Steer well clear of tourists and their pesky camera straps in this idyllic bay boasting a mile of secluded beach and cobalt waters. Every year, thousands of tourists flock to the town of Whitby, lured in by its golden sands, quaint cobbled alleys and vampire-based history.
While there is no denying Whitby is a great place to bask in the sun, treat yourself to some of the UK’s best fish and chips, or even experience the iconic Goth Weekend – this seaside resort has slowly become a little too saturated with holidaymakers. If you visit during the peak seasons such as summer, expect huge bustling crowds which can spoil the fairytale magic (and means you’ll be packed onto the beach like a sardine).
However, just an 18-minute drive from the hotspot lies a hidden gem that has incredibly managed to escape the tourist limelight. Welcome, to the picture postcard village of Runswick Bay.
“Situated nine miles north of Whitby, Runswick Bay nestles in between Sandsend and Staithes, and forms part of the Cleveland Way which runs along its beach,” explains the area’s tourist board. “It is part of the Jurassic coast and famed for its fossils.”
The pristine beach is a great place to spend the day building sandcastles, scouring the rock pools for crabs, or embracing the freezing cold waters. “Seals, dolphins and whales have all been spotted in the waters, which are excellent for fishing, especially cod and mackerel,” Runswick Bay added.
It’s a great place for dog owners too, proudly offering one of the few beaches along Yorkshire’s coastline that doesn’t impose restrictions on our furry friends. After a day playing on the beach, heading over to the Royal Hotel for a well-deserved pint and dinner is a must.
Here, you’ll find breathtaking views over the sweeping bay and rugged cliffs, perfectly accompanied with home cooked meals and range of local beers. After the sun melts behind the horizon and the cold creeps in, you can get all cosy next to the fire inside.
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Over 270 miles from London, getting to Runswick Bay from the Big Smoke would take almost five hours in the car. Alternatively, you could get a train over to Marske (which takes around three hours and 15 minutes) before getting a 25-minute taxi ride over to the coast. If you’re flexible with dates, a single adult fare costs around £40.
Accommodation in Runswick can be pricey due to its unspoilt nature and lack of competition. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, April 25-27) at the Puffins Rest holiday home would set you back £395, based on two adults sharing. A bigger four-bedroom holiday home costs a staggering £761 on the exact same dates.
*Prices based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
What’s your favourite UK seaside resort? Let us know in the comments section below
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