Stretching from Staithes in the north to Filey in the south, the Yorkshire coastline is one of the country’s longest with resorts and attractions for every age. Its event-filled calendar and bountiful seafood make it perfect to visit off season.
Looking for a quick getaway off-season? Autumnal colours fill parks and cliff-tops, fine food and drink arrive in generous Yorkshire portions and a packed line-up of events make the Yorkshire Coast hard to beat.
Head to historic Scarborough, explore its castle ruins, shop boutiques and independent shops in Bar Street and Huntriss Row or the wonderful indoor Market Hall and Vaults to browse local artisan businesses.
And there’s plenty going on! Visit Scarborough’s Open Air Theatre in September to see George Ezra or attend the 19th annual Scarborough Jazz Festival, plan a trip in October for the Scarborough Northern Soul Weekender or the popular Scarborough Surf Festival on the 15 October.
Known for its literary Bram Stoker’s connections, Whitby offers a coastal retreat with a difference. Take the Dracula Experience and delve into the town’s Gothic culture through its quirky cobbled streets, shops and Abbey ruins. Visit from 21 to 31 October and you’ll be able to see the Abbey bathed in dramatic illuminations.
The town’s also famed for Captain Cook, visit the immersive Captain Cook Memorial Museum and spot his monument on the West Cliff nearby the impressive replica of a whale jawbone transformed into an archway.
Filey which is a little quieter than the other coastal resorts, is the perfect choice for those wanting a holiday that’s a little less crowded, the town next month however comes alive when it showcases the Filey International Food Festival 15-16 October, boasting over 70 stalls.
Local artisan producers are a plenty along the coastline offering a selection of tours to experience.
So, when it comes to refuelling, you can’t miss the freshly caught seafood all along this coast. Splurge on dressed crab and gourmet lobster at one of the fine-dining restaurants or tuck into arguably some of the UK’s best fish and chips at the end of a pier!
We recommend a visit to Whitby Brewery, Whitby Gin Distillery or Yorkshire's first ever single malt whisky distillery in Hunmanby at the Spirit of Yorkshire.
Feeling active? Try surfing, sailing, climbing, horse-riding or trekking, there are countless options. Then dine on locally-sourced Yorkshire produce at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants or unwind at one of the cosy pubs with a local pint.
However, if you’re seeking a quieter escape and the chance to roam the cliff-top paths, choose one of the many secluded villages such as Ravenscar, Staithes, Robin Hood’s Bay, Runswick Bay or Sandsend. Once home to smugglers, these tranquil villages are perfect for a peaceful break, reverting to a time when life was less frenetic and more relaxed.
