micropubs, bars, restaurants and shops, you won’t tire of trying new places.

Located right on the coast, Marske also boasts a beautiful sandy beach. Popular for surfing, boating, fishing and windsurfing, you’ll often spot people in the sea in the distance. Marske isn’t as busy as its neighbouring towns Redcar or Saltburn so if you’d prefer somewhere a little quieter, this cosy town is definitely worth a visit.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

This charming Victorian spa town is home to long stretching sandy shores and a delightful town centre packed with independent eateries and bars. Home to the last remaining pier in Yorkshire, Saltburn ’s incredible Grade II* listed, cast-iron pier stretches 681ft into the sea giving you amazing views of the water.

Saltburn beach recently came 3rd in The 30 Best British Beaches by The Times so you can expect beautiful golden sands and surfers glittering in the distance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Saltburn is a great spot for surfing so hop on your board (or rent one from the surfing shop on the seafront) during your visit!

The quaint hamlet of Staithes is packed with character and history. You’ll find winding cobbled streets, mismatched cottages and high cliffs towering in the distance. Once one of the largest fishing ports in the North East, fishermen still fish here today so you’ll be able to try the most delicious seafood caught fresh from the North Sea.

Staithes was named one of Britain’s most beautiful seaside villages by The Telegraph and it’s no wonder why. The village is full of surprises. Head to the small beach known as the ‘Dinosaur Coast’ and you’ll find fossils upon fossils in the sand and the rock pools. Staithes is also hugely popular for art. There are painted illusions throughout the village so make sure you follow the ‘Painted Illusions Trail’ during your visit to see them.

Runswick Bay

With its sweeping bay and picture-perfect cottages, Runswick Bay is one of North Yorkshire’s prettiest spots. Located at the Northern end of the sandy bay, it’s becoming a firm family favourite for rock pooling, walking and fossil hunting.

The village itself has high soaring cliffs and narrow winding paths. As you walk along the seafront, there is an old thatched coastguard’s cottage which is believed to be one of the last thatched houses on the Yorkshire coast.

Just three miles down the coast from Whitby is the lovely little village of Sandsend . The village sits along a sweep of golden beach, which is divided by a stream and then runs into the sea. Standing on the shoreline, you can even see views of Whitby Abbey on clear days!

The village itself is the home of food. From beach shacks to tea rooms to seriously renowned restaurants, Sandsend boasts an array of fine food. Surprisingly you’ll also find two spas – one for dogs and the other for their owners – as well as an art gallery selling work by some of the region’s best artists.

Whitby is a hugely popular tourist destination and it’s easy to see why. With nostalgic seaside charm in abundance, you can dip in and out of arcades, try the local catch of the day at one of the fish restaurants or play on the sands of the coveted Blue Flag beach.

The town is also brimming with history. Visit Whitby Abbey which dominates the skyline in the distance and inspired Bam Stoker’s cult gothic novel Dracula. Be prepared to climb Whitby’s 199 steps up to the Abbey – this is one challenge visitors to the town cannot resist!

Robin Hood’s Bay

The old fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay is brimming with charm. A popular spot for walkers, it is the eastern end of the 190-mile Coast to Coast and it’s also a great stopping off point for those walking the Cleveland Way .

It’s like stepping into a different world when you visit Robin Hood’s Bay. Steep streets wind up and down from the clifftop to the beach. Cottages, shops and cafes line the cobbled streets. If you like spooky stories, take the Ghost Walk to hear all about the village’s past and the old tales which come with it.

With so many amazing places to visit in North Yorkshire, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Start planning on your coastal getaway today…

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What’s on in May 2024

As we head towards summer, there is so much to do across North Yorkshire, whether that is on our fabulous coast, the Dales and Moors or in our beautiful towns.

If you are looking to get out and about over the next few weeks here is a guide to what’s on across the county.

We can’t include everything here, so be sure to keep a look out for local events where you live.

If you are organising a major event in North Yorkshire, please tell us and we’ll do our best to include it in a future issue. Just email [email protected] . 

