One of the best ways to appreciate Whitby’s scenery is to pack up a picnic and pick a spot with a beautiful view! Here is a selection of picnic spots in Whitby and the surrounding areas.
Whitby is perfect for a picnic, with beaches, moorland, and forests to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a more active day out, there are plenty of places to choose. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best picnic spots in Whitby and its surrounding areas so you can plan your perfect day out.
Never feed the seagulls!
To ensure a pleasant picnic experience for everyone, it’s important to:
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- Be mindful of others around you and keep noise levels to a minimum.
- Don’t leave any rubbish or food behind when you leave.
- Don’t bring pets without first checking if they are allowed.
- Don’t feed the seagulls or other wildlife.
- Make sure you’re in a public space and not on somebody’s property.
1. Whitby West Cliff
This is a lovely part of town with various activities and attractions. West Cliff has something special whether you want to explore the beach, take in the views, or admire the area’s intriguing history and culture.
West Cliff has plenty of spots ideal for picnicking above the North Sea. Additionally, you can also take advantage of the benches along the cliff.
After enjoying a picnic, you might want to visit Clara’s for a hot drink or ice cream while admiring the beach view. We highly recommend their hot chocolates!
Learn more about Whitby’s West Cliff here.
2. Pannett Park, Whitby
Pannett Park in Whitby is a perfect spot for a picnic. The park has beautiful gardens, a children’s play area, and plenty of open space to lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal with friends or family. The tranquil surroundings of Pannett Park provide a peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing picnic. Just watch out for seagulls and squirrels!
You can also visit the Whitby Museum and Art Gallery at Pannett Park. The museum and art gallery has an impressive collection of stunning artwork and historical artefacts dating back over a century. Whitby Museum is truly unique and fascinating, exhibiting the life of this historic coastal town from the Jurassic era to the present day.
Learn more about Pannett Park here.
3. Whitby Beaches
Whitby has several beaches great for a picnic, but if you’re looking for the best one, we recommend West Cliff Beach. It’s a lovely sandy beach with plenty of space.
Another great option is Tate Hill Beach, a quieter and more secluded beach that offers a peaceful setting for a picnic with benches on Tate Hill Pier. Both of these beaches are easily accessible and perfect for a picnic
Just watch out for seagulls, especially on the beaches! Keep food covered where possible, and don’t leave it unattended.
Learn more about Whitby’s beaches here.
4. Falling Foss
Falling Foss is a great spot for a picnic because of its cascading waterfall and surrounding woodland. The beautiful scenery provides a tranquil atmosphere in which to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Additionally, the area has plenty of space for picnics and walks, making it a perfect spot for a day out in nature.
Falling Foss Tea Garden is ideal for stopping for a hot drink or food. It is a gorgeous little cafe with picnic-style seating beside the waterfall. Just be mindful that you can’t take your food in.
Learn more about Falling Foss here.
5. Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay is a pretty fishing village in North Yorkshire. There are plenty of great spots in the village for a picnic, including the beach and the nearby cliffs with a few benches.
The beach provides a stunning backdrop for a picnic, with its sweeping views of the North Sea and the coastline. Alternatively, the cliffs offer a more secluded and peaceful spot for a picnic, with breathtaking views of the village and the sea.
In the Summer, there is often an ice cream van at Robin Hood’s Bay beach where you can get a treat after your picnic.
Learn more about Robin Hood’s Bay here.
6. Danby Lodge National Park Centre
Danby Lodge National Park Centre is ideal for a picnic, especially with its stunning location amongst the North York Moors. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery while eating your food.
The centre has ample space for picnics, and you can choose between sitting on the grass or using the picnic tables provided.
Additionally, the centre has facilities like toilets, a gift shop, nature trails, woodland trails, a play park and activities, making it a convenient location for a day out with family and friends.
Learn more about the Danby Lodge National Park Centre here.
7. Sneaton Forest
The forest is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It has several designated picnic areas with tables and benches, making it a lovely spot to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
Additionally, several walking trails and cycling paths are in the forest, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the area and work up an appetite before settling for a delicious picnic lunch.
Learn more about Sneaton Forest here.
8. Mulgrave Woods
Mulgrave Woods is a gem for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. It boasts miles of footpaths, streams, and waterfalls, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic and a refreshing walk.
The fresh air and beautiful views of the surrounding nature are perfect for a leisurely lunch. Finally, the woodland is well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable place to spend outdoors.
Learn more about Mulgrave Woods here.
9. Ruswarp
Ruswarp is a great place for a picnic because it offers a charming riverside picnic area with beautiful views of the River Esk. The tranquil setting and picturesque scenery make it a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy a lovely picnic together.
Before or after your picnic, you could try out Ruswarp Pleasure Boats. Here, you can spend some leisure time on the beautiful River Esk while spotting the local wildlife, including Salmon. Traditional rowboats are available for those wishing to take it easy on these quiet and sheltered waters, and canoes are available for those more active.
Learn more about Ruswarp here.
10. Mallyan Spout
The Mallyan Spout is a magical waterfall in North York Moors National Park. The area surrounding the waterfall is a popular spot for picnics. Additionally, several walking trails lead to and from the waterfall, making it a great place to stop and rest while exploring the North York Moors.
The Mallyan Spout waterfall is over 70 feet and flows down West Beck. It is accessible via a pathway behind the Mallyan Spout Hotel. These beautiful falls were a popular attraction for visitors during the Victorian era, well before Goathland gained fame as the location for the beloved Heartbeat TV series.
Learn more about the Mallyan Spout waterfall here.
Whether you want to spend quality time with family and friends or find somewhere pretty to enjoy your lunch, these picnic spots are worth visiting. So pack your basket, grab a blanket, and head to one of these spots!
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