Staithes: A Picturesque Coastal Gem in England's North Yorkshire

Staithes (Steeas ) is a pretty little seaside village in North Yorkshire, England. It is not a huge touristy spot, but it definitely draws travelers from all over the world, due to its history and beautiful nature scenes. You may say it still is a hidden gem to the rest of the world…

Staithes has a small, sandy, dog-friendly beach: to many travelers, this is one of the prettiest beaches on the East Coast.

The area is decorated with rugged but beautiful cliffs on one side and the sea, meeting the North York Moors National Park on the other which makes for a beautiful little beach village.

However, the beach area is not reckoned as a swimming beach. If you travel to Staithes you will, however, be rewarded with beautiful photography opportunities and it really is worth visiting.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Staithes in the UK, is from May to September during which you’ll have more sunny days with pleasant temperatures.

Things to do in Staithes

Hiking in the National park which has a network of Public right of way paths you can fallow (almost 1 400 miles or 2 300 km in length). The most popular ones are Cleveland Way, Lyke Wake Walk and the White Rose way route. Maps are available at the visitor centers.
Cycling and mountain biking
Fishing and sailing
Attend an outdoor concert at Dalby Forest
Visit the Captain Cook & Staithes Heritage Centre Museum
Be sure to visit the local pub.
The National park is also a Dark Sky Reserve, which makes for excellent stargazing conditions.

Map of Staithes and North York Moors National Park

What was filmed in Staithes?

This picturesque little village of Staithes is already famous for various films:

For example, its part in the CBBC series ‘Old Jack’s Boat, which starred Bernard Cribbins as Old Jack and his trusty shipmate, Salty the dog. Furthermore its cobbled streets featured in the 2017 film ‘Phantom Thread’ starring Daniel Day-Lewis.
The North York Moors featured in this classic children’s adventure film, ‘The Runaways’ as well as the movie Downton Abbey. You will recognize Pickering station on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway in the film’s opening scenes.

Spot the film sites and visit the actual garden:

The classic children’s novel The Secret Garden: Some of the filming took place in the North York Moors. Film spots you can visit include Helmsley Walled Garden (the secret garden), Helmsley Castle and Duncombe Park in Helmsley, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, plus moorland shots in Farndale, Goathland (Wheeldale Roman Road) and Rievaulx Moor.

What is Staithes famous for?

DID YOU KNOW: Staithes is also famous because, in the early 1990s, a rare fossil of a seagoing dinosaur was discovered after a rockfall between Staithes and Port Mulgrave.

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Is it worth visiting Staithes?

With its distinctive red-roofed cottages cascading down the cliffs, Staithes beckons travelers seeking a tranquil escape by the sea.

Why Visit Staithes:

Quaint Seaside Charm: Staithes exudes a timeless appeal, with narrow winding streets leading to a quaint harbor where fishing boats bob gently on the tide.
Artistic Heritage: This village was once home to renowned artist Captain James Cook. Today, it continues to inspire painters and creatives with its scenic landscapes and captivating seascapes.
Fossil Hunting: Unearth the secrets of the past on Staithes’ fossil-rich beaches. This area is a haven for fossil enthusiasts, offering a chance to discover prehistoric treasures embedded in the rocks.
Coastal Walks: Lace up your walking shoes and explore the Cleveland Way National Trail, which passes through Staithes. Revel in breathtaking views of the North Sea and surrounding cliffs during your coastal adventure.
Fresh Seafood Delights: Indulge in the local gastronomic scene by savoring fresh seafood at the village’s charming eateries. Staithes is a seafood lover’s paradise.

Travel Tips for your trip to Staithes

Fossil Hunting Adventure: Staithes boasts a rich geological history, making it a haven for fossil enthusiasts. Tip one: Pack sturdy footwear and join a guided fossil hunting tour. The village’s beaches reveal ancient treasures, providing a unique and educational experience. Don’t forget your camera to capture the excitement of discovering prehistoric remnants embedded in the rocks.

Scenic Coastal Walks: For an immersive experience of Staithes’ breathtaking beauty, tip two is to explore the Cleveland Way National Trail. Lace up comfortable walking shoes and embark on the cliffside paths, offering panoramic views of the North Sea. Capture the stunning landscapes and enjoy the fresh sea breeze as you traverse this scenic trail. It’s a great way to absorb the coastal charm of the village.

Culinary Delights by the Sea: Indulge your taste buds with tip three – savor the local seafood delicacies. Staithes is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering fresh catches prepared to perfection. Visit the village’s charming eateries and sample dishes like locally caught fish and chips or seafood platters. Enjoy your meal with a backdrop of the harbor, immersing yourself in the authentic maritime atmosphere.

Where to stay in Staithes

There are a few very cute options for overnight accommodation. If you love the peacefulness of a seaside country retreat, this little village is the place to overnight. (A perfect English countryside travel destination.)