Are you looking for a charming seaside town to visit in the UK? Then you could consider visiting Saltburn-by-the-Sea, located in North Yorkshire. This picturesque town offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages, from exploring the stunning coastline to discovering the town’s rich history.
The city is located just under 2 hours from York by car and 1 hour 30 minutes by train, making it perfect for a day trip or short stay.
Exploring Saltburn Beach
If you’re looking for a fun day out at the beach, Saltburn Beach is a great option.
The beach is known for its great waves, making it a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders. You can even take surf lessons from one of the many surf schools in the area such as the Saltburn Surf School which is located near the beach. Other watersports available include kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. There’s a few stores along the beach that sell wetsuits, surfboards etc such as the Saltburn Surf Shop.
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Tip: Before visiting the beach make sure to check the tide times. Saltburn Beach is tidal, and the beach becomes inaccessible at high tide. You can check the tide times here.
If you’re visiting with kids, I recommend picking up a buckets and spade from one of the stores in the town centre and spending a few hours building sand castles on the beach.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area serving up delicious seafood and other local specialties. If you’re after ice cream, head to the Surf’s Up cafe – they even have ice cream for dogs. If you looking for somewhere to dine for dinner, I recommend the Tomahawk Steakhouse Saltburn which serves some of the best steak in the town.
Saltburn Beach is a great destination for a fun day out by the sea. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves or just relax on the beach, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful beach in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, UK.
Ride The Saltburn Lift
The Saltburn Lift takes you from the town centre to Saltburn beach. The lift which adds a bit of historical charm to this seaside town, has been running since 1884 and is one of the oldest funiculars in the UK.
While its only a short ride, you’ll get some amazing views over the beach. You’ll also be able to take some great photos for Instagram of the lift once you reach the bottom.
Walk along the Saltburn Pier
Saltburn Pier is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the town. The pier was first opened to the public in 1869 and has since undergone several renovations to maintain its charm and elegance. The pier is a Grade II listed building and stretches out into the North Sea, providing visitors with stunning views of the coastline.
Walking along the pier is a pleasant experience, whether it’s a windy day or the sun is shining. You can take a leisurely stroll to the end and back while admiring the sea views. The pier also offers visitors the opportunity to fish, and there are several benches where you can sit and enjoy the scenery.
If you enjoy photography, you might enjoy taking photos of the pier during sunset. For the best photos, head down to the beach and you’ll be able to take some stunning landscape photos of the beach, with the pier as the main feature.
Ride on the Saltburn Miniture Railway
Saltburn Miniature Railway offers the chance to take a ride through the Valley Gardens on a 15-inch gauge track. You’ll get to ride between Cat Nab by the seafront and the Forrest Halt. Cat Nab, near Saltburn beach and pier, offers picnic areas, parking, toilets, and a gift shop. Forest Halt is close to tearooms, gardens, a forest, a Woodland Centre, a playground, and ‘Fairy Glen’. It’s a short walk to the Mainline Railway Viaduct and town center.
The trip takes around 15 minutes and departs approximately every 15 minutes. One way tickets cost £1.50 for adults and 50p for children. Return tickets are £2 for adults and £1 for children. Children under 5 ride for free. The train does have carriages that have been modified to be wheelchair accessible, but it is recommended to board at Cat Nab.
Walking & Cycling Routes
If you’re looking to enjoy nature, Saltburn has several walking and cycling trails that offer breathtaking views of the coast and countryside. Our personal faveorite is The Cleveland Way which passes through Saltburn and offers spectacular views of the North Sea.
The Cleveland Way National Trail is 109 miles (175km) long, and there’s a 17.2 mile (27.7km) long section that runs between Saltburn and Sandend which makes for a really nice walk. The walk does take around 7 hours, but even just a short stroll along th first mile or so makes for a nice afternoon walk or bike ride. The best time to explore this section is in summer or late autumn, but it’s beauitful all year round.
You could also consider the Saltburn and Skinningrove Circular. This 13.7km walk gives you amazing views over the sea, and passes through some of the areas most beauitful countryside.
If you’re looking for something shorter, you could take a stroll along the beach. The beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can stop for a bite to eat.
Visit the Valley Gardens
The Valley Gardens is a 5-hectare woodland park that offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can take a leisurely walk through the gardens, explore the woodland trails, or have a picnic in one of the designated areas. The gardens also have a children’s play area, a miniature railway, and a boating lake. If you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll be pleased to know that the gardens are home to a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, woodpeckers, and nuthatches.
Cultural Experiences
Saltburn is a town that is rich in culture, offering visitors a chance to experience the local art, music, and cuisine. Here are some of the cultural experiences that you should not miss out on during your visit:
Art Galleries
Saltburn is home to a number of art galleries that showcase the work of local artists. One of the most popular galleries is the Saltburn Artist’s Project, which features a range of contemporary art from both established and emerging artists. The gallery is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible from most areas.
