10 best beaches in driving distance (Yorkshire)
Sunny days are just around the corner, and so are beach trips! We’re expecting an uptick in beach visits this year with the Great British Staycation in full swing, so it’s the perfect time to start preparing and beat the crowds – social distancing remains in place, after all.
Culture Southwest believes that the last year’s many changes will make people more impulsive when it comes to days out, rather than planning day trips and holidays ahead – with this in mind, we’ve made it even easier to be spontaneous with a list of the top 10 closest beaches to Yorkshire! Next time there’s a sunny day, simply choose one from below, get in the car, and go…
Filey Beach
Less commercial than some of its East-Coast neighbours, it’s an ideal seaside location for young families or anyone looking for a fine stretch of good sand for walks, playing in the sand, kite-flying or even horse-riding. Dogs are restricted during peak seasons, and there is chargeable parking nearby.
Get directions here.
Scarborough Beach
Scarborough offers visitors two large, sandy bays, divided by a rocky promontory on which tower the majestic ruins of 11th century Scarborough Castle. Children will love building sandcastles, playing in the amusement arcades or splashing about in the waves. Dogs are restricted during peak seasons, and there is parking nearby that may be chargeable.
Get directions here.
Saltburn Beach
With a rich heritage dating back to the Victorian heyday, Saltburn Beach offers a historic pier with sand and shingle coastline that’s backed by a lovely promenade, meaning it’s perfect for a classic day at the seaside. Dogs are allowed on most areas of the beach, and there is a pay and display car park nearby.
Get directions here.
Whitby Beach
Whitby has beaches on both sides of the River Esk. On the east side is the smaller Tate Hill – a sheltered sandy beach that allows dogs all year round. On the other side of West Pier is West Cliff – a larger sandy beach with colourful beach huts, deckchair and windbreak hire, a children’s paddling pool and donkey rides (dogs not allowed on this side). There are plenty of nearby car parks, which may be chargeable.
Get directions here.
Robin Hood’s Bay
A true gem of the Yorkshire coastline, Robin Hood’s Bay has a fascinating smugglers’ history and brooding cliffs that tower over a village of quaint and charming cottages that go right down to the edge of the sea. It’s dog-friendly, and there is plenty of paid parking available.
Get directions here.
Runswick Bay
The charming Runswick Bay features red-roofed houses and colourful fishing boats, along with everything you need to enjoy a classic day out at the seaside: rock-pooling, fossil-hunting, sandcastle-building and plenty of long walks. It’s dog-friendly and there is plenty of paid parking available.
Get directions here.
Bridlington Beach
Bridlington Bay is the only large body of sheltered water on the Yorkshire coast, protecting it from the worst of the easterly gales. This all makes Bridlington an excellent place for boat trips into calm water and makes its long sandy beaches probably the safest on the Yorkshire coast. Dog restrictions apply, and paid parking is available nearby.
Get directions here.
Fraisthorpe Beach
Stretching all the way down to the Humber Estuary, Fraisthorpe is a flat and sandy beach that’s perfect for walking and exploring with the family. Backed by low clay cliffs, they offer spectacular views. Dogs are allowed and there is a paid car park close to the beach.
Get directions here.
Staithes Beach
Staithes is where the North York Moors National Park meets the sea and the towering, rugged cliffs are in keeping with this landscape. This stretch of coast is sometimes referred to as the Dinosaur Coast and is a popular spot for fossil-hunters. Dog-friendly all year round, there is parking (chargeable) nearby.
Get directions here.
Cayton Bay
Nestled in between Scarborough and Filey, Cayton Bay is a beautiful, sweeping beach that’s extremely popular during the holiday season. Dog-friendly all year round with clean water and affordable parking, it’s the ideal day out for family fun!
Get directions here.
Seen a beach you’d love to visit? It’s time to pack up the car and take a classic family road trip! Just make sure you remember the essentials, such as music (Queen and Ed Sheeran are family favourites), snacks and drinks, and, of course, your buckets and spades!
The most important thing to remember is to make sure your car is up to a long journey – especially if it’s not been in use for a while. Perrys can help with a health check and service for complete peace of mind before you set off. Looking for the perfect car for the trip? We think a spacious family SUV is just right for the job, offering all the comfort, space and power you need for everyone to enjoy the journey.
Our Perrys Recommendations or view our range of used cars::