The charming North Yorkshire village was previously named one of the UK’s prettiest places – and it’s not hard to see why with the incredible views and interesting past on offer
The picturesque Yorkshire village of Robin Hood’s Bay always seems to be recognised as one of the UK’s prettiest towns and villages. The charming fishing village, nestled in the North Yorkshire Moors, secured fourth place in a previous survey of 160 locations across the country by FBM Holidays.
Not only did Robin Hood’s Bay rank fourth in the Top 10 prettiest UK villages in 2021, but it also claimed the same spot in the overall category for the UK’s most beautiful towns and villages. But its beauty isn’t its only draw – the village is steeped in history, and is particularly known for its smuggling past.
However, to fully appreciate all that this seaside gem has to offer, you’ll need more than a day. An overnight stay will allow you to explore everything from its award-winning beach to its fossil-rich rock pools.
When the tide is low, you can even take a trip to Boggle Hole, renowned for its excellent fossil hunting opportunities. And if you’d rather keep your feet dry, Robin Hood’s Bay sits along the Dinosaur Coast, making it an ideal starting point for a journey into the Moors or a walk along the clifftop Cleveland Way coastal path, which stretches north to Whitby and south to Scarborough.
You can take a stroll or bike ride along the ‘Cinder Track’, a disused railway line from Scarborough to Whitby, which winds through the upper part of Robin Hood’s Bay. If you’re keen on staying closer to the village, delve into its vibrant history of smuggling, reports MyLondon.
Back in the late 18th century, the Yorkshire coast was notorious for smuggling activities. Items like tea, gin, rum, brandy, and tobacco were illicitly brought into the country from places like the Netherlands and France to dodge taxes.
For a touch of spookiness, join the Robin Hood’s Bay Ghost Walk and uncover stories of shipwrecks, local legends, and the infamous smugglers.
Learn about the village’s ties to England’s legendary outlaw at the local museum, or explore the Old Coastguard Station. When hunger strikes after your adventures, head to the Wayfarer Bistro.
On Sundays, they offer a Steak and Bake for £45 per couple, featuring locally sourced meat and seafood. A satisfied diner commented: “Lovely meal in this fabulous restaurant at the weekend.”
“After visiting Robin Hoods Bay for many years we decided to finally book Wayfarer and will definitely book again! Food and service were great.” Another added: “Faultless from start to finish.”
The survey of the most beautiful places took into account Instagram hashtags, mentions in ‘UK’s prettiest places’ articles, and local National Trust sites. Although it’s a bit of a trek, visiting one of the UK’s most picturesque villages is the ideal escape – but be warned, you won’t be able to do it in a day, so consider taking a spontaneous week-long trip to this haven of smugglers and fossils.
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