Runswick Bay cottages

Runswick Bay cottages

One of Yorkshire's prettiest coastal locations, Runswick Bay is characterised by charming red-roofed cottages that cling to the hillside above a sweeping, sheltered bay. The sandy beach, dog-friendly all year, is perfect for family fun. Swim, explore the rock pools, build sandcastles and play ball games. At high tide the jetty is an excellent spot for crabbing; look out for seals, dolphins and whales in the waters beyond. Runswick Bay is an excellent holiday base for walkers, with the Cleveland Way running along the beach. Make light work of your self-catering stay with visits to the village cafe, tea shop and hotel bars. For holiday souvenirs, search for Jurassic fossils – they’re common along this part of the Yorkshire Coast. 

Runswick Bay is a great base for exploring the North Yorkshire coast and countryside. Walk the Cleveland Way north to Staithes, a village full of historical quirks, or head south to foodie-favourite Sandsend. Venture further and a bustling harbour, cliff-top abbey ruins and countless fish and chip restaurants are synonymous with Whitby. Take a tour of the town’s gothic yards, cobbled streets and traditional seaside amusements for a full taste of local life. Catch a North Yorkshire Moors Railway train from Whitby for a car-free day out in the national park. Alternatively, drive to the Danby Lodge visitor centre, where family-friendly activities include a fabulous children’s adventure playground and climbing cave. Choose a Runswick Bay self-catering cottage and you’re close to many of North Yorkshire’s key holiday hotspots.