Another popular gallery is the Saltburn Gallery, which specializes in modern and contemporary art. The gallery features works from some of the most talented artists in the region, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the local art scene.
Local Cuisine
When it comes to cuisine, Saltburn has a lot to offer. The town is famous for its fish and chips, which can be found at many of the local restaurants and cafes. Some of the most popular places to enjoy this traditional dish include The Seaview Restaurant, The Fisherman’s Wife, and The Saltburn Fish and Chip Shop.
In addition to fish and chips, Saltburn also has a thriving cafe culture, with many independent cafes and coffee shops serving up delicious cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats. Some of the most popular cafes in the town include Rapps Cafe, The Sitting Room, and The Coffee Station.
Saltburn is a town that is steeped in culture and history, offering visitors a chance to experience the best of Yorkshire’s art, music, and cuisine. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is something for everyone in this charming and vibrant town.
Shopping in Saltburn
If you are a shopaholic or just looking for a unique shopping experience, Saltburn has something for everyone. With a variety of independent shops and a farmer’s market, you can find everything from vintage clothing to fresh produce.
Independent Shops
Saltburn is home to many independent shops that offer a unique shopping experience. ArtsBank 24 Art Galleries is a great place to browse for artwork and handmade crafts. ReeVive Online Preloved Clothing & Accessories Emporium offers quality vintage and vintage-style garments and accessories. You can also find home decorations, gifts, cards, and stationery at various shops in the town.
Farmers Market
If you are looking for fresh produce, the Saltburn Farmers Market is a great place to visit. The market is held on the second Saturday of every month and offers a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as homemade cakes, bread, and other treats. You can also find handmade crafts and gifts at the market.
Saltburn offers a unique shopping experience with its independent shops and farmers market. Whether you are looking for vintage clothing or fresh produce, you can find it in Saltburn.
Where to stay in Saltburn
If you’re planning a trip to Saltburn, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. Here are some of the best accommodation options in the area.
Hotels and B&Bs
There are several hotels and bed and breakfasts in Saltburn that offer comfortable accommodation for visitors. Some of the most popular options include:
- Brockley Hall Hotel: This 4-star hotel offers a blend of elegance and comfort. It features a garden, lounge, and terrace, along with a restaurant and bar. Brockley Hall is right by Saltburn Valley Gardens, and about half a mile from the beach.
- The Spa Hotel: This hotel is located in a beautiful Victorian building and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a spa and fitness center.
- The Victoria: Set in a Victorian building in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, offers cozy rooms. The hotel is close to the town centre and less than a mile from the beach, making it ideal for exploring the area.
Holiday Rentals
If you’re looking for a more independent option, there are also several holiday rentals available in Saltburn. Some of the best options include:
- Artsbank Apartment: This modern apartment is located in the heart of Saltburn and offers easy access to the beach and other amenities. The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and can sleep up to four people.
- Beach View Apartment: This spacious apartment is located right on the seafront and offers stunning views of the coast. The apartment has two bedrooms and can sleep up to six people.
- Driftwood Apartment: This stylish apartment is located in a historic building and offers comfortable accommodation for up to four people. The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and is just a short walk from the beach.
Whether you’re looking for a hotel room or a holiday rental, there are plenty of great accommodation options in Saltburn to choose from.
Getting Around Saltburn
When it comes to getting around Saltburn, there are a few options available to you. Here are some of the best ways to explore the town:
Public Transport
Saltburn has a few different options when it comes to public transport. There are regular bus services that run throughout the town and connect it to nearby areas. The Arriva bus service is the main provider, and you can find a timetable on their website. You can also use the Traveline website to plan your journey and find out which bus you need to catch.
If you’re planning to explore the wider area, you might want to consider taking the train. Saltburn has its own train station, which is located in the town centre. From here, you can catch trains to nearby towns and cities, including Middlesbrough and Whitby.
Events and Festivals
Saltburn is a town that is full of life and energy, and there are plenty of events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for music, art, or food, there’s something for everyone in Saltburn.
One of the most popular events in Saltburn is the Saltburn Food Festival, which takes place every summer. This festival brings together some of the best food producers and chefs from around the region, and it’s a great opportunity to sample some of the delicious local cuisine. There are also plenty of stalls selling artisanal products, so you can take home a taste of Saltburn with you.
If you’re a music lover, you won’t want to miss the Saltburn Music Festival. This annual event features a wide range of musical genres, from classical to rock, and it’s a great opportunity to discover new artists and enjoy some live music in a beautiful setting.
Other events that take place throughout the year include the Saltburn Vintage Fair, the Saltburn Ice Trail, and the Saltburn Christmas Market. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something going on in Saltburn.
Saltburn is a vibrant town that is full of life and energy. With its wide range of events and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a visit to Saltburn and discover all that this charming town has to offer?
