Robin Hood’s Bay
Explore Robin Hood's Bay
Explore Robin Hood's Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay is a beautiful seaside village on the Yorkshire coast. Bay is steeped in a rich history of seafaring and smuggling. Its quaint cottages and ancient alleyways make it a popular destination with visitors. There are several cosy pubs, many serving food. Several take-aways and cafes are in the old part of the village, at the bottom of the steep bank, offering all kinds of refreshments.
Robin Hood’s Bay is about 6 miles south-east of Whitby. There’s plenty to see and do in the village, and the surrounding countryside provide lots of opportunities for walking and cycling. The beach runs south towards Ravenscar, passing Boggle Hole. It is a mixture of sand, turning to rocky scars which extend out into the North Sea.
There are two car parks at the top of the village, which is also served by the Arriva X93 bus service. Robin Hood’s Bay makes the perfect destination for a day out – or a longer visit. There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy. Equally, for a more grown-up visit you’ll find the cosy pubs and delicious food a welcome comfort after a bracing walk along the Cleveland Way.
Scroll down to find out more about this wonderfully historic village. We’ve included some of our recommended attractions and activities.
Discover places to stay in the beautiful Robin Hood's Bay
Robin Hood's Bay offers a wide range of self-catering holiday accommodation. From cosy cottages to large houses - there's something for groups of all sizes. Bed and breakfasts are a great choice for a short break.
However, self-catering accommodation offers greater flexibility - it can be a better choice for a longer trip. Nestled at the bottom of Bay Bank, a picturesque cottage will be a perfect base from which to explore the area.
You'll have easy access to local pubs, cafes and shops. The beach, footpaths and other amenities are all within easy reach of Bay's holiday lets.
Book your break in Robin Hood's Bay today!
Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of the area's welcoming guesthouses
Bed and breakfast accommodation is widely available in Robin Hood's Bay. You'll also find plenty of options in the surrounding area - Fylingthorpe, Raw and on some of the nearby farms.
Many of Bay's bed and breakfasts are in the grand Victorian houses of sea captains and merchants. Their large rooms and views of the surrounding countryside make for wonderful accommodation.
Some establishments are family and pet friendly. Others are less so, but all offer a warm welcome, comft bed and a hearty breakfast! Whether you're travelling as a single person, couple or larger group, Bay's B&Bs have much to commend them.
Lots of Robin Hood's Bay's bed and breakfasts make a point of showcasing some of Yorkshire's best local produce. From locally sourced free-range eggs, to delicious sausages and bacon from the area's finest producers. Continental alternatives are always available. And, importantly, most owners are perfectly able to adapt their menus to dietary requirements as well as offering tasty options for vegetarians and vegans.
Come and stay on one of Bay's wonderful campsites
Discover Some of Bay's Finest Accommodation
There are two options for camping and caravan sites within easy reach of Robin Hood's Bay. Hooks House Farm overlooks Bay, Fylingthorpe and the surrounding countryside. Located at the top of the hill on the B1447, half a mile or so from the village. It's a beautiful location, but smaller and with fewer facilities than Middlewood Farm.
Middlewood Farm is located near the village cricket field. It's a short walk along footpaths or quiet lanes down into Robin Hood's Bay itself. Middlewood Farm has two fields for tents, caravans and campervans. But, because of it's more sheltered and central location it is often very busy - so book early!
...a fine bay between Whitby and Scarborough...- The Old Sailor (Matthew Henry Barker, 1790-1846)
Leo Walmsley (1892-1966) grew up with a deep and abiding love for the moors and the coast of the area which expressed itself in his "Bramblewick" books written in the 1930s. These stories immortalised the local fishing community as well as Robin Hood's Bay itself.- The Walmsley Society
The Cleveland Way is a 109 mile National Trail walking route. Most people walk it in the 'clockwise' direction, starting in Helmsley. The route heads west, out to the Yorkshire coast at Saltburn-by-the-Sea. It then begins following the cliff-tops and beaches of North Yorkshire.
On its way south it passes through pretty villages such as Staithes and Runswick Bay. It also runs through larger towns including Whitby and Scarborough. Ultimately the trail ends in Filey, a small town south of Scarborough.
