Staithes & Runswick Bay
Cobbled Streets, Cosy Cafes and Sandy Beaches
Cobbled Streets, Cosy Cafes and Sandy Beaches
Staithes is a pretty coastal village a few miles north of Whitby. For generations Staithes has been home to industrious fishermen, braving the North Sea. It also has a long connection with artists and is home to one of the biggest art and heritage festivals in the north of England.
In a similar way to Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes village is split between the top and bottom of a steep bank. At the top of the village there are a handful of amenities, including a pub, cafe, car park and children’s play area. The bottom part of the village is home older, with alleyways and footpaths winding their way between the cottages. There is a choice of pubs, cafes, shops, art galleries and more. Plenty to keep visitors entertained!
Staithes has a small beach, protected by a harbour wall which you can walk along. Nestled between cliffs, Staithes has a rugged charm and is a popular destination.
Runswick Bay is a couple of miles south of Staithes. It is home to a beach which is regularly voted as one of the best in the country. Much smaller than Staithes, Runswick is a perfect picnic spot or location for a day at the beach. Both villages are definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the North Yorkshire coast.
Discover Staithes & Runswick Bay's Accommodations
If you're looking to spend some time in Staithes, then a holiday cottage could be the perfect accommodation. There are plenty to choose from.
The older part of the village, at the bottom of the bank, tends to be more popular. Lots of the cottages are smaller, having been built to house the villages fisher-families. Some houses are much larger, originally built by ship's captains. Whatever the size of your group, you're bound to find somewhere to suit.
Parking is limited in the old village, with most cars using the car park at the top of the bank. Vehicular access is possible to most cottages, but do not expect to be able to leave your car right outside the door.
Staying in one of Staithes holiday cottages will give you the full experience - a step back in time. There are a number of pubs, cafes and restaurants serving quality food and drinks. It's the perfect place to relax for a few days - whatever the time of year.
Book your break in Staithes & Runswick Bay today!
Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of the area's welcoming guesthouses
Staithes is home to a numer of excellent bed and breakfast establishments. They all offer something slightly different. You're bound to find a bed and breakfast to suit your taste and budget. What you can be certain of is a warm Yorkshire welcome, and a hearty breakfast!
Some of Staithes' bed and breakfasts are located in the bottom of the village. Others are at the top of the bank - so choose the location which suits you best.
Choosing to stay in a bed and breakfast gives you the flexibility to enjoy the area's wonderful restaurants and cafes. You'll also get to pick the brain of your host! They'll have lots of recommendations for things to do and other places to visit along the coast.
If you're walking the Cleveland Way, a stay in a Staithes bed and breakfast is a must. Rest your weary legs, enjoy a nice hot bath and a great breakfast to send you on your way.
Runswick Bay and the surrounding countryside is also home to a selection of bed and breakfasts. Whether you'd prefer to be in a town, village or out in the countryside - the choice is yours!
Come with your caravan or enjoy the outside by camping in Staithes & Runswick
If you love the great outdoors, camping could be the perfect way to explore the Yorkshire coast. There are a couple of chalet and caravan parks close to Staithes and Runswik Bay. There is also a small but perfectly formed campsite in Hinderwell.
If you're brining your own tent or touring caravan you'll find plenty of great campsites up and down this stretch of the coast. Camping gives great flexibility when it comes to exploring new places. And if you're coming to Yorkshire you won't be short of places to visit!
Some of the country lanes in the area aren't suitable for caravans, so please make sure you plan your journey carefully. Don't just follow the Sat-Nav!
Why not head over to our camping and caravan site page to find out a bit more about the local options. Each business offers something slightly different. Some are larger, with more facilities. Others pride themselves on their wonderful views or tranquil location.
And if you've never considered a caravan holiday before, why not look into it? Caravan parks are often far mor cost effective than holiday cottages, especially out of season.
A great place to visit with the family - we loved the beach and exploring the alleyways and passages throughout the village. It felt like we'd stepped back in time!- Jack
The Cleveland Way is a 109 mile National Trail walking route. Most people walk it in the 'clockwise' direction, starting in Helmsley. From there 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 Staithes and Runswick Bay before heading south to Whitby and then on to 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 Staithes why not head north to Skinningrove or Saltburn, or south to Whitby. Whichever way you head, you'll enjoy wonderful views of this stretch of rugged coastline.
The Cleveland Way is the most well known footpath in the area. But it's not the only option! Head inland you'll find a network of footpaths and bridleways connecting the hamlets and smaller villages in the area. Just a mile or two inland you'll find the villages of Roxby and Borrowby, Ellerby and Newton Mulgrave. These are all connected by way of country lanes and quiet footpaths.
If you fancy a longer walk, then Scaling Dam isn't too far away, either by foot or by car. If you choose to drive there is a public pay and display car park at the eastern end of the resevoir. It's a fantastic location for bird watching and there's a fairly accessible footpath all the way around.
Whether you head up or down the coast or inland, you won't be short of options. Arm yourself with an Ordnance Survey map and explore!
The Esk Valley sits just south of Scaling Dam. If you find your way up to Danby Beacon you'll enjoy some of the best views in the area, as the gently undulating moorland drops down dramatically into the Valley.
