WHITBY

One of the Yorkshire Coasts’ most scenic and wondrous towns is Whitby, a place of ancient history and lots of life. Whether you’re paying a visit here for the day, on a romantic getaway or enjoying the day out as a family, there are an array of wonderful experiences in this not-so-little seaside town.

Amongst the breathtaking coastal views are several attractions full of rich history and culture. Whitby Abbey, a 7th-century Christian monastery, stands proud overlooking the North Sea since it was first founded in 657 AD. And better yet, you can roam the gothic ruins with their interactive guides and visit the museum where there’s more history to uncover.

Being so much more than just your average seaside town, here you can also discover the Whalebone Arch which is a reminder of the town’s whaling history. The structure was first set up around 1853, a replica was then presented by Norway to Whitby in 1963, and the current replacement was donated from Alaska in 2003.

And what’s a trip to the seaside without paying a visit to the beach? You can have a quick swim in the North Sea, catch some sun rays and watch the world go by on a nice summer weekend. If you’re wanting to visit for a special event, you can catch the Whitby Folk Week at Whitby Pavillion from August 20th-26th, The Great Seaside Vintage Fair on July 16th-17th or the Whitby Beer Festival on July 28th-31st.

Not only is Whitby a wonderful place to rest and relax, there are also some truly amazing independent businesses dotted around the streets. Beginning on Baxtergate is Cod Roe, a family-run fishmongers who catch and supply fresh seafood, and Bothams, a craft bakery, shop and beautiful tearoom who were established in 1865. Down the cobbled street you come to The Whitby Cobbler, a traditional business with a modern twist who are traders and repairers of fine British handmade footwear.

Into Angel Yard on Baxtergate is Angel Fisheries, a family-run fish and chip shop serving up everyone’s favourite seaside food. Also tucked away in Angel Yard is The Singing Kettle Cafe, a friendly place to grab a good coffee and tasty lunch. Onto St Ann’s Staith you can find Hopes & Beans, a proper coffee shop serving you great quality coffee and locally-made cakes to satisfy that sweet tooth. Then on your stroll down Pier Road you’ll not miss the Magpie Cafe, with queues often sprawling outside. It’s not a real trip to Whitby if you didn’t visit here for some of the finest fish dishes in Yorkshire.

Back around to the street of Flowergate is the Reading Rooms & Gallery, a lovely space for diverse and contemporary Northern art and photography. The Whitby Deli is a shop of all delightful things including freshly baked goods, a deli, hampers and gifts to take as a picnic to the beach or enjoy back home! And The Whitby Hampers combine the area’s finest produce, perfect for when you’re back to reality and missing the tastes and smells of Whitby.

Across the Iron Bridge is Grape Lane, the ideal place for a spot of shopping on your way towards the Abbey. Home goods store The Sandy Seahorse stocks an array of decor and interior pieces inspired by the coast and the countryside. And The Coffee Shop is perfect for those who need to grab a quick coffee and a snack before or after climbing the 199 steps to Whitby Abbey. For those who like something a little bit stronger, Whitby Brewery is located beautifully on the cliff tops, and The Green Dragon sells some of the best beers and ciders that are both local and international; you can even pop into their tap rooms to taste one or two.

Onto the iconic Church Street you can explore and discover some more of the town’s best independents. Pop in to Totally Natural Skincare for some luxurious and natural products including serums, soaps, bath salts, moisturisers and aromatherapy gifts. Mr Cooper’s Coffee House is an inviting coffee shop serving you fresh espresso, speciality teas, sandwiches and pastries for you to enjoy inside or out. If you’re looking to leave Whitby with the perfect treat for someone, The Ebor Jetworks produces stunning and original jewellery pieces that are sure to catch your eye. And The Whitby Bookshop is filled with an exciting selection of books and gifts to treat yourself to.

Back onto Sandgate you can find Venus Trading, a quirky little gift shop that was born in 1982 as a small stall selling crafts and jewellery. 40 years on they now sell a diverse selection of furniture, clothing, homeware, toys and jewellery. And men, if you’re on the hunt for a new outfit or trim, Furbellow & Co is a gentlemen’s lifestyle store selling clothing and accessories as well as being a friendly barbershop.
So, with Summer on the horizon it seems like the perfect time to plan your trip over to Whitby and make the most of the British sun in one of England’s most charming towns.

