Seaside escapes: coastal places to stay in Yorkshire
Running from the Tees estuary to the Humber estuary, the Yorkshire coast ribbons for more than 100 miles along the east of England, showcasing soaring cliffs and rocky shores, carpets of wildflowers and masses of birdlife. Potter around Whitby and Scarborough, quintessential seaside towns, and go beyond Robin Hood’s Bay to discover hidden coves and secret bays dotted along the Heritage Coast. Take up a position as close to the coast as you can by staying at this selection of coastal places to stay in Yorkshire.
Breaday Gill, Scarborough
This converted stone barn sits comfortably amongst fields, woodlands and hidden valleys. There are walks from the door, world-class hill climbs and forest trails to tempt cyclists, Whitby, Boggle Hole cove and Robin Hood’s Bay on the Heritage coast are all a short drive. Inside, find mid-century furniture and slick styling, underfloor heating, a glowing wood burner and strong eco credentials.
The oak-beamed living space is inviting, bedrooms have big beds and en suite bathrooms. You can load up with Yorkshire’s finest produce at the Friday farmers’ market and cook in the open plan kitchen which has a chilled bottle of Prosecco and fresh milk in the fridge. Cook outdoors on summer evenings and watch stars in this Dark Sky reserve.
“Breaday Gill was a perfect find. The property is squeaky clean, very private, extremely quiet and spacious. Our very smiley host, Lorna, was delightful.” – Guest, Diana
The Hayloft at Flamborough Rigg
An 1820s farmhouse at the end of a quiet road in the North York Moors National Park, overlooking a forest for walks and cycle rides straight from the door. It’s a spectacular 25-minute drive across the moors to seaside Whitby and Sandsend. This is a generous place, where you’ll arrive to a superb breakfast hamper including homemade jams in the roomy kitchen. If you are bringing children there will be games, books and lots of space to play, inside and out.
Even your dog gets a super welcome with throws, treats, towels and info on dog-friendly places to eat. Doze on the pretty sun terrace under a vine or snuggle up by the wood burner with a good book if it rains.
“The cottage is superb with gorgeous views over the garden while you do the washing up. Our cockapoo enjoyed going for long walks from the front door.” – Guest, Derek
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Tickton Grange, near Beverley
This secluded Georgian country house hotel with gracious rooms, fine dining and charming grounds is a delight. Stroll through four acres of formal gardens, parklands and fields, feel pampered by meticulous attention to detail, and be at the coast in half an hour. Dinner looks like a work of art served on specially commissioned and hand-painted Royal Crown Derby china.
Your country-chic bedroom comes with dressing gowns and eye masks, plus biscuits on your pillow. Start the day with breakfast, potter around historic Beverley — it’s only a five-minute drive — and return for afternoon tea that could put the Ritz to shame.
“Head into Beverley to discover the Minster, with its origins in the 700s it’s considered a Gothic masterpiece and is a real joy to walk around.” – Owner, Helen
Egton Estate, Egton Bridge
Come for sumptuous bedrooms, a big fireplace, a comfortable sitting room and generous breakfasts with home-laid eggs. You’re tucked above the old stables and surrounded by 6,000 acres of woodland, river, moors and meadows — the walking is wonderful throughout the estate. Or you can join the Coast to Coast path which runs alongside it.
Wildlife is in abundance: you’ll see otters and kingfishers if you stay hushed, there are herons skulking by the river and you can fly fish along the river. A five-minute walk will take you to the Horseshoe Hotel and a farm shop which sells local produce. Pack up a picnic on fine days and head to one of many wide sandy beaches. Egton station is a two-minute walk for a train to Whitby.
“We enjoyed the friendly hospitality of Laura and Olly, delicious breakfasts and comfortable bed. Within easy distance of Whitby and the beautiful North York Moors.” – Guest, Carrie
Union Place, Whitby
This listed Adam-style Georgian townhouse is elegance epitomised. Lofty rooms with polished floors and original features are dotted with quirky objets: bead-and-embroidery lampshades and chandeliers, bone china, a small mirrored Indian ceramic child’s dress – and your urbane host Richard’s accomplished paintings.
His studio is at the bottom of the garden and you’re welcome to pop in – you might be tempted to buy too. Bedrooms have charm and breakfast is unbeatable. Head out to cliff-top views or wander around historic Whitby – you’re just a 10-minute stroll from the harbour — walk all day on the North York Moors, go on a fishing trip, hunt for fossils and kick your shoes off on the Blue Flag beach.
“We very much enjoyed our stay at Union Place. This historic house is beautifully decorated and the dedicated living room has a beautiful view on the garden.” – Guest, Brigitte
Crag House Farm Barns, Whitby
Fabulous for walks on the moors and just 15-minutes to the coast, two light, lofty and award-winning barn conversions each sleep six in stylish comfort in the North York Moors National Park. Luxuriate with wood burners and LED mood lights, white doves and verdant lawns, soaring views over Danby Dale and the national park.
There are large gardens too and sheltered barbecue areas – private, apart from the odd sheep peeping in. It’s all so generous and well thought out: logs are free, the wine is own-label, warm scones wait in the oven. And if you need more sophisticated catering, your eco-minded hosts can arrange that, too. Bram Stoker fans can explore Whitby, surfers can take to the waves, walkers can yomp across clifftops.
“Divine. A truly magical hideaway – to be respected and enjoyed for its serenity. All that you could possibly wish for was to be found here.” – Guest, Maria
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