From Danby you can take footpaths along the Esk Valley to Commondale. At this point you could head back to higher ground, eventually arriving in Guisborough Woods. Here you're not far from Roseberry Topping - one of the most popular locations for walking in the area.
Wherever you head in this area you'll be certain to find some dramatic landscapes. From windswept moorland, to sheltered woodland, farmland and scenic coastline. The North Yorkshire coast really does have it all!
Remember, always plan your route carefully and if venturing alone let someone else know where you're going. Safety first!
Staithes, Runswick Bay and the surrounding countryside are home to some great hotels. Whether you're looking to by right on the coast, near the beach, or inland, there are several great options.
Yorkshire is well known for its hospitality. Staying in one of the area's hotels can be a fantastic way to experience the best of what this part of the country has to offer.Most of Yorkshire's hotels are keen to show off the area's finest produce. From quality bacon and sausages for breakfast through to the freshest seafood and locally grown vegetables. You'll find locally brewed beer in most bars too!
If you're travelling as a couple, a hotel break in Yorkshire can be excellent value - especially out of season. And don't limit yourselves to those in the larger towns and villages. Often the best of Yorkshire's hospitality industry is found off the beaten path.
Enjoy the best of the Yorkshire coast, with the added comforts that hotel accommodation brings.
Staithes is sheltered between tall, rocky cliffs. However, it is frequently battered by storms coming off the North Sea. Fortunately, boats in the harbour are protected by the harbour wall, which keeps the worst of the weather at bay. This also brings the added benefit of provider shelter to Staithes's sandy beach.Visitors are encouraged to park their cars at the top of the village. There's a large pay and display car park, so even at busy times there's space for everyone. It's a short walk down the hill into the village. To find the beach just keep following the main road, when you reach the water you know you've arrived!
It's a great beach for families to enjoy, especially with younger children. Sheltered from the surf and close enough to the village's pubs and cafes to find refreshments when needed!
If you venture to the east, over the harbour wall, you'll find a rocky beach. This area is great for rock pooling and fossil hunting. Be very careful near the cliffs though - they can be dangerous.In Runswick, the beach is regularly voted one of the best in the UK. Nestled in the sheltered bay, the beach runs along the coast, passing a small headland into Kettleness.
Runswick Bay is a popular destination for paddleboarders. It's also home to a small sailing club and is one of the most picturesque beaches on the Yorkshire coast.Car parking is limited. There's a small pay and display as well as on-street parking along the lane back towards Hinderwell. If you're planning a visit at a busy time aim to arrive early to get a space.
Staithes is a great location for families. As you reach the village, you'll find a children's play area at the top of the bank - right next to the car park. And, as you've just read, the beach is safe and sheltered whilst being close enough to cafes and public toilets to be a great base for a day out.
Older children will enjoy exploring the alleyways and footpaths which wind their way throughout the village. There are several gift shops as well as art galleries and great options for food and drink.
Why not take a short walk along the cliff path, you'll get some great views of the wonderful coastline. Boat trips also run from the harbour, both for sea fishing as well as wildlife watching. Did you know whales are regularly spotted off the North Yorkshire coast? And Dolphins too?
Staithes is home to three pubs - Captain Cook Inn, The Royal George and The Cod & Lobster. Captain Cook Inn is at the top of the village, next to the pay and display car park. The other two pubs are located at the bottom of the bank on the High Street. All serve food.
Whilst not in Staithes itself, the Fox & Hounds in Dalehouse is definitely worth a visit too.
Over in Runswick Bay, you'll find the Cliffemount Hotel, The Runswick Bay Hotel and the Royal Hotel all within a short walk of the beach. And let's not forget The Badger Hounds and The Brown Cow in Hinderwell - the village half way between Staithes and Runswick.
Some of Staithes and Runswick's pubs have outside space and sea views - perfect for whiling away a few hours on a sunny summer's afternoon. All have cosy bars, the ideal location to shelter from more wintry weather!
At the top of the village, just off the main road, you'll find Excelsior Fisheries, Staithes only dedicated fish and chip shop. It has a great reputation and is definitely worth a visit.
Of course, the pubs all serve fish and chips too - but it's not quite the same experience as a traditional fish & chip takeaway, something Yorkshire is famous for!
All of Staithes's pubs serve good food. This is Yorkshire, so portions are a 'healthy' size and in general there are plenty of options on the menu. There are also good options for children.
It's worth checking with individual pubs before heading out for a meal. Some dining rooms are quire small and can get busy. It's often best to book in advance where possible.
There are a number of cafes and take-aways in Staithes. They vary greatly in size and the food and drink options they offer - so have a look around and find somewhere which suits you.
If you do purchase take away food or drinks whilst visiting Staithes or Runswick Bay, please remember to recycle and dispose of any rubbish responsibly.
A selection of shops for you to pop round
Staithes is home to a range of independent shops and small businesses. There are a couple of art galleries featuring work by local artists. There are is also a number of gift and sourvenir shops on the High Street.
Food shopping is also an option in Staithes. There's a Co-op at the top of the village (with a cash machine) and also a fishmonger. At the bottom of the bank you'll also find a quality local butcher, a sweet shop and deli, amongst others.