SCARBOROUGH

Perhaps Yorkshire’s most famous coastal town, Scarborough spans an incredible coastline of natural beauty with fun and entertainment that make for a perfect trip to the Yorkshire Coast. Like Whitby, the town of Scarborough is also full of history and attractions if you’re wanting to add a sprinkle of culture to your visit.

Scarborough Castle is a former medieval Royal fortress that overlooks the North Sea and Scarborough town and has a 3000 year history for which you can explore. Over the centuries several other structures were added and it was defended throughout various civil wars. The castle has been a ruin since the sieges of the English Civil War and is now run by English Heritage. Elsewhere, on Vernon Road you can also find the Rotunda Museum, one of the oldest purpose-built museums still in use in the UK, built in 1829. Inside this Grade II listed building you can see 11,000 year old artefacts, fascinating collections of fossils and explore the stories of the 19th Century Scarborough Philosophical Society.

For when you’re looking for something to keep the kids entertained, you can see a variety of sea creatures at SEA LIFE, go down the water slides at Alpamare UK, or catch a show at Scarborough Spa or Open Air Theatre. Throughout the summer you can visit events like the Yellow Dot Festival on July 1st-3rd, the DMAs on July 9th, or Jurassic Earth on August 12th.

Scarborough is also filled with a range of independent businesses who bring a sense of community to the town. Starting on Northway, you can pop into Koda for a coffee to start the day or to grab a bite from their plant-based menu. Also found here is Nabs at Northway, a cosy friendly cafe serving appetising brunch dishes such as stuffed croissants, pancakes, sandwiches and more.

Or why not try Eat Me Cafe, a restaurant known for their eclectic British and Asian inspired food. Across onto Hanover Road is Andrea Willis Designs, a beautiful hidden gift shop stocked with handmade cards and keepsake gifts to remember your trip to the seaside. You’ll then be spoilt for choice in Embers as their food is bursting with flavour and has a seasonal menu using the best local Yorkshire produce. On Victoria Road, Mojos Music Cafe is a great place to enjoy some tasty food and listen to some great tunes. And if you’re vegan in Scarborough, Love Brew is the place for you as this cosy cafe is plant-based, friendly and delicious.

Greensmith is also a great pit-stop for some hand crafted coffee, sweet treats or a light lunch. Then down onto one of Scarborough’s oldest streets, Bar Street, is The Green Room, a charming and intimate restaurant with an impressive menu to sample. Along from there is Walkers of Bar Street, a welcoming and friendly cafe serving home cooked comfort food. Around the corner on Waterhouse Lane, Relish Kitchen is an exciting cafe offering hearty food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Then onto Queen Street, where refined British restaurant Clark’s turn local ingredients into fine plates of food.

If you’re looking for somewhere lovely to stay on your visit to Scarborough, try the Bike and Boot Inn, an eccentric hotel that is dog-friendly and the perfect escapism. Nearby is award-winning coffee house Espresso Yourself on Falconers Road, and down onto York Place you’ll find Sha-Ka, a family run cafe that serves Hawaiian inspired food, roasted coffee and homemade cakes.

For those who love browsing around the gift shops on holiday, pop into Homebird House in St Helen’s Square for some home accessories or bath and body products. Opposite is Scarborough Market Hall and Vaults, which is filled with three floors of exciting independent traders. Little lifestyle shop Wooley Edge specialises in pre-loved treasures, vintage pieces and personalised gifts. Here you can also find Preen, a small beauty salon and gift shop offering treatments in nails, eyebrows, makeup and facials. And if you love discovering local artists, Martine Gwynne specialises in abstract paintings and portraits. Solange Bakery, also in the market, provides delightful artisan baked treats using local and organic ingredients for fresh bread, sweets and pastries.

Heading down towards the Scarborough sea front, on Huntriss Row is Troost, the town’s newest coffee shop. Further on, discover small cafe Francesca’s Street Eat, a family run business that serves up vegan fusion food. Then on Sandside, GEO is a new cocktail bar and kitchen serving up an array of drinks and small plates. And towards the other beach in Scarborough and near the unique Peasholm Park, The Hideout is a unique cafe, kitchen and bar that’s the perfect venue to meet up with friends, family or enjoy a coffee on your own.

