North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast
Explore dramatic cliffs, historic fishing villages, and scenic trails along the protected North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast.
The North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast is a stunning protected stretch of coastline along the North York Moors National Park, featuring dramatic cliffs, secluded bays, historic fishing villages, and rich maritime heritage. This area offers spectacular walking routes like the Cleveland Way, opportunities for fossil hunting, rock pooling, and exploring charming seaside towns such as Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes, and Runswick Bay.
A brief summary to North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast
- The Old Vicarage, Bondgate, York, Helmsley, YO62 5BP, GB
- +441439772700
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring sturdy walking shoes for cliff-top trails and uneven beach terrain, especially if fossil hunting or rock pooling.
- Visit the National Trust’s Old Coastguard Station in Robin Hood’s Bay to learn about local history and coastal conservation.
- Plan walks along the Cleveland Way early in the day to enjoy quieter paths and better light for photography.
- Check tide times before exploring beaches like Runswick Bay for safe and rewarding fossil hunting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Whitby from major regional hubs like York or Middlesbrough, with journey times ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. From Whitby, regular local buses connect to Robin Hood’s Bay and other coastal villages. Bus services operate approximately every 30 to 60 minutes, with fares around £5–£10 one way.
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Car
Driving to the Heritage Coast offers flexibility; from York, expect a 1.5-hour journey via A169. Parking is available in villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes, though spaces can be limited during peak seasons. Some beaches require short walks from parking areas.
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Cycling
Cyclists can access the coast via the Cinder Track, a traffic-free route along the former Scarborough to Whitby railway line. The trail is suitable for most levels and connects to several villages along the coast. Bike rental is available in Whitby.
North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast
Majestic Coastal Landscapes and Geological Wonders
The North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, some of the highest in England, including the towering headlands at Boulby and Ravenscar. These cliffs frame secluded bays and sandy beaches such as Runswick Bay and Sandsend, where visitors can explore rock pools teeming with marine life and hunt for fossils revealed at low tide. The coastline’s geological features tell stories of ancient seas and industrial history, including alum shale and ironstone mining that shaped the landscape over centuries.Historic Fishing Villages and Maritime Legacy
Nestled along the coast are traditional fishing villages like Staithes, Robin Hood’s Bay, and Runswick Bay, each with steeply stepped cottages and slipways leading to the sea. These villages evoke a rich maritime heritage, once home to fishermen, smugglers, and sea captains. Robin Hood’s Bay, in particular, is famed for its picturesque streets and rocky foreshore, while Whitby nearby adds to the region’s seafaring lore with its abbey and connections to Captain Cook and Bram Stoker’s Dracula.Walking Trails and Outdoor Adventures
The Cleveland Way National Trail traces 110 miles of this coastline, offering walkers breathtaking sea views, cliff-top paths, and access to quiet beaches. Sections between Robin Hood’s Bay and Whitby provide manageable day walks with opportunities to stop at traditional pubs and cafes. The area also supports activities such as surfing at Cayton Bay, birdwatching at Moss Seat and Hummersea Nature Reserve, and cycling along the Cinder Track, a converted railway line.Natural and Cultural Conservation Efforts
As a protected heritage coast within the North York Moors National Park, the area balances conservation with public enjoyment. National Trust visitor centres, such as the Old Coastguard Station in Robin Hood’s Bay, offer insights into local geology, wildlife, and history, including smuggling and coastal erosion. Rangers actively manage habitats to preserve wildlife and maintain the natural beauty that defines this coastline.Seasonal Beauty and Visitor Experience
The coast changes with the seasons—from purple heather carpeting the moorland hills in late summer to the crisp, clear skies of autumn that highlight panoramic sea views. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, wildlife spotting, and the vibrant atmosphere of seaside towns. Family-friendly beaches and fossil-rich shores make it an engaging destination for all ages, while local artisan shops and eateries provide a taste of northern hospitality.Accessibility and Amenities for Visitors
While some beaches and coves require steep descents or longer walks, many parts of the coast are accessible via well-maintained paths and cycle routes. Visitor centres provide information, refreshments, and facilities, enhancing the experience. The region’s blend of natural grandeur, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities makes it a compelling destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitby Walks
1.1 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Whitby with guided tours from Whitby Walks, perfect for every traveler.
Whitby Harbour West Lighthouse
1.1 km
Historic sentinel guiding ships since 1831—climb 81 steps for harbour views and maritime heritage.
Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
1.2 km
Historic sandstone lighthouse guarding Whitby Harbour’s entrance, offering timeless maritime charm and stunning coastal views.
Old Town Hall
1.3 km
A neoclassical gem in Whitby’s Market Square, blending centuries of history with vibrant market life and ongoing restoration.
Skelton Tower
20.1 km
Historic Skelton Tower stands as a romantic ruin with sweeping views over Newtondale and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Westmoreland Street
59.7 km
Explore Darlington from Westmoreland Street, your hub for transport, local culture, and historical attractions in County Durham.