10 to 12 May 

Glampfest takes place at Scotton, near Knaresborough . A family festival with camping, live bands and entertainment all weekend. Day tickets are available too. 

Attractions include trade stands, street food, beer and cocktail bar, family fun and games, two stages of live music and children's workshops. There is also a forest school, silent disco, kids disco, circus skills and craft workshops and a wellness tent.

More details are on the Glampfest website .

With the support of Richmond School, The Twiddling Thumbs band and local sponsors, a fundraising Ceilidh is being held in the sixth form hall at Richmond School on May 18.  The tickets are £12.50 available on Ticketsource or at the door. The time is 7.30pm to 10.30pm and a bar will be provided. All proceeds to go to Homestart, Richmondshire, for the benefit of the users of the service.

18 and 19 May

Taking place on Saturday and Sunday, the Whitby Fish and Ships Festival is back for 2024 promising a lively celebration of Whitby’s rich fishing heritage. 

See live cookery demonstrations from top local chefs and fish craft demonstrations alongside incredible live music from local bands and sea balladeers. There will be plenty of family activities and entertainment, local exhibitors and much more.

The festival is centered around Dock End and Endeavour Wharf, while there is music at Whitby Bandstand on Pier Road.

The annual Yorkshire Country and Game Fair takes place at Scampston Hall, Malton YO17 8NG this weekend from 9am to 5pm.

Experience all that the countryside has to offer, from a vast array of country sports with loads of ‘have-a-go’ opportunities, to fine foods and animals.

For ticket information and booking visit the Outdoorshows website .

A guided nature journaling workshop is being held in a stunning woodland setting by Wild Creatives. Perfect for beginners, it is taking place at Raincliffe Woods, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO12 5TD. Nature journaling is a time-honoured practice that combines art, science, and personal reflection. It's a way to connect with nature on a deeper level, enhancing your observation skills while expressing your creativity. The workshop is perfect if you would like to deepen your understanding and connection to nature. Priced from £20, for more details visit the event website.

YMCA Yorkshire Coast presents a Celebration of YMCA at YMCA Theatre, St Thomas Street, Scarborough from 7pm. Celebrating the very best of youth talent and achievement, the Celebration of YMCA showcases the work that YMCA Yorkshire Coast does across the year. Pay what you feel.

A coffee morning organised by Thirsk Yarnbombers in aid of Herriot Hospice will be held at Thirsk and Sowerby Town Hall, Westgate, Thirsk YO7 1QR. It runs from 10am until noon.

A chance to encounter vice and virtue across North Yorkshire is on offer to those who take up a rare opportunity at the County Record Office next month.

The annual Archives at Dusk event is a fascinating free invitation to delve into the past and discover some little-known facts from the county’s past. 

Expert staff will explore expressions of faith through a variety of Anglican, Methodist and Quaker records and look at acts of murder and wrongdoing from long ago through the North Riding Quarter Sessions, coroners, police and workhouse archives.

There will also be a number of special guests at the event which takes place between 6.30pm and 8pm at the North Yorkshire County Record Office, Malpas Road, Northallerton DL7 8TB. Entry is free and there is no need to book. Free parking is available on site and nearby.

24 to 26 May

Everything Electric powered by Fully Charged is coming back to the Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate for the second time.

Experience a fun-filled, knowledge-packed, festival of electrification with thousands of EV test drives, over 50 live panel discussions, live cookery demos, test ride e-bikes, scooters and skateboards. You can also find out about the latest concept EVs coming to market, commercials vehicles and the latest home energy technologies. For more information and tickets visit the Everything Electric website .

Richmond Bowls Club is holding a Big Bowls Bash . This is your chance to come along and try your hand at outdoor bowling on their prizewinning green. Bowls and shoes available along with instructions. Learn how to keep fit and make friends over a cup of tea. The event takes place between 10am and 4pm at the club in Ronaldshay Park. For more details, call 07776 300868 or email [email protected] .

