Just a short drive from the well-trodden streets of Whitby lies a coastal gem that offers a profoundly different kind of seaside experience. Runswick Bay, a picturesque fishing village nestled on the Yorkshire coast, provides a peaceful retreat with its stunning, often quiet beach and dramatic cliffside setting.
A Haven for Nature and Tranquillity
The main draw is undoubtedly the beautiful, mile-long bay. This sheltered beach is a favourite spot for wildlife watchers, with seals frequently spotted along the shore. When the tide goes out, a world of rockpools is revealed, teeming with marine life, while the calmer waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. The village itself, with its charming cottages stacked precariously on the cliffs, was rebuilt after a devastating landslide in 1682, giving it its unique, cascading appearance today.
Walking the Cleveland Way National Trail
For walkers, Runswick Bay is a highlight on the renowned Cleveland Way National Trail. The path leads directly into the village as it meets the coastline. While the full trail takes between seven and 11 days to complete, many visitors enjoy shorter stretches, often walking north towards Sandsend and Whitby or south in the direction of Saltburn-by-the-Sea. One hiker praised the route for its "amazing views all along the coastline" and the plentiful options to rest and refuel.
A Village Transformed by Time
The Runswick Bay visitors enjoy today is a product of its dramatic past. Following the 1682 landslide, the community was rebuilt slightly to the south, creating the iconic cliff-hugging layout. During the summer, the population swells to around 2,300 people as holidaymakers fill the many cosy cottages available for rent, which often stand empty during the colder months. Recent visitors on TripAdvisor have described it as "tranquil" and "pretty," with one noting the "stunning views down to the bay" from the hillside paths.
Located just nine miles north of Whitby—a journey of less than 20 minutes—Runswick Bay stands as a serene and scenic alternative for those seeking fresh coastal air, breathtaking scenery, and a genuine connection with Yorkshire's natural beauty.
