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The top 10 best beaches in Yorkshire
Are you looking for your next dream beach holiday? If so, you should focus on the coastal wonders of a holiday in Yorkshire. This great county in Northern England is renowned for its breathtaking coastline. The best beaches here are also some of the top in the UK.
From beautiful, secluded coves to expansive sandy stretches, Yorkshire beaches offer something for everyone. So, whether it's a family getaway or a solo adventure you're after, Yorkshire is the place to be for your next trip.
Some of the top choices include the fantastic Filey Beach in Yorkshire and the well-known coastal splendour of Scarborough Beach, amongst many other great picks.
If you're seeking a tranquil escape or an action-packed adventure, these best beaches in Yorkshire will leave you spellbound, so let's take a closer look at what they are:
- Filey Beach
- Sandsend Beach
- Runswick Bay
- Scarborough Beach
- Whitby Beach
- Robin Hood's Bay
- Saltburn Beach
- Cayton Bay
- North Landing
- Bridlington Beach
Filey Beach
Starting our list of the best beaches in Yorkshire is Filey Beach, a true gem nestled along the Yorkshire coast. This long and sandy beach stretches for miles, providing ample space for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely strolls. The beach's gentle slope is ideal for families with young children who want to enjoy a fun day out on the coast.
Find out moreThe nearby town of Filey also offers a charming atmosphere with cosy cafes and traditional fish and chip shops – so you have everything you need for the best beach experience. Not only is Filey Beach undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Yorkshire, but if you're staying at The Bay Filey Holiday Resort, you can have direct access to Filey Beach in less than a 10-minute drive.
Sandsend Beach
Tucked away in the village of Sandsend, this secluded beach is a true hidden treasure. Sandsend Beach boasts a stunning backdrop of towering cliffs and a picturesque beach path that winds through scenic surroundings. You can take a brisk stroll along this path or relax on the beach and soak up the sun – it's entirely up to you.
Find out moreThe beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, making it a popular spot for beachcombing and fossil hunting, especially at low tide when there are plenty of rock pools to discover.
Runswick Bay
Runswick Bay is a postcard-perfect cove that will take your breath away, so it makes our list of the best beaches in Yorkshire. Towering cliffs shelter this beach and features a charming village perched above the bay, creating the perfect surroundings for a scenic beach experience. Visitors can also enjoy coastal walks, fossil hunting, with cafes and pubs nearby.
Find out moreThe sandy beach is also dotted with rock pools, making it a paradise for the whole family. And when we say the entire family, we mean everyone – that's right, your furry friend is welcome on this dog-friendly beach all year round.
Scarborough Beach
You've likely heard of the classic seaside destination, Scarborough Beach. This is one of those Yorkshire beaches that offers a little something for everyone. This vast stretch of sandy beach is divided into two sections – the North Bay and the South Bay. The beach is perfect for families with amusement parks, arcades, and traditional seaside attractions.
Find out moreBoth sections offer stunning views of Scarborough's historic castle and harbour, making it one of Yorkshire's most iconic and best beaches. Plus, if you're staying at The Bay Filey Holiday Resort, you can reach Scarborough Beach in around a 25-minute drive.
Whitby Beach
Whitby Beach is a true gem on the Yorkshire coast, renowned for its picturesque setting and rich history. This beach is divided into two sections, with West Cliff Beach being the main beach spot. From sunbathing and beach games to windbreak hire and donkey rides, this beach has everything to make your family day out unforgettable.
Find out moreThe flat sandy beach is large, so you'll easily find space to indulge in sandcastle building, beach ball activities, and whatever else you fancy. The charming town, with its narrow, cobbled streets and traditional fish and chip shops, adds to the allure of one of the best beaches in Yorkshire. Many car parking spots are also available, so you're all set for your beach day out!
Robin Hood's Bay
You must visit Robin Hoods Bay, a fantastic beach in a delightful seaside village. This beach boasts a unique experience, with a picturesque cove surrounded by towering cliffs and quaint cottages. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, with rock pools and sea caves waiting to be explored by the young adventurers among you, just be careful of the tides if you do decide to explore.
