5 Best Villages on the Yorkshire Coast
Are you planning a trip to the Yorkshire coast? My guide to the best villages on the Yorkshire coast has everything you need to plan the perfect trip, including where to visit, the best cafes, and top tips for visiting this beautiful part of England.
With so many incredible places, choosing where to visit in North Yorkshire can be tricky. However, for guaranteed seaside vibes and bucket loads of charm, nowhere can beat the Yorkshire coast.
Part of England’s biggest county, the Yorkshire coast stretches for more than 100-miles, incorporating the coastal towns of Staithes, Robin Hoods Bay, and Whitby. As well as vast beaches, dramatic cliffs, and walks by the sea.
Driving along the coast, at first there’s little sign of the wonderful places to come – in fact, these coastal communities are the very definition of hidden gems. Often built at the foot of steep hills, the villages and towns along the Yorkshire coastline are firmly tucked away. Yet for those willing to make the effort to visit, you’re in for the most wonderful experience. Villages are a maze of narrow streets, cobbled roads, and historic harbours. Whilst pretty Yorkshire coastal towns are fringed with spectacular stretches of golden sand.
So, to help you plan a trip, I wanted to share the best places to visit along the Yorkshire coast. Plus the best things to do and see, and of course the best cafes to eat in.
How to visit the Yorkshire coast
Before we get started, here are some practical tips and essential things to know:
The east Yorkshire coast takes taking up most the coastline between the Tees estuary and Humber estuary.
The North York Moors National Park covers some 26-miles of the east Yorkshire coast.
Don’t be fooled by the size of the villages. Though small, they are amongst some of the loveliest in the UK – and you’ll want time to explore every nook & cranny.
The Yorkshire coastline covers a huge area and trying to see it all in just a few days is simply not possible. Personally, I recommend staying for a minimum of 3 days, whether on a road trip or from a base.
Or plan a number of slow day trips, depending on your home location.
The best way to get around is by car. This means you can also venture inland and experience the best of coast & countryside.
Some of the Yorkshire seaside villages ask visitors to park just outside, to avoid congestion. Most have dedicated paid parking just a short walk from the centre.
Once at your destination the best way to get around is on foot which means a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes!
There are also regular buses along the Yorkshire coastline, which stop at most of the villages and towns on this list. The starting point is usually Middlesborough, with regular services. Plan your Yorkshire coast journey by bus here.
Yorkshire coastal route
In all honesty, I only scratched the surface of the Yorkshire coast and I’ll visit again soon. However, if this is also your first time in this area then my itinerary is a good starting point. These are some of the best places to visit and things to do:
1. Saltburn-by-the-Sea
Our first stop on the Yorkshire coast and one of the most unique. Most famous for its cliffside lift, long pier, and all-round seaside vibes, Saltburn is a lovely place to visit. Especially wonderful on a sunny day, I’d make a beeline here for a walk by the sea.
Start your visit on the road high above the sea, following a line of once grand Victorian properties to a viewing platform. Here you’ll find the most magnificent views over the surrounding cliffs and the incredible pier below. Then follow the path downhill to a vast sweeping sandy beach. This is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll, plus, you’ll find plenty of ice-cream shops, cafes, and restaurants along the promenade. There’s also the opportunity to head out on a surf board in summer.
2. Staithes
One of my favourite places along the Yorkshire coastline is the tiny but unmissable village of Staithes.
Park above the village and wander downhill, where cobbled streets and a wonderful harbour await. Best known for its traditional cottages and their bright orange roofs, Staithes has a long history as a fishing harbour. The village itself is split into two parts – the first a meandering main street that leads to the sea. Whilst a lovely harbour is hidden in a sheltered bay, accessed from the village by a walkway hidden amongst the quaint cottages.
After you’ve explored Staithes, be sure to pop into Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom for a delicious lunch.
3. Sandsend
On a coastline blessed with beautiful seaside villages, Sandsend still manages to stand out as one the loveliest. The beach, views, and picturesque village are wonderful. Just three miles from Whitby, the best way to visit Sandsend is by a walk along West Cliffs Beach. Find details here.
4. Whitby
Historic Whitby is often considered the jewel in the North Yorkshire coast crown. A busy town, it’s certainly a different experience to the charming villages along the same coastline. However, don’t let that put you off because Whitby is a lovely place with tons to see and do – not least its beaches, abbey, colourful marina, and coastal walks. In all honesty, I didn’t give myself enough time to explore the Whitby coast and can’t wait to go back.
It’s also the only Yorkshire coastal town that has a train station, which makes it easier to access than most (though do be aware this isn’t a mainline station and you’ll likely have changes). Plan your train journey here.
5. Robin Hoods Bay
A long history of smuggling and press gangs only adds to the mystery of Robin Hoods Bay.
Easily the most special thing about Robin Hoods Bay is you’re never quite sure what to expect – and around each corner is yet another picture-postcard spot. Tucked away at the bottom of a hill, like any of the Yorkshire coast villages Robin Hoods Bay is best discovered by simply wandering. Built by the sea, it is a labyrinth of tiny streets, cobbles, stairways, dead ends, twisting alleys, hidden gardens, and narrow lanes.
Unlike some of the smaller fishing villages along the Yorkshire coast, there’s tons to see and do in Robin Hoods Bay and you’ll absolutely want more time to explore. Amongst the village are a handful of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Plus, along the coast you’ll find walks and stunning beaches.
After you’ve explored, choose lunch or dinner in Brambles Bistro.
Walk the Yorkshire coast trail
If you’re looking for an adventure then much of the Yorkshire coast can be visited on the Cleveland Way – a long distance 100-mile walking trail.
The trail starts inland, but it meets the coast at the seaside town of Saltburn. From here you can choose shorter and more easily accessible sections between each of coastal village, returning on public transport. Find full details of the walk here.
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