The national press have named one of Yorkshire’s hidden gems as the finest in the land.
The amazing accolade of Britain’s Best Beach has been given to the spectacular sands at Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire by The Times in their Annual Guide to the Country’s Best Beaches.
Nestled in a bay between the fabulous fishing village of Staithes and wonderful Whitby, Runswick Bay has an unspoilt quality that is simply stunning and inviting.
The Times chose this beautiful beach at Runswick as its favourite, where fossil-hunters, dolphin-watchers, fishermen and families enjoy its spectacular sands. Described as ‘close to perfection’ by travel writer Chris Haslam, who has compiled the annual Beach Guide since 2008, this year’s Yorkshire beaches also featured include Spurn Head and Fraisthorpe in the East Riding, plus Filey’s Hunmanby Gap and Redcar and Cleveland’s Marske-by-the-Sea.
Runswick Bay captured the coveted title with its spacious sands for fine castle-building, with paddleboards and kayaks for hire and three freshwater streams for damming, plus swimming, rockpools and fishing spots, as well as great spots for fossil hunters at nearby Kettleness Sands.
It’s canine-friendly too, dogs are welcome, the beach has excellent water quality, toilet facilities and refreshment kiosks. There are only 80 parking spaces, ensuring natural social distancing and a peaceful experience.
The village has become a popular stop-off point for walkers between Staithes and Whitby, and it also attracts keen photographers looking to capture beautiful images of the Yorkshire Coast.
With magical Hob Holes (caves, which according to local legend, were home to goblins who could cure children of whooping cough!), plus sightings of bottlenose dolphins and wildlife-watching boat trips it’s the perfect day out or staycation with its fantastic seaside accommodation.
One of the most iconic features of the village is the sight of the terracott roofed cottages that cling to the side of the cliff. While the population at the village remains low, it has become a highly desirable property location in recent years.
