Local Area
North Yorkshire, with its rolling moors, market towns, and quaint fishing villages, is a world of adventure waiting to be discovered.
Explore the local area
North Yorkshire towns and villages
North Yorkshire is a picturesque county, encompassing a variety of charming towns and villages. The region is known for its stunning countryside, rolling hills, and historic landmarks, which attract visitors from around the world. Many of these North Yorkshire towns and villages are just a short drive from Whitby and can be reached by public transport from Whitby town centre, making it an ideal base to explore all that North Yorkshire has to offer.
Whitby
With its picturesque harbour, winding cobbled streets, and dramatic cliff-top views, Whitby has long been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This historic town is steeped in rich maritime history, with a fascinating past that includes connections to Captain Cook, whaling, and fishing. Its natural beauty has also inspired writers and artists for centuries, including Bram Stoker who famously wrote parts of Dracula while staying in Whitby. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break by the sea, a cultural adventure, or a taste of Yorkshire hospitality, Whitby has something for everyone.
Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay is a charming fishing village on the North Yorkshire Coast. Whether you’re looking to find its ancient fossils, discover hidden rock pools, or take advantage of its natural beauty for an outdoor adventure—be it walking, hiking, cycling or simply admiring the view—Robin Hood’s Bay provides an idyllic setting for visitors from all walks of life. With its sandy beach and spectacular ocean panoramas, this picturesque spot promises an unforgettable experience.
Staithes
Staithes is a small but wondrous fishing village situated on the Yorkshire Coast. The town has so much to offer visitors, such as galleries, trails, festivals, harbour views, rock pools, sandy beaches, and local pubs. What’s more, Staithes is famed for being the childhood home of the renowned Royal Navy captain and explorer James Cook. So, there’s no shortage of activities and exploration opportunities that make a visit here truly magical.
Sandsend
Sandsend Beach on the Yorkshire Coast is a sight you won’t want to miss. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Whitby, where you can view Whitby Pier and Whitby Abbey. Not to mention the beach itself, which offers stunning sunsets and plenty of rock pooling opportunities for those young at heart. So, stroll into history by visiting the beach, known for its extensive collection of prehistoric fossils and other mysterious ancient artefacts found along the shoreline. There’s no better place than Sandsend to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Saltwick Bay
Saltwick Bay is an excellent site for discovering fossils, reptiles, and Whitby Jet. Its stunning geological features have made it a popular destination for visitors across the UK. Located on the East Coast of Yorkshire, Saltwick Bay offers beautiful views of the North Sea and surrounding countryside. Something here, from tiny fishing villages to rugged cliffs and hidden bays, captivates everyone’s imagination. Take a short walk from Whitby to experience this stunning natural wonder.
Goathland
Goathland is a beautiful moorland village and civil parish on the eastern edge of the North York Moors National Park. It’s an ideal place for walkers, history buffs and holidaymakers. The village is 500 feet above sea level and has a history from Viking times. The name Goathland is a corruption of ‘good land’. Alternatively, it may come from ‘Goda’s land’, Goda being an Old English personal name.
Runswick Bay
Runswick Bay, located along the Yorkshire Coast, is a stunning destination for locals and tourists. From relaxing on its picturesque beach to exploring its red-roofed fishing cottages, Runswick Bay has it all. Kids will love the soft sands and rocky cliffs that dot the bay, with plenty of fossils scattered around for them to discover! Couples or families looking for a quiet escape from their everyday lives need to look no further than this beautiful part of England.
Glaisdale
Glaisdale is a quaint hillside village on the edge of the majestic North York Moors National Park. Established in the 19th century, Glaisdale was once a thriving mining village and has since become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and tourists alike. So, whether taking on Wainwright’s famous Coast to Coast Walk, biking or motorcycling through the winding roads and picturesque landscape of the North York Moors, or simply searching for a tranquil setting to explore with family, Glaisdale provides an unforgettable experience.
Scarborough
Scarborough is a pretty seaside town that appeals to visitors of all ages—setting the record for being the most significant holiday resort on the Yorkshire Coast. Scarborough is vibrant and diverse and has abundant activities to cater to all age groups and tastes.
Ruswarp
The gorgeous village of Ruswarp rests in the Esk Valley, just a mile south of Whitby. Its borders on the North York Moors National Park, atop a steep hill that descends to the River Esk. The name Ruswarp is derived from “Risewarp,” which translates to “silted land overgrown with brushwood”. This picturesque village lies within the Scarborough borough of North Yorkshire.
Saltburn by the Sea
This charming seaside resort has retained its unique atmosphere through the centuries. Located in North Yorkshire, south of Hartlepool and bordered by the impressive Hunt Cliff, Saltburn by the Sea has been a famous coastal town since the Victorian era. The town is considered one of the best surfing spots in the UK, with several national events held annually. If you are not a water sports addict, you can still appreciate its long beach, restored Victorian treasures, lush gardens, and dynamic food scene.
Filey
Filey was a former fishing village and is now a popular seaside destination with a historic promenade, beautiful Edwardian architecture and an impressive 5-mile sandy beach. Families love Filey, and as the beach is so long, it always seems quiet, even at the height of summer, so there should be plenty of space to stretch out. To the north of the beach, Filey Brigg is perfect for scenic walks and birdwatching, while the town centre has plenty of things to see and do.
Pickering
Pickering is an ancient market town in North Yorkshire with historic buildings, quaint antique stores, independent cafes, and many attractions. With only 7,000 residents, Pickering is a reasonably small town with a huge personality. Pickering is a bustling and vibrant market town which is so worth a visit.
Port Mulgrave
Port Mulgrave, located midway between Staithes and Runswick Bay on England’s Yorkshire Coast, is the perfect destination for exploring. Its former name Rosedale had to be changed to avoid confusion with the ironstone mines and ironworks of the same name in the North York Moors. The current title – Port Mulgrave – pays homage to the local landowner, the Earl of Mulgrave.
York
York is a gem of a city and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore its cobbled alleys and haunted pubs or indulge in Victorian tearoom hopping, remember to check out the unmissable Minster when you’re there, too. Shopping is an enjoyable experience here as plenty of unique boutique stores offer something special. The City of York lies at the junction of the River Ouse and Foss, within the Vale of York; it will surely be a trip you won’t forget.
Malton
From delicious cuisine to the stunning countryside, Malton is an ideal destination for those looking to experience all Yorkshire offers. The picturesque town has a wealth of independent shops and local markets filled with unique crafts, while homely accommodations provide comfortable stays. So whether you’ve come for the food, shopping or even for some peace, you can be sure that Malton will not disappoint!
