Robin Hood’s Bay has transformed itself from a fishing and smuggling haven into a tourist attraction. Even though it’s a small fishing village, there are plenty of things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay.
Robin Hood’s Bay is a small village with a big personality. With cliffs, winding streets, and nautical-themed cottages, this truly magical location is a popular destination for visitors worldwide. As the locals call it, Bay Town might be small, but there are so many memorable things to do here. Here are our favourite things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay.
Visit the Old Coastguards Station
Located right on the sea’s edge at Robin Hood’s Bay, the Old Coastguards Station is perfect for anyone who would like to explore and learn about what makes this part of the Yorkshire coast unique. They have hands-on models, fascinating displays, and so much to learn about.
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There is a rock pool with spot shore crabs, hermit crabs, blennies, winkles, sea anemones, prawns, and other sea creatures to explore. Regular talks on the creatures in the rock pool and other exciting topics are held here, too.
The shop in The Old Coastguard Station sells a variety of gifts, books, and National Trust products. There is also a cafe selling hot and cold drinks, light bites, ice creams and cakes to eat in or take away
Learn more about The Old Coastguards Station here.
Learn about its history at Robin Hood’s Bay Museum
History is also a big draw to Robin Hood’s Bay. Those who love history can stop by Robin Hood’s Bay Museum. There are fishing, shipping, history, and geology displays. You can also learn about the shipwrecks that used to be a common occurrence in Robin Hood’s Bay.
You can even see a replica of a smuggler’s house. This will give you a better idea of how people managed to smuggle goods from one home to the next. Robin Hood’s Bay was mainly known as a fishing and smuggling village in its early years. With steep cliffs lining both sides of the bay, it was ideal for smugglers.
It’s believed that once the goods made it off the ships, they went into homes connected by cellars. Then, people could move the goods around Robin Hood’s Bay without detection. Even though the penalty for smuggling was hanging, Robin Hood’s Bay inhabitants marched on without fear, mainly because it was difficult to detect their crimes.
This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local history and tradition. You will learn a thing or two, and you’ll have lots of fun in the process.
Learn more about Robin Hood’s Bay Museum here.
Explore the narrow winding streets
Take your time exploring the alleyways of the lower village, as each twist and turn offers a new perspective on the village’s architecture and design. The whitewashed cottages, Yorkshire stone houses, brightly painted doors and window frames are like something out of a storybook. The street furniture is rustic, with old Victorian-style lamps and intricate iron-framed wooden benches.
As you venture higher up the lower village, you’ll notice that the houses sit on each other in a higgledy-piggledy fashion. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the red-tiled rooftops of the village buildings and how many different levels there are. It’s like taking a step back in time; you won’t want to leave this charming village anytime soon.
Visit Old St Stephen’s Church
Old St Stephen’s Church is another place for history buffs and one of the less-known things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay. The church, which was built in 1822, overlooks the village and has memorials to shipwreck victims and a model of the SS Pretoria. Be sure to go inside instead of just looking at the outside. The inside has many original features, and it is such a peaceful and interesting place to visit.
Find more information about Old St Stephen’s Church here.
Do some unique shopping
Shopping is one of our favourite things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay. There are gift shops, antique stores, bookshops, and more. When you’re finished shopping, pop by one of the restaurants for a bite to eat and a drink.
One of our favourite shops in Robin Hood’s Bay is Berties of Bay who revive the traditional nautical styles worn along the beautiful Yorkshire coastline from times gone by. You’re sure to pick up a special piece here.
Take the Cinder Track and explore more of the area
If you fancy walking or cycling, the Cinder Track, which runs from Mount Pleasant North to Whitby, is ideal. It is a 7.38-mile journey with breathtaking views that will take you approximately 3 hours to walk. Be aware this path can be uneven at times and may not be suitable for prams.
Running along a disused railway path with some relics such as bridges and sleepers, the Cinder Path offers sea and country views for which to die. However, the highlight of this delightful walk must be the Larpool Viaduct. This grade two listed structure with thirteen arches built of brick was built by John Waddell and spans the River Esk.