Find out moreVisitors can enjoy coastal walks, fossil hunting, and the charming village atmosphere with traditional pubs and shops. You can even learn about the history of this beach, named after the famous outlaw who's said to have hidden in the nearby woods.
Saltburn Beach
Another of the best beaches in Yorkshire is Saltburn Beach. At this lengthy sandy beach, you can enjoy scenic views of the mighty cliffs and the charming Victorian town. The beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and even surfing if you want a more adventurous experience. Visitors can also explore the historic Saltburn Pier, one of the oldest remaining pleasure piers in the country.
Find out more
Cayton Bay
Cayton Bay is a truly breathtaking choice among the Yorkshire beaches since it perfectly blends natural beauty and outdoor adventures. This long sandy beach is backed by towering cliffs and lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting for all your family photos. You can enjoy a variety of activities at the beach, including leisurely walks, rock pooling, and even fossil hunting.
Find out moreFor thrill-seekers, Cayton Bay is also a popular spot for surfing and kite surfing, thanks to its ideal wind and wave conditions. If you're driving from The Bay Filey Holiday Resort, Cayon Bay is only 10-minutes from where you're staying.
North Landing
A smaller, more secluded option for the best beaches in Yorkshire is North Landing Beach. This hidden gem is full of geological wonders, including rocks and pebbles, to be explored, along with the vast cliffs behind the beach. This secluded cove can only be accessed by a steep footpath or boat, making it one of the more unique Yorkshire beaches to visit on your getaway.
Find out moreNorth Landing is a true paradise for those seeking tranquillity and a chance to escape the crowds—and you can bring your dog, too, because dogs are welcome all year round!
Bridlington Beach (North Beach)
A classic seaside destination in Yorkshire is Bridlington Beach, offering the perfect blend of entertainment and natural beauty. This vast sandy beach is divided into two sections – the North Beach and the South Beach, with the North Beach being the best option. A bustling hub of activity with amusement parks, arcades, and traditional seaside attractions.
Find out moreBridlington also boasts a historic harbour, charming promenades, and various restaurants and cafes, so you'll have everything you need to fill your day out with fun, food, and family memories.
The best Yorkshire beaches FAQs
If you're looking for more information on the best beaches in Yorkshire, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions:
Which is the best seaside town in Yorkshire?
Whitby is often considered the best seaside town in Yorkshire. With its picturesque beach, iconic abbey, and charming cobbled streets, Whitby offers a quintessential seaside experience.
The town's rich history, delicious fish and chip shops, and stunning beaches make it a top destination for visitors.
What is the closest beach to York?
For those visiting the historic city of York, the closest beach is York Beach, located approximately 10 minutes away from the city centre by car.
There are plenty of other beaches in Yorkshire that are within driving distance from York, offering the perfect place for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely strolls.
Where can you swim on the Yorkshire coast?
Some of the best spots for swimming on the Yorkshire coast include Scarborough Beach, Whitby Beach, and Bridlington Beach. These beaches offer designated swimming areas and lifeguard patrols during the summer months.
Many more Yorkshire beaches are suitable for paddling and splashing around – discover them on holiday!
Does Whitby have nice beaches?
Yes, Whitby boasts some of the best beaches in Yorkshire. The town has two main beaches: West Cliff Beach and Tate Hill Beach.
Both beaches offer stunning views of the iconic Whitby Abbey and the harbour and opportunities for sunbathing, beach games, and exploring rock pools.
Get ready for the best beach holiday in Yorkshire
Yorkshire's stunning coastline offers many beaches to suit every taste and preference. Whether you're seeking a secluded cove, a family-friendly sandy stretch, or a beach with endless outdoor activities, you'll find some of the best beaches in Yorkshire.
Will you enjoy the picturesque Runswick Bay or maybe the bustling Scarborough Beach? Whatever you decide, these Yorkshire beaches promise unforgettable experiences and lasting holiday memories.
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Take a look at beaches by region:
Hampshire | Scotland | Isle of Wight | Dorset | North Wales | Yorkshire | Lincolnshire | Cornwall