Things to do in Runswick Bay

Runswick Bay

Runswick Bay is delightful, one of Yorkshire’s coast’s prettiest bays boasting glorious golden sands.

Narrow paths wind between the picturesque cottages and houses with small colourful gardens. The thatched property on the seafront is believed to be one of the last remaining thatched houses on the Yorkshire coast.

The village appears to cling to the steep hillside. Although seemingly ageless, the complete village was rebuilt in 1682 due to a massive landslip. The village offers a camping and caravan site, two hotels, a restaurant, cafe/tea shop, public house serving bar meals, a church and picnic area. There is also a regular bus service connecting to the popular seaside town of Whitby.

The wide sandy bay is a favourite for families and for yachtsmen – The Bay also has a thriving yacht club situated right on the beach.

Things to do in Runswick Bay

1. Enjoy a Meal Out

The village has two pubs and a hotel on the cliff top – so you can enjoy eating out as well as self-catering during your holiday.

There is a charming cafe on the seafront – stock up with nets, buckets and spades and dinghies whilst enjoying their range of sandwiches, homemade cakes, scones and tea!  Our preference is sipping mugs of steaming Horlicks, especially in the cooler months, whilst wrapped up on the beach.

2. Explore the Village on Foot

Wander around this picturesque village, with its maze-like paths and its lovely sea-facing cottages with their pretty gardens. The iconic white-washed, thatched cottage with its palm tree, featured in many postcards, is at the far end, facing out to sea.

Runswick Bay’s red-roofed cottages, winding streets and its tranquil hamlet are all worth exploring. Keep your eyes peeled for the two natural springs that can be found in the village.

3. Take on Some Watersports

The bay has a lifeboat station plus Runswick’s own sailing club. Runswick Bay Lifeboat Station opened in 1866 and is managed entirely by volunteers. The lifeboat station is a great reason to venture out and enjoy the fresh, salty air.

Runswick Bay boasts calm waters, ideal for a spot of Stand Up Paddleboarding or kayaking. This is a great way to explore the coast from a different perspective.

4. Hike Along the Cleveland Way

Runswick Bay is on the Cleveland Way – a superb five-mile walk along the cliff tops, with its breath-taking views, takes you to Sandsend – and there’s a bus back if you feel too tired to do the return walk!

Don’t forget to take your time and enjoy the views – with spectacular scenery across the coast and sea.

5. Spend a Day at the Beach

Runswick Bay is home to an idyllic sandy beach. Spend a morning fossil hunting with the kids or explore the nearby rock pools. The beach is sheltered from the northern winds thanks to Lingrow Knowle, providing a calming place to relax and take in the sights.

Things to do near Runswick Bay

A five-minute drive takes you to Ellerby, a small village that is home to The Ellerby Arms, which serves good food.  Sandsend, which has cafes, shops, an inn and an award-winning restaurant, is a ten-minute drive.

A further five minutes takes you to the popular town of Whitby with its harbour, pier and iconic Whitby Abbey – inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula – as well as many shops, restaurants and shops.

Inspired by these things to in Runswick Bay? Enjoy a holiday in this beautiful part of the country and stay in one of these holiday cottages in Runswick Bay. if you’d like to stay a little further afield, here’s our rundown on our favourite places to stay in Yorkshire.