Journal

10 Popular Pubs in Staithes

Made up of vibrant cities, charming towns and pint-sized villages, there's no shortage of watering holes in God’s own country.

Our Favourite Pubs in Staithes

From karaoke nights to quiet cosy snugs ideal for dogs, there are plenty of pubs in Staithes, Yorkshire – right by awe-inspiring locations such as Runswick Bay.

If you’re heading up to explore the Yorkshire coastline, you’ll find Staithes close by to the abovementioned bay, as well as busier seaside towns like Whitby. Staithes itself offers a quiet fishing village with a much more localised feel, but it’s no less welcoming. See if for yourself and try a few local delicacies or sample some Yorkshire ales.

These pubs near Staithes offer the perfect lunch or evening out for the whole family. Which one will you choose?

Adults sat around a table toasting pints of beer


1. The Fox & Hounds

Part pub, part cosy living room, The Fox and Hounds is a classically decorated snug tucked away in Dalehouse, Staithes. One foot through the door of this pub near Staithes and you’ll feel like you’re going back in time – in a good way, of course.

There are no distractions like televisions or pool tables, just quiet, relaxed areas for you to sit back and have a quick rest. You will find a full menu, but make sure you bring your wallet with you, as it’s cash only.


2. The Royal George

If you’re looking for a meal with a view, you’ve come to the right place. This 5-star award-winning pub is located at the bottom of Staithes village, just 100 yards from the sea. Where better to enjoy a pit stop following a scenic pier walk?

Join in for a drink with friends or treat yourself to a full meal. Choose from crab sandwiches to hearty steak and ale pies. There’s also a secluded beer garden for those summer drinks, and if you venture down on a Friday night, you can test your trivia with a pub quiz.


3. Cod & Lobster

Known as the ‘last defence from the ravages of the North Sea’, the Cod and Lobster is the perfect refuge for those visiting Yorkshire seaside towns. It even serves as a chapter in local history, dating back to 1953 when the last of the seafront was washed away in a great storm, and bottles went with it.

When weather is very bad, locals are even instructed to enter through an alternative door! Enjoy homecooked meals and even take the dog along, if you can make it past the unpredictable Yorkshire weather.

An external shot of the Cod & Lobster


4. The Captain Cook Inn

This pub in Staithes, Yorkshire, is named after the famous explorer, who makes up much of the county’s maritime history. Here you’ll find a selection of real ales, ideal for a winter pint as voted for by the CAMRA group.

There is also a varied menu featuring a specials board and Sunday lunches. Choose from the cosy dining room or head outside if you’re visiting in summer. Look out for live music gigs too, which are a regular occurrence at The Captain Cook Inn.


5. Excelsior Fisheries

If you’re after a bit of grub without the beer bloat, head to Excelsior Fisheries. Serving up classic fish and chips, Excelsior provides a warm welcome on Staithes Lane. Tuck into locally sourced seafood including cod and haddock, as well as fishcakes, chip buttons and steak pies. It’s even open for extended hours during the summer holidays, so grab yourself a lunchbox deal and look out upon the sea.


6. The Badger Hounds

Head over to Hinderwell for the perfect retreat nestled between Runswick Bay, Staithes and The Cleveland Way. This friendly North Yorkshire pub offers regular events including a monthly quiz, as well as pizza and pasta nights and special themed drinks. Under new ownership as of October 2022, The Badger Hounds offers stunningly presented food and al fresco dining. Dogs are welcome in the bar and lounge area, so bring the whole family along.

People sat around a table with pizza and beer


7. The Ellerby Country Inn Restaurant

With a chocolate box aesthetic, The Ellerby Country Inn restaurant is an award-winning restaurant within a stone’s throw of Runswick Bay and Staithes.

Here you can tuck into locally sourced food and drink, as well as host your own celebrations in a private function room. Food is served throughout the day from 8 ‘til 8, so you can enjoy a range of hot and cold options. There’s even room for your four-legged friends to join in.


8. Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom

Just like the chippy, this one’s technically not a pub in Staithes put it definitely warrants a mention! The quiet and cosy eatery is decked out head to toe in purple walls and opulent lampshades, offering the perfect setting for a traditional tea and scone. You’ll also find vegan and gluten free options, with meals served at breakfast, lunch and brunch. Climb the hill and have a rest in style.


9. The Ship Inn

Now for something a little different, this is no ordinary North Yorkshire pub. It’s a contemporary and vintage setting with both afternoon tea foods and stronger tipples, including Yorkshire spritzers.

Gorge yourself on refreshing treats such as eggs Florentine before heading back out for a clifftop walk. And if you are looking for something traditional, don’t forget you can always opt for a Sunday roast dinner, or check out their sister bar, The Reunion.

A person using a knife and fork to cut into a beef dinner on a plate


10. The Brown Cow

The Brown Cow is one of the best pubs in Staithes for sports fans – showing your favourite games and treating you to a good old knees-up at the same time. Head down to this historic Hinderwell pub for a local ale and lots of fun.

The venue is known for hosting entertainment including karaoke and drinks promotions when your team wins! You can also tuck into pub classics such as steak, lasagne or sausage and mash – and there’s even room for you to bring the dog.

Ideal for birdwatching, fishing or even whale watching, Staithes is a fantastic getaway 365 days a year. Why not try a little Yorkshire hospitality too?


Has our list of the most popular pubs in Staithes got you eager to whet your whistle? Make the most of your adventure with a stay in one of our Staithes holiday cottages.

And for more ways to spend your time in our wonderful county, give our guide on 4 fabulous days out in North Yorkshire a read. 

There’s plenty of adventures to be had with our blog on 5 scenic walks in Staithes.