Ludworth Tower
60.7 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
Foss Fairy Trail
65.5 km
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Robin Hood Tower
65.8 km
Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
Medieval Walls
65.8 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
City Wall Walk
65.9 km
Explore the historic City Wall Walk in York for breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history in one of England's most delightful cities.
Monk Bar
65.9 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
York City Walls
65.9 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
65.9 km
Explore the grandeur of Treasurer's House in York, a captivating historical museum that unveils the rich tapestry of English heritage.
St Anthonys Garden
66.0 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whitby Beach Huts
0.4 km
Vibrant and iconic beach huts lining Whitby’s shore, blending coastal heritage with photogenic charm.
Whitby Cliff Lift
0.5 km
Historic funicular railway offering stunning coastal views and easy access between Whitby’s town and East Cliff.
Whitby's Bumper Boats & Go Karts
0.6 km
Experience thrilling go-kart races and splashy bumper boat fun on Whitby’s scenic West Cliff—perfect for family adventures by the sea.
Memorial
0.8 km
Discover peace and history at Whitby's Memorial Park, a serene space honoring local heroes and offering beautiful landscapes for reflection.
Whitby Wishing Chair
0.9 km
Discover Whitby’s enchanting medieval wishing chair, a historic mile cross base steeped in legend and local charm on Castle Road.
Whitby Beach
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant charm and natural beauty of Whitby Beach, where sandy shores meet historic cliffs and family fun awaits.
Captain Cook Memorial
0.9 km
Discover the birthplace of Captain Cook’s maritime legacy in Whitby’s historic 17th-century house, where adventure and history come alive.
Whalebone Arch
1.0 km
A towering tribute on Whitby’s West Cliff, the Whalebone Arch honors the town’s daring whaling past with stunning sea views and historic resonance.
Saint Niklaus Krampus Run Whitby
1.0 km
Experience Whitby’s thrilling Saint Niklaus Krampus Run, a festive parade blending ancient European folklore with lively music and theatrical mischief.
Abbey House Visitor Centre, Museum & Tea Room
1.0 km
Discover Whitby Abbey’s rich history and stunning coastal views at the welcoming Abbey House Visitor Centre, featuring museum exhibits and a charming tea room.
RNLI Whitby Museum
1.0 km
Explore Whitby’s maritime heroism and lifeboat legacy in this historic, free-entry museum on the scenic Pier Road.
Whitby Museum
1.1 km
Explore Whitby’s rich maritime heritage and Jurassic past in a charming Edwardian museum set within scenic Pannett Park.
Arch & Abbey
1.1 km
A cozy micropub in Whitby offering rotating real ales, Yorkshire gins, homemade cakes, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Red Hat Ghost Walk
1.1 km
Discover Whitby’s haunted tales in rhyme on a charming, accessible ghost walk led by a true local storyteller.
Whitby Marine Discovery Centre & Whitby Lobster Hatchery
1.1 km
Discover native marine life and support lobster conservation at Whitby’s engaging aquarium and hatchery by the harbour.
Essential places to dine
Pizza West
0.7 km
Enjoy fresh, flavorful pizzas in a relaxed coastal setting on Whitby’s scenic West Cliff, where modern dining meets seaside charm.
The Fisherman's Wife Whitby
1.0 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking sea views at Whitby’s beloved Fisherman’s Wife restaurant.
Ditto
1.0 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Whitby serving fresh, seasonal British dishes with warm, personalized service in an intimate setting.
Cranberry Swamp
1.1 km
A relaxed, inclusive café in Whitby serving generous breakfasts, vegan and gluten-free dishes, and some of the best cakes in town.
Harbour Grill
1.1 km
Savor hearty barbecue classics with harbour views at Harbour Grill, Whitby’s beloved casual eatery on Pier Road.
Magpie Café
1.1 km
Experience Whitby's iconic waterfront dining with the freshest seafood and stunning harbour views at the historic Magpie Café.
Harry's Lounge Bar & Brasserie
1.1 km
Modern British tapas and seafood with harbour views in Whitby’s lively lounge bar and brasserie.
Quayside
1.1 km
Fresh, crispy fish and chips served by the scenic Whitby Harbour in a welcoming, tastefully decorated setting.
Rusty Shears
1.1 km
A vintage-inspired café and bar in Whitby offering hearty breakfasts, homemade cakes, and an extensive gin collection in a quirky, cozy setting.
The Marine Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Marine Bar & Restaurant, a welcoming Whitby dining spot with stunning sea views and modern comfort.
The Vault, Whitby
1.2 km
Historic vaults meet modern British dining in a cozy Whitby restaurant and lounge bar with friendly service and generous portions.
The Moon & Sixpence
1.2 km
Relax by Whitby’s waterfront with fresh seafood, grilled delights, and creative cocktails at The Moon & Sixpence.
Emma's Diner
1.2 km
Step into Emma's Diner for hearty American classics and a welcoming retro vibe with tasty vegan options in the heart of Whitby.
Abbey Wharf
1.3 km
Experience fresh seafood and vibrant bar culture with stunning harbour views at Whitby's Abbey Wharf.
