Staithes
Staithes is a charming, traditional fishing village on the North Yorkshire Coast, it is the perfect place to enjoy some time beside the sea.
The North Yorkshire seaside town of Staithes is just 10 miles from Whitby, it embodies many of the reasons why seaside towns hold such appeal.
Once one of the busiest fishing ports on the North East coast, Staithes boasts a long proud history as the one-time home of famous Royal Navy captain and explorer, Captain James Cook. Staithes is approximately 22 minutes drive from Whitby along the coast.
There is so much to do in Staithes, for both young and old. Fans of art and history will love strolling through the pretty town’s narrow cobbled streets and paying a visit to the elegant Staithes Art Gallery.

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Things to do in Staithes
Staithes offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can explore the charming old village by wandering through its intriguing alleys and ginnels, or enjoy the beautiful scenery along the surrounding headland and the Cleveland Way walks. Don't miss the chance to visit the narrowest alley in the world, which measures just 18 inches wide! Each street you explore reveals a different side of Staithes, providing numerous opportunities to capture unique and quirky photographs of the area from all angles.
Remnants of Captain Cook’s time can be seen in many of the tourist attractions today, including Captain Cook & Staithes Heritage Centre. A recreation of the shop in which James Cook worked during his residency here, the museum is a treasure-trove of over 200 books, engravings, letters, medals and more, providing an insight into his incredible life and career, as well as into Staithes itself.
You can also visit Captain Cook’s Cottage and the Captain Cook Inn, a lovely pub/restaurant and hotel overlooking the sea. It is famous for its real ales and great food, including vegetarian and wheat-free options. Don’t forget to try their house ale, the Northern Navigator, brewed especially for the Captain Cook Inn by the nearby North Yorkshire Brewery.
History Of Staithes
Staithes is a magnet for artists who come to admire the beautiful coastal scenery, traditional fishing scenes and village ambience, and immortalise them on canvas. The advent of the railway in 1883 brought a host of artists to Staithes including Hannah Hoyland, Fred Mayor and Harold Knight. Many paintings from local and visiting artists are on display at the gallery throughout the year – look out for special exhibitions and showcases too.
Annual Events
Staithes hosts an array of events and festivals throughout the year.
Photo credit: Bryan Ledgard, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Latest Blogs & Articles
Our dedicated and talented writers are constantly researching the best Staithes content for our blog. You can read their latest work below.

What is Staithes Famous For?

Staithes Art and Soul: The Artistic Legacy of a Seaside Village