Find more information about the Cinder Track here.
Visit Falling Foss Tea Garden and waterfall
Exploring the Falling Foss waterfall and the nearby woodland area is one of the best things to do while staying on the North Yorkshire Coast. It’s a wonderful destination for families with younger children as the walk is not too strenuous. The waterfall is beautiful, and there is an enchanting tea garden where you can take a break, toast marshmallows, drink hot chocolate, and enjoy the surroundings.
Learn more about Falling Foss Tea Garden here.
Visit Boggle Hole
Just a mile south of Robin Hood’s Bay is Boggle Hole. Boggle Hole is a small cove. It has been worn away by the harsh North Sea over the years and is a site of special scientific interest (SSSI).
The name Boggle Hole comes from a local name for a mischievous hobgoblin that was thought to have dwelled in the caves where smugglers used to land their contraband. Check for tide times before exploring the caves or fossil hunting here.
Boggle Hole can be reached at low tide along the beach. At other times, it is not accessible via the beach or by the cliff path.
Find more information about Boggle Hole here.
Scare yourself silly on a Robin Hood’s Bay Ghost Walk
If you like tales of the supernatural and the strange, the Robin Hood’s Bay Ghost Walk is probably right up your alley and should not be missed. It is spooky and captivating, and it will take you through the streets, talking about all things mysterious and magical.
Ghosts are not the only thing on the ghost walk agenda, as this unique tour also tells tales of shipwrecks, local folklore, smuggling, and spirits. The tours are suitable for all ages and run most nights through the week.
Please see Rose Ryland’s website for her monthly programme, prices, contact details, and further information here.
Find yourself a fossil
Robin Hood’s Bay and Boggle Hole are good spots for hunting fossils. Some of the treasures you could find are millions of years old. You could discover a dinosaur at Robin Hood’s Bay! Several different fossils can be found along this stretch of coastline.
Be wary and careful collecting at all locations. Knowledge of tide times is essential. It is very easy to get cut off; the sea always hits the cliff. You should ensure you return before the tide turns. Also, be aware of sticky areas on the slippages, as it is easy to get stuck, especially after rain.
Learn more about fossil hunting in the area here.
Enjoy a pub meal with a view at The Bay Hotel
The Bay Hotel is a perfect resting stop after a walk around Robin Hood’s Bay. The pub has a warm, welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and is open to children and dogs.
The food menu boasts a variety of home-cooked options, and the spacious dining room provides a perfect setting for enjoying great meals with a sea view. You can also sit outside in the summer.
If you love the location, you can even stay in one of the three available rooms.
Learn more about the Bay Hotel here.
Walk along the Cleveland Way to Whitby
The trail spans about 7 miles and takes around 3-4 hours. You’ll undoubtedly want to pause to appreciate the stunning views and snap some pictures along the way. You’ll also find plenty of picturesque spots to lay down a blanket for a picnic.
This is just a small fraction of the Cleveland Way, which winds from Scarborough through North York Moors National Park. This isn’t a technically challenging path, and the route is easy to follow. However, it’s a moderate walk with uneven terrain in some places, steep inclines and declines, and parts that can get quite slippery. You’ll want to ensure you’ve got the proper footwear before you set off.
Learn more about the Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay walk here.
Just having fun on the beach is one of our favourite things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay!
If the above doesn’t suit you, how could you not enjoy a beach with this stunning view? Take a picnic and a bucket and spade, grab an ice cream and enjoy the breathtaking scenery at Robin Hood’s Bay. On your way back, pick up some tasty fish and chips!
We hope we have given you some inspiration for the next time you visit Robin Hood’s Bay. If you like nature, history, and natural beauty, this is the place for you. Let us know your favourite things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay in the comments.
We got married at “The Cove” it’s the best hidden secret
That sounds so beautiful!! i hope to get married there next year to my husband Fernando!