Sandsend Tourist Information

Sandsend lies on the east coast of Yorkshire, just two miles along the coast from the fishing port of Whitby. It is a delightfully picturesque village consisting of small fishermen's cottages set against the grassy cliffs and facing the long sandy beach.

The small village has a great deal of charm, nestled in its valley location. The beautiful beach offers plenty of activities and Whitby can be seen in the distance where the nearest shops, pubs, banks and amenities can be found.

Lythe is a mile inland from Sandsend and although the parish only has 465 residents, there is a Post Office, tennis courts, a pub and St Oswald's Church.

Sandsend is the ideal location for enjoying a relaxing family beach holiday, or for couples wanting to enjoy a quiet romantic break. The area is perfect for those who enjoy walking as it is right on the edge of the wild North Yorkshire Moors.

This unspoilt area offers endless simple pleasures. When the tide recedes it leaves countless rock pools at the foot of the cliffs, which are a source of discovery for children of all ages. Small fish, shrimps and crabs inhabit these small microcosms of sea life.

The area is also known for its prehistoric fossils and those with a sharp eye are likely to find many interesting finds. Boat trips and fishing charters are also fun activities around Sandsend.

Sandsend beach is a popular place for sunbathing, swimming, surfing and sea-angling, especially at high tide. This is one of the best surfing beaches along this coastline. Would-be surfers can hire a wetsuit and board and try their skills in the rolling surf.

Much of the coastline in this area is owned and managed by the National Trust. The coastal paths offer excellent walks with spectacular views and the chance to discover some charming fishing villages. Robin Hood's Bay is particularly lovely and the Old Coastguard Centre there welcomes visitors.

The North Yorkshire Moors National Park offers endless moorland terrain and can best be enjoyed from the North York Moors Steam Railway. Some of the trains conveniently run through Whitby.

Walking in this area can be a thrill in the bracing sea air. There are constantly things to be discovered along the way, such as the remains of the 12th century Mulgrave Castle at Lythe and the old alum quarries where highly prized alum shale was mined.

Alum mining was common in the Sandsend area. It was used in tanning and dying processes as a fixative. Unfortunately the extensive excavations in the past have led to the whole cliff face being changed at Sandsend Ness.

Pubs in the area are a great place to enjoy a home-cooked meal. Freshly caught fish and chips are a local favourite. Many of the pubs pride themselves on their CAMRA real ales, and genuine Yorkshire hospitality, often around a log fire.

Whitby offers a host of interesting attractions and history including the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, along with a statue of him on the West Cliff. The ruins of Whitby Abbey are one of the most famous landmarks in the area and it is fun to climb the 199 steps to the top of the cliff to see it.

Other great places to visit near Sandsend are Helmsley Castle, Nunnington Hall and the stately home of Castle Howard in North Yorkshire.