It has long been a favourite with walkers and trail runners. It can be easily broken up into sections - very few tackle the entire length in one go! From Robin Hood's Bay why not head north to Whitby (around 8 miles), or south to Ravenscar (about 5 miles). Whichever way you head, you'll enjoy wonderful views of this stretch of coastline.
The Cinder Track is the disused railway path, running from Whitby to Scarborough. It is a well-used path, suitable for walkers, cyclists and even pushchairs in places.
Leaving Whitby it heads out of town, passing through Stainsacre and Hawsker. As the track approaches Robin Hood's Bay it affords stunning views across to Ravenscar. The route of the original railway line passes through what is now the Village Hall car park. Between Robin Hood's Bay and Fylingthorpe, the track heads inland. Passing through Boggle Hole, it starts the ascent to Ravenscar village.
From Robin Hood's Bay, a walk in either direction (towards Whitby or Ravenscar) is recommended. You'll enjoy some wonderfully unspoilt countryside. Despite being well-used, the Cinder Track is a quiet and peaceful location. Sheltered in part by ancient woodland it provided a haven for wildlife.
In the surrounding countryside, you'll also find footpaths in all directions. Some make enjoying both the Cleveland Way and the Cinder Track easier by linking the two. Others head off onto the higher land behind Robin Hood's Bay.
A favourite route for keener walkers is to walk up to Fylinghall School. From the school's car park, footpaths lead up to an old water wheel and then beyond to the exposed moor. Other options include crossing the fields from the Quater Deck in the Dock. Take the steps from the Quarter Deck, then turn right. At the bottom of the steps turn left, then follow the path. You'll pass through some sheltered woodland before heading across the fields to Middlewood Lane.
Wherever you go, you're bound to find stunning views! There are numerous locations for picnics or to spend time just enjoying nature.
Robin Hood's Bay is home to a selection of hotels - The Bay, The Grosvenor and The Victoria. Each offers something different.
The Grosvenor is located right at the top of the village, near the Village Hall Car Park. They have 10 rooms, a public bar and serve good, hearty meals.
The Victoria Hotel occupies an enviable location. On the cliff top at the top of Bay Bank, overlooking the Bay itself. Probably the most luxurious of Bay's hotels, with a spacious bar, restaurant and gardens.
At the bottom of the Bank, right next to the beach, The Bay Hotel offers a small selection of rooms and good food.
Robin Hood's Bay beach is one of the most diverse in the area. To as you walk down the slipway, from the Dock, you'll find a mixture of rocky scars and sand. The scars which protrude out into the North Sea are home to a wide variety of small sea creatures, nestled in rock pools. Look out for starfish, sea anemones, crabs and small fish. Be aware that some of the pools are deeper than they look - so be careful! You'll also enjoy the expanse of sand, beneath the sea wall. A great space for flying kites, playing games or building sandcastles.
If you head south, you can walk down the beach to Boggle Hole. There's a Youth Hostel with an excellent cafe which is open to non-residents. Passing Boggle Hole the next stop is Stoup Beck. Arguably this is the best section of sand between Bay and Ravenscar!
Provided the tides are in your favour, it is possible to walk all the way to Ravenscar. Here you'll find a seal colony nestled at the bottom of the cliff. Beware though, they're quite grumpy!
In recent years, Robin Hood's Bay has become a popular spot for Stand Up Paddleboarding. However, it remains the perfect beach for a traditional seaside break. With donkey rides, ice creams, paddling, sandcastle building, sunbathing and much more to enjoy!
Remember, always check the tide times.
Robin Hood's Bay is a fantastic location for families. The village is very family-friendly. Most pubs have family rooms and places offering food are often well-used to catering for children.
At the top of the Bank, you'll find a well-maintained childrens' play park. It features an amazing climbing frame in the shape of a ship! There's a second playpark in Fylingthorpe, near the village shop.
The beach is, of course, very child friendly. Be careful to mind the tide times and beware sharp rocks and deep rock pools. And for those whose children enjoy a walk, you'll find hours of fun exploring the footpaths and trails.
There's a good selection of gift shops, sweet shops along with cafes and take-aways to keep you fuelled up. Robin Hood's Bay's rich history will provide ample intrigue as you explore the village. Why not visit the village museum, or go on a ghost walk and discover some of Bay's hidden secrets!
