Saltwick Bay, a hidden gem on the North Yorkshire coast, is just a stone’s throw away from the bustling town of Whitby – but it feels like a world away from the crowds
Whitby is renowned as one of the UK’s most picturesque coastal towns. It’s a magnet for tourists all year round, making it an ideal spot for a staycation, but not so much if you’re after a more secluded and less bustling experience.
Enter Saltwick Bay. If you’re seeking a unique seaside holiday this summer, this underrated beach is definitely worth considering. Located just 1.8 miles (roughly a 10-minute drive) from Whitby, Saltwick Bay attracts significantly fewer visitors throughout the year.
If you get there early enough, you might even have the entire bay to yourself. This hidden gem of a beach offers the perfect coastal escape for those in search of something a bit different.
The Yorkshire beach is truly a marvel, with its golden sands, clear blue waters, and a treasure trove of fossils waiting to be unearthed. At low tide, you can even spot the shipwrecks of the Admiral Von Tromp and the SS Rohilla hospital ship, as well as the submerged remains of the SS Brentwood, reports the Express.
It’s an ideal location for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. You can anticipate finding ammonites, belemnites, and Whitby Jet – a gemstone created from fossilised Araucaria trees – on this beach. And if that wasn’t thrilling enough, you might even come across genuine dinosaur footprints etched into the rocks.
Saltwick Bay, with its distinctive charm, lack of crowds and truly breathtaking views, is bound to captivate visitors of all ages. The bay is famed for its reptile fossils, which can be seen in the cliff face about one metre above the beach.
A wander along the beach might also treat you to a glimpse of ammonites – fascinating coiled-shelled cephalopods. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that Saltwick Bay is a site of special scientific interest, so hammering the bedrock is strictly off-limits.
The remains of the Admiral Von Tromp rest on the shore, cloaked in mystery. It’s thought to have departed from Scarborough Harbour in 1976, heading for Barnacle Bay, but it never reached its planned destination.
Instead, it foundered on the rocks at Saltwick Bay. This intriguing sight can be observed at low tide, so time your visit accordingly if you’re keen to see this nautical oddity.
Access to Saltwick Bay Beach is via a steep, erosion-prone path featuring 199 steps that can become slippery when wet, and is situated just beyond Whitby Abbey. For those after a shorter walk, parking near the abbey for a small charge is an option.
From there, carry on along the Cleveland Way behind Whitby Brewery across the headland. At low tide, the MV Creteblock wreck comes into view.
Another way to reach Saltwick Bay is via Tate Hill Sands beach, located just off the harbour – but this should only be attempted at low tide. If you decide on this route, make sure you’re wearing suitable footwear as it can get quite slippery.
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Despite the care needed to access this hidden gem of a beach, the breathtaking views make the journey worthwhile. The distinctive landscape and dramatic coastline make Saltwick Bay a haven for photographers.
While finding accommodation directly in Saltwick Bay might be challenging, nearby Whitby offers an array of hotels, cottages, and B&Bs to suit different budgets – though keep in mind that prices may rise during peak seasons.
Whitby itself is a perfect base for exploring the bay, with its range of independent shops, quaint pubs and charming cafes. The town also boasts its own impressive cliffs and is surrounded by the stunning North York Moors National Park countryside.