And after travelling round all of these great cafes, shops, restaurants, bars and attractions that Scarborough has to offer, you might now find time to experience the beaches, the sea, the fish & chips, the amusement arcades, and all the seaside fun of Scarborough.

OTHER SURROUNDING AREAS

Dotted around these two popular towns along the coast are a variety of smaller villages and towns that help make the Yorkshire Coast into one of the best places to visit in the UK.

Starting up the North East coast for a visit to Saltburn by the Sea, a fishing village in Redcar and Cleveland. Amongst the golden sands and pier, and waves which brings surfers flocking here, you can discover several independent businesses, including The Sea View Restaurant. This destination venue offers you the finest seafood experience looking out over the best view in the town. Down Milton Street you will come across The Vintage Vault, a treasure trove of home goods, interior pieces and unusual items. Also on this street is Twenty Three, a laid back neighbourhood bar which serves up craft beer and Neapolitan style pizza.

Just a 20 minute drive away from Saltburn you’ll arrive at Staithes, one of the largest fishing ports in the North East and one of Yorkshire’s most picturesque villages. This gem is home to the Cod and Lobster, a seafront restaurant that’s perfect to visit during any season. Indulging in some incredible and fresh seafood and looking out at the scenic view is truly one of Yorkshire’s best qualities. Here you can also find Betsy and Bo, a traditional sweet shop, deli and coffee shop, and Ringers Cafe Bar, which is a vibrant space in Staithes selling delicious coffee and cakes.

After another 15 minutes drive down South along the Yorkshire Coast you’ll come across the small fishing village near Whitby, Sandsend. This unique coastal retreat is perfect for those looking for somewhere to escape, relax and unwind from reality. A popular destination in Sandsend is Fish Cottage, a seafood restaurant that’s located just 20 yards from the beach. They pride themselves on serving the finest, locally sourced sustainable fish and seafood, so a meal at Fish Cottage is a must. And whilst you’re here, Wild Hart is a lovely little gift shop on East Row which stocks a variety of gifts, vintage pieces and candles.

Nestled in between Whitby and Scarborough, Robin Hood’s Bay is another idyllic fishing village found in the North York Moors National Park. Wandering through the narrow cobbled streets, up and down the hills and through the alleyways you’ll discover just how evocative this town truly is. Just metres away from the sea is Tea, Toast and Post, a small music oriented cafe that serves up homemade food, fresh coffee and lots of other drinks to keep you hydrated on your strolls. What’s a trip to the coast without grabbing some fish and chips? Located at the top of Bay Bank is Fish Box, the perfect place to stop for some food and take in the panoramic views. You can also find Berties of Bay, a heritage menswear clothing brand that revives traditional styles inspired by past times along the Yorkshire Coast.

After a longer drive along the coast and past Scarborough you’ll find yourself in Filey. This quiet seaside town is perfect for families looking for a little break, known for its large beach and popularity amongst tourists. Whilst here, why not pop in to Lily’s Bar on John Street for a quick refreshment, where they offer a wide variety of specialist beers, wine and gin for those who like a tipple or two. The Boat Shed on Murray Street is another of Filey’s best spots for both food and drinks, you can spend the night here socialising with friends or visit with the family for some amazing pizza. Also on Murray Street is Filey Bistro & Coffee Bar, ideal for those who want to make a quick pit-stop in between shopping and walking around the streets of Filey.

Our journey ends in Bridlington, another popular coastal town that boasts seaside entertainment, attractions, independents and culture. Starting on High Street, pay a visit to The Nut & Nettle, a family run eatery that is plant-based, handmade and dog-friendly. Further along this street is Morten Gallery which exhibits contemporary paintings and sculptural ceramics from Jenny Morten and her late husband Geoff. Another independent to make a quick visit to is Gray’s Emporium, a vintage lover’s haven which is filled with antiques, collectibles and quirky interior pieces. And if you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, Tiffin & Co on Market Place is a chocolate cafe that produces traditional desserts that are sure to make you go back for more.