Runswick Bay, Staithes and Saltburn
Surfers, foodies and rock-poolers will have a whale of a time in these seaside spots
If your prefer a hotel stay, The Runswick Bay Hotel offers scenic views from the top of the bay, while The Captain Cook Inn in Staithes, on the Cleveland Way, is a great base for exploring. Stay North Yorkshire has a selection of guest houses and cosy cottages to choose from around here, many of which are pet friendly so you don’t have to leave your pooch at home. We love No.1 @ Gill Street in Saltburn and its exposed brick feature walls – it’s perfect for a peaceful family break or couples getaway. Salt & Seaweed sleeps up to six guests in Runswick Bay and has a pretty terrace for outdoor dining. Boulby Grange Holiday Cottages are another great option – book Byre Cottage in Saltburn and treat yourself to a relaxing evening in the hot tub, or chill out by the fire pit.
Perfect Weekend
Visit the Captain Cook and Staithes Heritage Centre to discover more about the British explorer and navigator. Prefer to be hands on? When it comes to rock-pooling, it’s rich pickings here at the Dinosaur Coast (yes, that’s the official name for this stretch of the North Yorkshire coast). Taste The Wild run foraging courses at Staithes where you’ll forage in pools and gullies for the best seaweeds, shellfish and plants on the coast. If you’re lucky, you might also find Whitby Jet along the stretch but if you’d rather keep your hands clean, why not explore some art at Staithes Gallery? Or head for a spot of summer sipping or a bite to eat. Birdies Lounge is Saltburn’s newest bar, coming soon – we’ve taken a liking to their decor, inspired by VW campers. But, for now, enjoy a quality seafood supper at The Seaview Restaurant, along with fabulous views. Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies can catch some waves at Saltburn Surf School or Flow Surf School – novice or pro, everyone’s welcome to ride the waves here.
It’s impossible to visit Saltburn without admiring the Victorian pier – predictable, we know, but it’s true. Celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of this pier drew thousands of visitors to Saltburn in 2019. The Saltburn funicular is thought to be the oldest operating water-balance cliff lift in the UK, and while the cliff tramway remains closed for now (this unique ride takes you between the North Yorkshire clifftop town and the pier), a walk along the pier itself is just as picturesque.