Easingwold Summer of Music gets underway with the popular York-based singer-songwriter, Simon Snaize, returning with his own very popular and soulful style of pop and rock classics. Taking place in Easingwold town centre, the event is free and runs from 1pm to 3pm.

25 and 26 May

Hambleton District Show is being held at Sutton Park, Sutton-on-the-Forest, York YO61 1DP. The largest horse show in the North of England, it was established more than 25 years ago at The Barugh, Carlton Husthwaite. It has now grown to a show with more than 200 classes with qualifiers for shows such as Royal International Horse Show and the Horse of the Year Show.

25 to 27 May

Set across the streets of Yorkshire’s Food Capital, Malton Food Lovers Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire's finest produce and cooking.  Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar, live music and much more.

25 May to 8 June

Swaledale Festival returns with a broad selection of the finest musicians and artists from Yorkshire, elsewhere in the country and around the world. There will be a large number of hands-on events such as workshops, walks and craft demonstrations, with a focus on participation, landscape and climate change. For more details, call 01748 880018 or email [email protected]

25 May 25 to 2 June

Get ready for a right royal knees-up at Scarborough Castle’s Kids Rule events this May half-term. Visit the historic site for hands-on activities and fresh-air family fun. The event runs between 10am and 5pm. For ticket details, visit the Scarborough Castle website .

A reptile experience with Lilly's Reptile and Rescue takes place at the Scarborough Flyer, 4, St Nicholas Street, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO11 2HF. It costs £2 per person with all money raised going back to Dave and Lilly to the centre. Children should be aged five and over. Come and meet the reptiles and even have a photo with them.

York’s No1 Busker, That Guy Si, will be taking part in Easingwold’s Summer of Music from 1pm to 3pm in the town’s Marketplace. Expect upbeat rock, pop and soul classics.

Snake Davis and Gareth Moulton team up for an evening of mellow music infused with pop, rock, jazz and soul at The Georgian Theatre Royal. The pair reckon it is the ideal venue for them and will enjoy performing in such an intimate space. Tickets cost £18 and are available from the Box Office on 01748 825252 or online at the Georgian Theatre Royal website .

Until 1 June

Skipton Camerata presents Soundscapes, an immersive audio-video installation created by projection artist Michaela French and composer Ben Crick showcasing the diverse scenery of the Yorkshire Dales. Projected inside a purpose-built hemispherical dome at Skipton Town Hall, Soundscapes combines 360-degree videography with a symphonic soundtrack inspired by the landscape.

The story behind the music-and-nature installation, the design and construction of the dome, and the health and wellbeing reasons that motivated the project are told in the enclosing exhibition.

Soundscapes is funded by Arts Council England, Skipton Building Society, the Tarn Moor Estate and Northumbria University.

The gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Entry is free.

Rusty Pegs, the well-known York band known for their country, pop, rock and folk covers will be performing in Easingwold’s Marketplace as part of the Summer of Music . Expect tunes from Dire Straits to Dolly Parton and everything in between. The event is free and runs from 1pm to 3pm.

Hovingham Village Market is a thriving, entirely volunteer run artisan market that champions local independent makers and producers in the Howardian Hills National Landscape. 

Held on the first Saturday of every month, except January, between 10.30am and 1.30pm and inside and around Hovingham Village Hall, the market attracts 40-plus friendly stallholders. Visitors can stock up on and treat themselves to food, drink, home and giftware, craftwork and artwork, jewellery, plants and flowers, and much more. 

For more details, follow The Hovingham Village Market on Facebook and Hovingham Village Market Instagram , and visit Hovingham Market website .

Easingwold Friends of Cancer Research are holding a plant sale from 10am to 2pm. Visit Easingwold Market Place where there will be a display of plants, crafts, knits and second-hand books to help raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Rock legends Status Quo are heading back to the Yorkshire coast for a headline show at Scarborough Open Air Theatre. The show will be the fourth time that singer Francis Rossi and the band have headlined the UK’s largest purpose-built open air concert arena. More details on the Scarborough Open Air Theatre website .