Bicycle hire is available in Hawsker (only a couple of miles away). Older children may well enjoy the taste of freedom - navigating the Cinder Track up to Ravenscar.
Whatever the size of your family or age of your children, you're bound to find plenty to enjoy in Robin Hood's Bay.
Robin Hood's Bay is home to five pubs, with another situated a mile up the road in Fylingthorpe. The Fylingdales Inn has a large beer garden, childrens play area and car park. They serve good food and are situated away from the bustle of Bay!
The Grosvenor Hotel has a large public bar, serve good food and also have some outside seating. The Grosvenor is near the Village Hall car park, opposite Robin Hood's Bay tennis courts.
The Victoria Hotel is at the top of Bay Bank. It has a good sized outside space, with amazing views. There is a large bar as well as a seperate restaurant space.
The Laurel is the smallest of the pubs, get in early if you want a seat! It's at the foot of the bank - and a firm favourite amongst locals.
The Dolphin is on King Street, with a smaller public bar but large family/dining room. They also have a couple of benches on the street outside.
Finally The Bay Hotel is in the Dock, right next to the beach. Food is served here too, they have a couple of bars as well as a family room.
As an added bonus, Smugglers is also home to a small but perfectly formed bar. Check it out next time you're in the village!
Robin Hood's Bay has a long history with fish - being home to a small fishing fleet even to this day. Although, not so much fresh fish is caught here as there used to be.
Robin Hood's Bay has a couple of fish and chip shops. The Fish Box is located on the Bank. It's operated by one of Whitby's most popular fish and chip businesses. They have some inside seating with great views over the Bay, as well as picnic benches outside.
At the bottom of the Bank, in the Dock you'll find Mariondale Fisheries, Bay's original chip shop. It's always busy in the summer - being close to the beach and on the route back to Middlewood Farm.
Plenty of reviews are available online for both. If you're in Robin Hood's Bay for a few days, why not try both!
Robin Hood's Bay's pubs and restaurants are well-loved by locals and visitors alike. With at least 5 pubs to choose from within the Bay itself and a selection of restaurants, you'll be spoilt for choice.
Whether you're looking for a hearty bar meal in a cosy pub, or something a little fancier, Robin Hood's Bay has it all. Most of the pubs serve a decent range of food (The Laurel being the exception). They're used to serving families and many are accomodating towards dogs - especially those without outside space.
It's well worth checking menus online, but be aware that these aren't always entirely accruate! It's also worth noting that most pubs and restaurant offer a good number of daily specials. A lot of fresh produce is available locally, so pubs and restaurants often aim to make the most of that.
Robin Hood's Bay has its fair share of cafes and takeaways. From the range of picnic items available in the village shop at the top of the bank, to the new coffee hut on the Quarter Deck. In the old village, at the bottom of the bank, you'll find quite a choice of food and drinks available.
Tea, Toast and Post on King Street has become a firm favourite. Not least because they have a reasonable amount of seating indoors, making it a welcome destination in the cooler months! Also worth checking out is The Cove on Chapel Street.
There are a couple of other small cafes in the bottom of the village, as well as Muir Lea Stores, a general store. Whether you're looking for a hot chocolate with all the trimmings, a quick sandwich or a slice of cake, you'll have plenty of choice.
A nice selection of shops for you to have a look around
Robin Hood's Bay is home to a number of small shops. From the village Post Office and general store at the top of the bank to the unique shops which nestle in the old village. You'll have plenty of choice when it comes to finding a souvenir of your trip to Bay!
Halfway down Bay Bank you'll find Jessica Hogarth's shop. Jess is a local illustrator who has found success with her quirky and attractive style. Her shop is a new venture for 2020 - it's definitely worth checking out.
At the bottom of the Bank you'll find a jet shop, a couple of sweet shops, another general store and other hidden gems. Visiting Berties of Bay on Chapel Street is a must - they continue to expand their range of quality heritage clothing.
Robin Hood's Bay has long been the home of those with an independent and community-minded spirit. This is reflected to this day in the kinds of businesses that call Bay home!
