Year of the Coast

2023 is the Year of the Coast, and, with 26 miles of shoreline set here in the North York Moors National Park – sandwiched between beautiful countryside and the North Sea – there’s no better time to visit!

The days will soon be a little longer, temperatures warmer and North Yorkshire’s breath-taking coast will be waking up to spring. Where sweeping sandy beaches and daisy-strewn moorland awaits.

Spring is a fantastic time to visit, as the weather is usually pleasant, but the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived, so you can explore the seaside towns, coastal walks and wonderful wildlife in relative peace.

Events season is just beginning, too, providing plenty to keep you entertained during your spring stay.

Superb seaside towns

Scarborough, where the North Yorkshire Moors meets the sea, is a gem among UK coastal towns.

With its wide sandy beaches, streets lined with traditional shops and a busy working harbour, this charming coastal spot has it all.

Spend the morning browsing a traditional town, before heading to the many amusement arcades.

Get lost among nature

Bempton Cliffs near Bridlington, is home to half-a-million seabirds soaring above the chalk cliffs.

During spring, you can spot guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, gulls, fulmars and shags nesting here, as well as the largest seabird in the UK, the majestic gannet, and we can’t forget everyone’s favourite – the puffin!

The shorelines of Whitby and Saltburn are also great for sea life spotting, regularly scattered with fin, sei, pilot, mink and humpback whales, as well as porpoise – though it is important to admire these wonderful wildlife from a safe distance. If prepared for a climb, the Ravenscar seals are well worth quietly visiting.

Great food for the sole

When you think of the coast, most think of fish and chips, and for a very good reason, of course.

Whitby, though, is not only crammed with award-winning fish and chip shops, but because it’s a working port, the catch is a fresh as you can get! The crab and lobster landing across our shores is also not only enjoyed locally, but shipped to restaurants worldwide – so make sure to try some whilst you are here.

Plenty for all to enjoy

With springtime, comes the start of events season and North Yorkshire’s beaches, towns and attractions are filled with music, fantastic floral displays, thrilling shows and mouth-watering food. So what are you waiting for? Spring into spring with a stay on the coast.