The Fun Dog Show is taking place at Thirsk Auction Mart on Blakey Lane, Thirsk YO7 3AB. Yorkshire vet Peter Wright is judging the show which features 11 classes. There is a goody bag for all entrants as well as rosettes to fifth place and lots of prizes. There will also be a raffle, tombola and cafe. The event is aid of Herriot Hospice. All dogs welcome. Registration is from 9.30 am with judging from 11am. The admission cost is £2 per class, £5 for three classes.

Join Vanessa Cook for a garden walk when she will show you the highlights of the garden in June. This will be an informal tour with the garden owner, who will provide you with plenty of tips on the best plants to grow to give you beautiful borders throughout the year. The event is located at Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens, Stewart Lane, Stillingfleet, York. Prices are £7.50 per adult and £2.50 for children. The walk starts at 2pm and will last about an hour. Places are limited.

Skipton will be honouring the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. There will be a Beacon Lighting in the Holy Trinity churchyard, as well as a service of remembrance.

There will be a coffee morning at Wetherby Town Hall , Market Place, Wetherby LS22 6NE hosted by the Royal British Legion to mark D-Day. The event will run between 10m and 2.30pm.

The Great Knaresborough Bed Race combines a gruelling athletic contest with a spectacular fancy dress parade of decorated beds and runners. It has been held annually on the second Saturday in June since 1966.

Set in the scenic and hilly terrain of Knaresborough, the bed race is held over a 2.4-mile course, through leafy parkland, up and down vertiginous climbs and a descent, through the Nidd Gorge, across cobbled streets and culminating in a swim through the waters of the River Nidd. 

The Little Bird Artisan Market takes place in Easingwold town centre between 9am and 2pm. It offers a diverse and quality shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers. The ideal market to come to should you wish to shop small and support local whilst soaking up the sense of community that is experienced on the day.

8 and 9 June

The UK’s largest tractor festival returns to Newby Hall and Gardens near Ripon. Visit Tractorfest and see more than 1,000 vintage and modern tractors and 600 stationary engines, commercial vehicles, cars, trucks and motorcycles. Visit the Newby Hall and Gardens website for ticket details.

The Filey Food Festival is based within the Evron Centre gardens and the beautiful Crescent Gardens offering superb sea views of Filey Bay. The free festival is home to more than 70 stalls showcasing the very best of Yorkshire foods as well as fantastic produce from outside the region offering choice, quality and great value.

D-Day will be remembered at Leyburn Methodist Church Hall, DL85BB, from 2.30pm. There will be a wartime singalong with Rebekah Austin and words of remembrance from Donovan Leeman. Tickets, priced £15, are available from wensleydale.org, Judith Clark on 07882 331421 or Colin Bailey 07711 211169. Proceeds are in aid of Blueboxt Creative and Performing Arts.

15 June to 4 August

Scarborough Art is an exciting combination of exhibitions and workshops taking place at various venues across Scarborough and beyond.

Part of the Scarborough Fair Festival, it is an opportunity for people to visit various different places and spaces around Scarborough to discover great creations and performances from across the creative community.

15 and 16 June

Witness life as it may have been in Skipton during the 14th century at Skipton Castle’s Tournee event . Re-enactments will take place between 10am and 5pm each day. Normal admission prices apply.

For the energised out there, the Richmond Aquathlon and Sprint Triathlon are bound to appeal. The Sprint Triathlon is great for both novice and experienced triathletes, with a 400-metre pool swim, a scenic – and undulating – 24-kilometre bike ride, finishing with a four-kilometre run alongside the River Swale. For further information, and to book your place on either event, visit Richmond Triathlon Club .

Easingwold Town Band will be performing both traditional and modern songs as part of the Easingwold Summer of Music festival . The free event runs from 1pm to 3pm in the town’s Marketplace.

Find out more

To find out about more events and activities around the county, go to the Visit North Yorkshire website .

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