Relax and Explore at Runswick Bay.

Discover the peaceful charm of Runswick Bay.

If you’re dreaming of wide- open sands, peaceful seaside strolls, and a village full of old-world charm, we suggest you relax and explore at Runswick Bay for a peaceful day out it is the perfect escape during your stay with us. Find out why it’s one of our favourite spots as a hidden coastal gem on the Yorkshire Coast — and why we think you’ll love it too.

If you’re looking for somewhere truly special to visit during your stay with us, we always recommend Runswick Bay. This beautiful little village on the North Yorkshire coast feels like a real hidden gem. With its red-roofed cottages spilling down the hillside and a wide, sandy beach, it’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and simply enjoy the quieter pace of life.

One of the loveliest things about Runswick Bay is that it offers a true sense of peace in every season. Even in the summer months, it feels quieter and more relaxed than many other coastal spots, making it a perfect escape if you love a gentler pace of life.

We love how peaceful it feels, where you can Relax and Explore at Runswick Bay even in the height of summer. It’s a place where you can take your time wandering through the pretty narrow streets, admiring the colourful gardens and charming cottages.

The village itself is a joy to explore, with its tiny lanes and secret corners. Every twist and turn seems to reveal another picture-perfect view, whether it’s a charming garden gate, an old fishing boat, or the endless blue of the sea.

The views are spectacular too, stretching out over the sweep of the bay and beyond. It’s no wonder this spot has captured the hearts of so many artists and photographers over the years — the light here always seems extra special.

The beach is one of our favourites. At low tide, the sands stretch far and wide, a perfect opportunity to Relax and Explore at Runswick Bay for a gentle stroll along the water’s edge or simply sitting and soaking up the tranquility. The peacefulness of this beach is what makes it so special — it’s a real escape from the busyness of everyday life.

One of the joys of visiting Runswick Bay is that you can do as much or as little as you like.

Some guests enjoy simply wandering along the shore with a coffee in hand, while others head off along the Cleveland Way for a scenic walk. The coastal paths here offer breathtaking views, and if you fancy a longer walk, you can head towards Sandsend, another beautiful spot with its own quiet beach and a handful of lovely places to stop for a drink or lunch. The Cleveland Way footpath runs above the bay, offering incredible views down across the rooftops and over the sweep of the sands. It’s a perfect gentle walk if you want to see the bay from a different perspective.

There’s a welcoming little café right on the seafront at Runswick Bay, housed in the old lifeboat station, where you can enjoy a tea or coffee and a slice of homemade cake. The Royal Hotel, perched above the village, is another good option if you fancy a leisurely drink or meal while gazing out over the sea.

One of the things we love most about being able to Relax and Explore at Runswick Bay is how close it is to so many other wonderful places. Just a short drive away, you can visit Staithes, another picture-perfect fishing village full of character and a rich artistic heritage — perfect for a relaxed amble and maybe a gallery browse. Saltwick Bay is not far either, offering a more dramatic coastal scene and a brilliant spot for a quieter, rugged walk along the cliffs.

A little further along the coast, you’ll find Whitby, famous for its Abbey ruins, historic charm, and of course, its delicious fish and chips. Whitby’s cobbled streets and independent shops are perfect for a gentle day of exploring. If you’re planning a trip there, we also have a blog about the best things to see and do in Whitby to help you make the most of it.

Visiting Runswick Bay is about a 45-minute drive from Scarborough, and it’s easy to reach by car. There’s convenient parking at the top of the village, and while the walk down to the beach is a little steep, it’s more than worth the effort for the views and the sense of stepping into somewhere truly special.

We really believe you can Relax and Explore at Runswick Bay where it offers the visitor that rare combination of natural beauty, tranquillity, and old-fashioned seaside charm. It’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself thinking back to long after your visit. If you’re planning your stay with us, it’s well worth making some time to visit this enchanting spot. And if you’re keen to explore a little more of the Yorkshire Coast, why not also take a look at our guides to Staithes and Whitby? Each one offers something a little different but equally magical.