Gorgeous team
20 July 2016
If you have never been to the North Yorkshire coast or just want a little refresher of what’s available to see and do, here is our top five reasons to visit:
1. Cake (and food in general)
Now, who doesn’t love a nice piece of cake, preferably with a cup of (Yorkshire) tea? Did you know the North York Moors has been declared ‘Britain’s Capital of Cake'? Personally, that is all the reason I need for a visit and on the official website www.capitalofcake.com you’ll find more than 50 varieties to try - although maybe spread them out over a few visits - it also lists all of the places you can try them.
.jpg)
If you don’t have a sweet tooth, then fear not there is plenty of savoury food on offer as well with a vast array of quality gastropubs as well as the monthly Malton food market which brings together the best local producers in the area so you will always find the freshest ingredients.
2. Smuggling history
In Georgian times the North York Moors (and in particular Robin Hood’s Bay) was a haven for illegal smuggling activity. We are pretty sure there isn’t any of this going on these days but you can have plenty of fun following in the smuggler’s footsteps down this pretty villages winding roads and narrow alleyways. The Robin Hood's Bay Museum has a model showing how a smuggler’s house would have looked in the 18th century and where they would have concealed their illegal contraband.
Local company Baytown Beers and Spirits produce a range of aptly named bottled beers and also organise the occasional guided tour and beer tasting.
3. The Cleveland Way National Trail
Probably the best way to discover this beautiful coastline is the 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail which covers moorland, fishing villages and tranquil valleys with some spectacular views along the way. It can easily be broken up into manageable chunks and you will want to keep coming back to do more. Recommendations that you’ll find in the guide include:
The highest point at Boulby Cliff – a 5-mile walk will take you along the coastline at Staithes to this 665 feet cliff top – one of the best spots for panoramic views of the area.
The beautiful waterfall at Hayburn Wyke – a 2.8-mile walk will take you to this picturesque cove and beach which is a great spot for a picnic.
Ravenscar – voted one of the best spots for stunning views of Yorkshire where you can follow a figure of eight walk through this little hamlet.
4. Fishing (and fish and chips!)
The North York Moors coastline still has a thriving fishing industry so you’ll see plenty of boats out at sea and in the harbours – you can even charter your own if you fancy trying your hand at it.
This fishing heritage means there is no better place to get fish and chips than at one of the many coastal takeaway shops or cafes. In my opinion, no trip to the North Yorkshire coast is complete without fish and chips.
Look out for signs of the fishing heritage of the area such as the whalebone jaws on Whitby’s West Cliff.
5. Family fun
There’s plenty on the coast to entertain little ones including the Saltburn Miniature Railway and a free sticker trail in Staithes which lets children follow in the footsteps of CBeebies Old Jack’s Boat which was filmed in the area. There are lots of places to try rockpooling which is always good fun, and Runswick Bay is a great place to search out shells, fossils and other treasures.
Keep an eye out for nature in the area as well – you could spot anything from butterflies and birds to falcons and seals!
So there you have it, lots to see and do on the North York Moors Coast and if you are planning a visit we have plenty of gorgeous cottages to make your trip even more special. Give us a call for more information on 0844 736 6276.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.