We love the Yorkshire coast. And while popular hotspots Whitby, Scarborough, and Filey continue to draw in the crowds, the region is also home to several quieter and lesser-known hidden gems.
Offering you the chance to escape the bustle and discover pockets of pure, unspoilt beauty, these gems range from off-the-beaten-track bays to quaint, medieval fishing villages.
Here are a couple of Yorkshire’s best-kept coastal secrets to add to your little black book…
Runswick Bay
Nestled in a secluded cove about nine miles up from Whitby, you’d be forgiven for driving straight by Runswick Bay in search of northerly Staithes or Saltburn. But, boy would you be missing out! With a beautiful mile of bay, beach and rockface, it’s a paradise for surfers, nature enthusiasts and those simply in search of peace by the sea.
At low tide, the sandy beach makes an excellent base for sandcastle-building, picnics and paddling, while at high tide the jetty provides a perfect spot for kids to try their hand at rockpool crabbing. A diverse marine ecosystem is thriving here, with regular sightings of seals, dolphins and harbour porpoises. It’s also a crucial bay for the spawning of herring, sprat, cod and plaice.
Part of the Jurassic coast, Runswick is famed for its fossil-filled foreshore. Journey back to Earth’s distant past while on the hunt for ammonites, belemnites and marine reptile bones among the splitting rocks and scree slopes. Look out for regular fossil-finding events and tours with local experts to get the most out of your visit.
Looking for somewhere lovely to stay near Runswick Bay? There are two beautiful cottages at Grosmont Farm – each offering a cosy retreat for up to four people (and their dog) in a beautifully converted cow byer. Or, larger groups can take both cottages together. See 1, Grosmont Farm Cottage and 2, Grosmont Farm Cottage
Saltwick Bay
Steeped in historic significance and an absolute favourite route for keen hikers and ramblers, Saltwick Bay is an essential must-visit during your Whitby staycation. Looking out over the rugged North Sea, Saltwick is home to an astounding array of geological features, with subtle remnants remaining of the bay’s alum industry past, dating back to the mid 1600s.
Love a beautiful sunrise or sunset? You’ve found an award-winner here. Especially in the late spring and early summer months when the mirror-like reflections and coastal-shaped silhouettes are at their most exceptional in the early mornings or early evenings. Summer Solstice at Saltwick Bay is a particularly magical experience as the long days and low sun cast a warm, golden glow over the bay and its surrounding landscapes.
Part of the North Yorkshire Coast’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, wildlife conservation is high on the agenda around the bay. Puffins, cormorants, seals and gulls are all regularly spotted and photographed here, with amazing opportunities to capture the species in their natural habitats both inside and outside the water. Plus, dogs are welcome to roam on the sand all year round here, which is a real perk for pet-lovers who are often stung by seasonal restrictions in other coastal resorts.
Wondering where to stay on the Yorkshire coast while visiting Saltwick Bay? We have four stunning properties located in Sleights, just a short 10-minute drive from the coast. Ewelands House and Cowslip Cottage both sleep 6 people for a luxurious group stay, while Ewelands Retreat and Cowslip Retreat are stylish boltholes for two people – perfect for a romantic coastal break.
For those wanting to stay right in the heart of nearby Whitby, we have four chic apartments located close to the hustle and bustle. Choose from The Yellow Apartment, The Blue Apartment, The Green Apartment or The Pink Apartment.
Sandsend
Home to breathtaking beaches and superb surfing, Sandsend is a little more peaceful, private and romantic than its larger coastal neighbours. A small fishing village, you can find it a few miles north of Whitby on the coastal road out of Lythe. The vibe is quaint, laid-back and slow-paced, with cottage-style homes, cute boutiques and cosy cafés serving friendly coastal fayre. There’s also a scattering of local craft shops and art galleries to pick up unique souvenirs and treasured pieces to take home.
The Sandsend Beck is a small stream that trickles through the main village. Adding a peaceful charm to your visit, you can follow its ebb and flow towards the beach or perch beside it with an ice-cream while taking in the calming sounds and natural beauty.
Although its beach is on the smaller side, it’s a lovely spot for families to spend time building sandcastles, paddling or lapping up the gentle waves on a surfboard.
Searching for a luxury holiday home in the area? Try Home Farm Cottage for a stunning, dog-friendly retreat for up to eight guests, just 5-minutes walk from Sandsend Beach. Larger groups can enjoy Hillside – a stylish coastal retreat sleeping up to 22 people near Sleights.
Robin Hood’s Bay
There’s so much to love about Robin Hood’s Bay. Its oldy-worldy feel, winding cobbled streets and quaint cliffside cottages present a peaceful seaside retreat that’s perfect for disconnecting and stepping back in time. With its remote location, hidden coves and secluded beaches, it’s easy to imagine why it was favoured as a smugglers’ haven during the early 19th century!
Located on a key point on the Cleveland Way, it’s a welcoming stop off for hikers, who can be spotted enjoying the stunning views with mugs of tea or bags of chips from the Fish Box before continuing their route up to Whitby. It’s also an ideal spot for families looking for an uncrowded blend of beach frollicking, rock-pooling and casual beach café dining during summer holidays or winter breaks.
If you enjoy a slower pace, away from the crowds, then Robin Hood’s Bay is most definitely worth a visit during your coastal staycation in Yorkshire.
Hoping to find the perfect place to stay while visiting Robin Hood’s Bay? Green Bank House is a fully restored 3-bedroom Grade II listed holiday cottage sleeping up to six people in a fantastic location close to all the amenities.
We’re extremely proud of our curated range of Luxury Coastal Yorkshire Holiday Homes offering a range of self-catering accommodation for groups of two to twenty-two. If you’re looking for a specific Yorkshire Coast Getaway, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team who are always here to help.