Al Taco
1.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican street food with bold flavors and friendly service in the heart of Whitby at Al Taco.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Bazaar
1.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Whitby’s historic Skinner Street.
The Crow Emporium
1.1 km
Discover Whitby’s charming literary gift shop offering unique artisan crafts and exclusive illustrated classics in a cozy, creative setting.
The Great Goth
1.1 km
Discover Whitby’s ultimate gothic fashion destination with unique clothing, accessories, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Great Goth.
Esho Funi
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Esho Funi, Whitby’s charming and stylish gift shop on Marine Parade.
Whitby Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover authentic local crafts and unique coastal souvenirs at Whitby Gift Shop, a charming treasure on Marine Parade in historic Whitby.
Rainbow Shells
1.2 km
Discover unique local treasures, spiritual gems, and charming souvenirs at Rainbow Shells, Whitby’s cozy gift shop in the heart of town.
GutsyGingers
1.2 km
Discover Whitby’s vibrant boutique offering handcrafted fashion, unique accessories, and eclectic homewares with a bohemian soul.
Whitby Vintage
1.2 km
Discover timeless style and nostalgia at Whitby Vintage, a charming boutique on Flowergate offering curated retro fashion in a historic town setting.
The Little Shop of Wonderful Things
1.3 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and quirky curios in the heart of Whitby’s historic Flowergate at The Little Shop of Wonderful Things.
Whitby Wholefoods & Propagansey
1.3 km
A charming Whitby shop blending natural wholefoods, vitamins, and hand-made wool for health and craft enthusiasts alike.
Pandemonium
1.3 km
Discover Whitby’s gothic heart at Pandemonium, a unique shop offering alternative fashion and accessories in the town’s historic core.
Asylum Antiquities
1.3 km
Discover Whitby’s hidden antique gems and quirky collectibles in the charming Asylum Antiquities shop at Abbey Wharf.
Curio Corner
1.3 km
Discover Whitby’s charming Curio Corner, a quaint gift shop brimming with unique treasures and vintage collectibles in the heart of Market Place.
Layla Rhode
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and coastal charm at Layla Rhode, Whitby's beloved boutique in the historic Market Place.
Yorkshire Trading Company
1.3 km
A trusted Whitby department store offering diverse home, garden, and everyday essentials with friendly service and great value.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Metropole
0.5 km
Relax by the sea at The Metropole, a dog-friendly bar on Whitby's North Promenade with casual charm and beachside vibes.
The Met Lounge & Ballroom
0.5 km
A stylish bar and lounge in Whitby offering vibrant nightlife, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic coastal town setting.
The Beach Shack
1.0 km
Relax by the North Sea at The Beach Shack, Whitby’s casual waterfront bar with scenic views and a laid-back vibe.
The Granby
1.0 km
A traditional Whitby pub offering hearty meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere just steps from the beach and harbour.
The Ship Inn
1.2 km
A charming seaside pub on Whitby’s Marine Parade, blending unique decor, hearty food, and harbor views in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Elsinore
1.2 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending warm hospitality, lively music, and authentic local charm on historic Flowergate.
Little Angel
1.2 km
A traditional Whitby pub with cozy rooms, lively entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Buck Inn
1.2 km
Lively harbourfront pub and cozy inn offering authentic Whitby charm and vibrant local atmosphere on St Anne's Staith.
Beer oclock
1.2 km
A modern micropub in Whitby blending craft beer culture with cozy charm and historic character on Flowergate.
Duke of York Whitby
1.3 km
Historic Whitby pub and cozy hotel with classic fare, real ales, and stunning harbour views at the foot of the iconic 199 Steps.
The Esk Vaults
1.3 km
Discover Whitby’s cozy upstairs pub with craft beers, homemade food, and a welcoming family-friendly vibe at The Esk Vaults.
The Golden Lion
1.3 km
A lively Irish pub in Whitby offering authentic music, quirky charm, and great value in a historic coastal town setting.
NO54 bistro bar
1.3 km
Cozy and quirky bistro bar in Whitby serving local flavors, great wines, and gluten-free delights in a welcoming, dog-friendly setting.
The Black Swan
1.3 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending classic charm with lively nights and friendly service on Baxtergate.
The Whitby Way
1.3 km
Boutique luxury and bohemian charm merge in this stylish midtown Manhattan hotel with elegant design and exceptional service.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Videotheque Disco's
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
40.1 km
Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
40.2 km
Experience Middlesbrough’s energetic nightlife at Stereo Club Tees, a lively nightclub hosting up to 500 guests with late-night music and dancing.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
66.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
BlueBox
66.4 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
66.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
66.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Club Salvation
66.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
7even Nightclub
66.6 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Popworld York
66.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
66.7 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
66.7 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
24 North Bailey Club
68.3 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Durham's 24 North Bailey Club, where good drinks and great company await.
Klute
68.4 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Osbournes
68.4 km
Experience Durham's vibrant nightlife at Osbournes, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
