The North Yorkshire Coast, a captivating stretch of coastline, brimming with picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and charming towns, offers visitors a splendid opportunity to explore the charm of Northern England. In this blog post, I will recount my delightful day trip to Kettleness, Runswick Bay, and Saltburn-by-the-Sea.
Our day began with an invigorating hike at Kettleness, a small hamlet perched atop a cliff, overlooking the North Sea. The trail we followed is part of the Cleveland Way, a National Trail spanning over 100 miles of beautiful scenery. As we meandered through the undulating terrain, the breathtaking views of the coastline and the crashing waves below accompanied us throughout the journey.
One of the highlights of our Kettleness adventure was searching for fossils. This area is well-known for its rich geological history, and keen-eyed visitors can discover ancient treasures hidden within the rocks. Although we didn’t unearth any particularly impressive specimens, the excitement of combing the cliffside for a glimpse into prehistoric times was a thrilling experience.
After our hike, we made our way to the enchanting Runswick Bay, a quaint village nestled in a natural cove. The charming, red-roofed cottages that line the narrow streets make for a picturesque scene. We took the time to sit on the sandy beach, marvelling at the stunning view of the bay and the boats bobbing in the water. The tranquil atmosphere was perfect for a spot of relaxation and reflection, as we listened to the soothing sound of the waves lapping against the shore.
Feeling rejuvenated, we then ventured to the historic Victorian town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea. This delightful seaside resort boasts a wealth of attractions, including the Saltburn Cliff Lift, which transported us from the town to the beach below. The lift, built in 1884, is a marvel of Victorian engineering and offers an intriguing glimpse into the town’s past.
No trip to the seaside would be complete without indulging in a classic British dish: fish and chips. We dined at a local chippy, where we were treated to a mouth-watering meal of crispy battered fish, golden chips, and a side of mushy peas. The portions were generous, and the food was cooked to perfection, making for a satisfying conclusion to our culinary experience in Saltburn-by-the-Sea.
For those with a sweet tooth, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the Saltburn Pier and treating yourself to a traditional stick of rock or an ice cream from one of the many kiosks. The pier itself, which stretches out into the North Sea, provides an ideal vantage point for admiring the town’s picturesque seafront and the dramatic cliffs that surround it.
Before we bid farewell to this charming coastal town, we took a moment to explore the enchanting Saltburn Valley Gardens. This tranquil green space, crisscrossed by meandering pathways and filled with vibrant flowers and lush foliage, provided a peaceful retreat from the bustling seafront.
Our day trip to the North Yorkshire Coast was nothing short of delightful. From the exhilarating hike in Kettleness and fossil hunting adventure to the serene beauty of Runswick Bay and the vibrant charm of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, we were captivated by the region’s diverse offerings. If you’re looking for a captivating and enjoyable day out, we wholeheartedly recommend a visit to these charming coastal gems.