Filey beach is known for its endless golden sand and clear water. It’s a quieter spot to visit than the much busier Whitby.
This article will cover all you need to know about Filey beach and the best things to see and do there. Under one hour from Whitby, Filey is the perfect place to enjoy a break. This former fishing village is a popular seaside destination with a historic promenade, beautiful Edwardian architecture and a 5-mile sandy bay.

Filey beach
Filey beach is approximately five miles long, clean, perfect for beach games, building sandcastles, kite flying and relaxing in the sunshine. This makes it an excellent option for young families. The sea is generally calm and safe for swimming, although caution should always be taken.
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The 5-mile stretch of sand stretches from Filey Brigg, north down to Bempton Cliffs, home to an RSPB reserve. At low tide, a quarter-mile width of sand is exposed. Revealing plenty of good rock pools to explore along this stretch.
The beach is dog friendly however, dogs are restricted to specific areas on this beach from May 1st to September 30th.
Can you Swim at Filey beach?
Lifeguards patrol the beach during the summer; generally, it is safe to swim at Filey beach. Swimming is best when lifeguards are on duty and the water conditions are calm. Please check the local weather and tide conditions before swimming and follow any safety advice or warnings from lifeguards or beach officials.

Is there parking at Filey beach?
There are various parking options available though there is a charge for some, and they can get busy during peak times. There is also accessible parking. Availability, restrictions, and parking charges vary on location and time of day/year.
On-street parking: There are several on-street parking spaces available in Filey. However, some may have time restrictions or be reserved for permit holders only. Make sure to check the signs before parking.
Pay-and-display car parks: Filey has several car parks, including the Country Park car park, Station Avenue car park, Coble Landing car park and West Avenue car park. These car parks have varying rates and restrictions, so check before leaving your car.
Private car parks: Some hotels, holiday parks, and other businesses in Filey offer private car parks for their customers. If you’re staying at one of these places, check to see if they have parking available.
Facilities at Filey beach
Toilets: Public toilets are available across Filey and on the beachfront with accessible toilets. You will find all the public restrooms in Filey indicated here. Other facilities include a first aid point, deck chair, and beach hut hire.

The Beach Hut at Filey is located on Coble Landing and offers cold drinks, hot drinks, snacks, and hot food to take away with you and enjoy on the beachfront. Top tip the waffles here get great reviews! Perfect to enjoy after a seaside walk.
Things to do near Filey beach
Try a spot of fishing
Fishing is popular from Filey beach and Filey Brigg. Several fish species can be caught from the shore or by boat, including cod, bass, flounder, mackerel, and more. However, you may need a valid fishing permit and know local fishing regulations. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check with the local authorities or fishing clubs to ensure you have the necessary permits and are fishing according to any rules or guidelines.

Walk to Filey Brigg
Filey Brigg is a fantastic place for a walk. It’s a peninsula located north of the town centre. The towering cliffs here reach a height of 20 metres, and during low tide, it’s common to spot fossil hunters and fishermen. Due to its geological significance, Filey Brigg is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Local Nature Reserve open year-round with no admission fee.
While exploring the Brigg, watch for a stone sculpture with the National Trust’s acorn emblem. This symbolises the endpoint of two National Trails – the Yorkshire Wolds Way and the Cleveland Way. The complete circular trek around Filey Brigg covers about two kilometres. Local legends have it that the Devil created Filey Brigg after losing his hammer in the sea, while others say that the rocks were formed from the bones of a dragon.
Enjoy local attractions
Historical landmarks such as the nearby Flamborough Head Lighthouse are worth visiting, while The Crescent is a beautiful construction right next to the beach. Many royal visitors stayed in this part of the town back in the day. If you have young children, Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park is an ideal destination. Additionally, St Oswald’s, the nearby parish church, is a fascinating historical site that Charlotte Bronte used to frequent. With over eight centuries of history, the church features remarkable stained glass and stonework, making it a must-see location.

Visit Crescent Gardens
These gardens are in front of The Crescent, a charming row of Victorian townhouses. The gardens feature a variety of beautiful flowers and are an excellent spot for a picnic, especially during the summer months when live music performances take place on the bandstand. Additionally, visitors can enjoy free entry to these gardens, which are open every day.
Find more things to do in Filey here.
Where to eat and drink when visiting Filey beach
Inghams Fish Restaurant
What is a day at the beach without fish and chips? There are a few spots to get fish and chips in Filey. Inghams Fish Restaurant is popular with locals and visitors for eating in and taking away. They offer all the favourites and receive fantastic reviews for their high-quality food.

Boat Shed Filey
At The Boat Shed, pizza and gin are on the menu! Combined to create a unique addition to Filey’s traditional pubs and eateries. This venue is ideal for those seeking a night out with drinks or a meal, such as tapas or pizza. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service are perfect for locals and holidaymakers looking to unwind.
San Marco
San Marco is an exceptional Italian restaurant offering a selection of authentic Italian cuisine, from pizza to fish and vegetarian dishes. The ambience of the restaurant is unparalleled, making it a must-visit spot. San Marco prides itself on using authentic Italian recipes and offering friendly service.
Find 7 of the best restaurants in Filey here.
Places to stay in Filey
White Rose Guest House
Five minutes from the centre of Filey, Whitby Rose Guest House is a gorgeous place to stay, offering comfort and luxury. Rooms feature ensuite facilities, flat-screen TVs, fresh Egyptian cotton bed linen, environmentally friendly toiletries, tea trays, and hairdryers. Breakfasts here are fantastic and get great reviews. The promenade and beach are just a short walk from the accommodation, while Glen Gardens, the bowling green, and tennis courts are around the corner.
Crows Nest Caravan Park
Crows Nest Caravan Park is a campsite 2.5 miles from Filey with fantastic reviews. Located between Filey and Scarborough, this is a fantastic site to make your base. The site is well-maintained with lots of space and has sea views overlooking gorgeous Gristhorpe Bay and Scarborough Castle. It features an amenities block, a family bathroom and launderette, an indoor heated pool, lounge bar, family bar, play area and a supermarket. They have tent pitches, touring caravan pitches and motorhome or campervan pitches.
The Bay Filey
Located on the former Butlin’s holiday campsite, The Bay Filey is a dog-friendly resort south of the town centre. The resort enjoys a breathtaking beachfront setting and offers a variety of top-notch amenities, including its very own pub, the John Paul Jones public house. Additionally, The Bay Filey features a fitness centre, indoor pool, sauna, and bar and restaurant. The resort offers family rooms, while guest rooms have a flat-screen TV and comfortable seating. Each room at The Bay Filey also has bed linen and a private bathroom.
Filey beach offers natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, plenty to do nearby, and excellent amenities; it’s a must-visit destination for anyone after a coastal getaway. So, whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, explore the surrounding countryside, or enjoy a picnic on the sand, Filey beach is a great option. Let us know if you love to visit Filey beach and why in the comments.
Header image credit: Events Yorkshire, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
At the end of July last year (2022) The paddling pool on Filey sea front was closed.
We are planning another trip with our pre school grandchildren for next month,
please can you confirm if it has re opened as I can’t bare to see the disappointment on their little faces again this year.
I wish to visit Filey but would like to know if I can pay for parking with cash? I usually park and the country park.
I’ve never been to Filey but plan to move up there this summer. As a care nurse in Bridlington, I’m currently boxing what I need and shall be bringing my fishing rod. Do I need a permit or licence to fish in the sea?
Hi Paul. Typically, you do not need a license to fish into the sea.