Magical seaside village that’s a hidden gem often overshadowed by its famous neighbours
- UK Hidden Gems
- Dec 28, 2025
- 2 min read
If you are looking for your next seaside break, this lovely village could be just what you are searching for.
Set between Saltburn and Whitby, this historic fishing village is ideal for anyone who enjoys a slow and peaceful walk.
With winding cobbled streets leading down to the harbour and rows of cosy cottages painted in red and cream, almost every corner of this beautiful Yorkshire village feels picture perfect.
Once a busy fishing port, the village has kept its seaside feel, but today it is better known for scenic walks than for fishing boats.
Visitors can explore small art galleries and cosy tearooms, or head down to the pebbled beach where families enjoy hunting for fossils and spotting crabs.
As the Cleveland Way runs straight through the village, it is a great place to begin clifftop walks with stunning views across the North Sea.
The village is also well known for its artistic past, as it was home to the Staithes Group of painters. Each year, the Staithes Arts Festival fills the village with open studios and creative displays.
The Heritage Centre is also worth visiting, especially because of its connection to Captain Cook, who spent part of his early life here before his famous voyages.
Staithes is a great place for families to visit, although the steep streets can make it tricky for pushchairs.
For anyone planning to stay overnight, Staithes offers plenty of charming cottages, many with lovely views out to sea.
Located between Saltburn and Whitby on the North Yorkshire coast, Staithes is easiest to reach by car.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
Download the official APP!
Gain access to over 1,600 hidden gems and their co-ordinates all over the UK when you download our app. Add gems to your bucket-list and tick them off as you go along, as well as earn rewards/badges when you visit a certain amount.
Users will also have acess to over 9,000 parking spots across the UK as well as over 1,600 staycations in the UK.
