A “picture postcard” village on the North Yorkshire coast has been crowned one of the best hidden gems in England – and it’s easy to see why.
Runswick Bay, nestled just nine miles north of Whitby between Sandsend and Staithes, has wowed visitors with its “secluded” bay, “gorgeous” beach and “amazing views,” reports York Press.
The charming village, perched on the edge of the North Sea, earned a glowing 4.5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor, and has now been recognised by outdoor specialists Millets in their latest travel roundup.
The experts compiled their list of Britain’s top hidden gems using tips from Reddit, TikTok and travel articles, before checking Tripadvisor ratings to highlight the best of the bunch.
Millets blog author and outdoor enthusiast Sam Chadwick said: “In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors, with hotspots like Mam Tor and Scafell Pike growing in popularity. We have compiled a list of England’s best hidden gems, for those who want to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying the outdoors.”
And Runswick Bay certainly fits the bill.
Described by its official website as “a picture postcard North Yorkshire coastal village, boasting a mile of secluded bay and gorgeous beach”, the area is popular with fossil hunters, walkers and even those hoping to spot a dolphin or seal in the waves.
Its sandy beach forms part of the Cleveland Way, a celebrated coastal path. The bay itself is ideal for building sandcastles and exploring rockpools at low tide, while at high tide, a jetty offers a great platform for crabbing.
“Seals, dolphins and whales have all been spotted in the waters, which are excellent for fishing, especially cod and mackerel,” the website adds.
Visitors have left more than 400 glowing reviews on Tripadvisor, many singling out the “relaxing” beachfront café for praise.
One reviewer wrote: “We walked here from Staithes, lovely walk with amazing views (steep in places). Well worth the walk! Cafe at Runswick bay was lovely, great coffee and cakes, lovely place to sit and relax before walking back. We had our dog in tow and she was made welcome at the cafe.”
Another added: “Absolutely stunning! Well worth a walk along the beach and doing a bit of fossil hunting, glass spotting, shell collecting. Lovely ice cream.”
A third commented: “We are here for easter weekend, we visited the lovely modern cafe just on the beachfront, delicious cakes and light bites and beverages. Lovely staff and plenty of seats although we imagine it will get busy. Will definitely be back as its perfectly positioned to sit eat a slice of yummy cakes and a cuppa tea while u admire the views. The beach was great so happy to see so many dogs enjoying themselves and not a poo bag in sight as mentioned previously. We found so lovely fossils so interesting.”
One guest even revealed they were inspired to visit after watching Villages by the Sea on the BBC.
“Had to come here as Ben Robinson the archaeologist came here from his programmes ‘Villages by the Sea’ and he was not not wrong, beautiful houses, I found most of what he showed on his programme. Lovely walk and dog run along the beach. Fabulous, Thanks Ben.”
Is there free parking at Runswick Bay?
According to Yorkshire Coastal Cottages: “There are two main car parks in Runswick Bay.”
“The car park closest to the beach is chargeable throughout spring and summer, but get in quick as there are only 80 spaces. Pop the postcode TS13 5HT into your satnav and you’re away. You’ll pay a minimum charge of £3.00 between the months of March and October.”
They add: “In busier periods, you’ll find a second car park at the top of the hill, a bit further away from the beach. With over 100 spaces and charged at £6 for 24 hours, it’s well worth the trek, even just for the breathtaking views along the way.”
Please note car park charges may vary.