By Katie Foster
Although we have a large, stunning beach a mere 10-minute walk from some of our properties, if you feel like exploring further afield or want to find a better spot for surfing or fossil-hunting, we’ve got you covered!
1 – The Bay / Hunmanby Gap
Best for: Traditional beach activities a short distance away
If you’re looking for a large stretch of sandy beach for a day filled with building sandcastles, playing games, swimming in the sea, and of course relaxing in the sun, look no further than our local beach. Keep walking east for about 20 minutes to reach Hunmanby Gap, a beautiful stretch of sand which one would expect to be crawling with tourists, but fortunately it remains a hidden gem. Open seasonally is the Beach Café, serving hot and cold drinks, breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and there are nearby toilet facilities as well.
2 – Filey
Best for: Having everything you need nearby
A short drive from The Bay (or around an hour’s walk on the beach if you’re up for it) is Filey Beach. Just as sandy and beautiful as Hunmanby, but much busier and not dog friendly during the summer, this is great for those who want a wide selection of food and entertainment options nearby. Grab an ice cream or a fresh donut for a snack or sit down on the balcony at Cobbles’ Bar and Bistro for a full meal. Once you’ve had enough of the beach, head into the nearby Holdsworth Amusements for traditional arcade games.
3 – Reighton
Best for: Rock pools and fossil hunting
Also in walking distance from The Bay is Reighton Beach, a quiet, sandy stretch of coastline framed by steep, fossil-rich cliffs. Ideal for those who prefer an untouched environment featuring plenty of rock pools and other natural features to explore; the area is also very popular for swimming.
4 – Flamborough
Best for: Caves and other interesting natural features
The start point of the Holderness Coast, Flamborough is known for its rugged white cliffs marked with a number of caves safe to explore. The bay is sandy and protected though much smaller than other beaches on this list but is a great spot for those interested (and experienced) in sea canoeing. You can also visit the famous Flamborough Head Lighthouse while you’re there and stop into the Headlands Family Restaurant for a bite to eat.
5 – Fraisthorpe
Best for: History
Located an hour’s walk on the beach from Bridlington, Fraisthorpe is a vast, sandy beach ideal for scenic walks and kite-flying; the area is also popular for wind-surfing. Large, surviving pillboxes (guard posts) from both world wars remain on the beach, perfect for those who want some hands-on exploring. The perfect way to end your trip is at the Cow Shed Café which is dog friendly and serves a variety of hot and cold handmade food.
6 – Cayton Bay
Best for: Surfing and water sports
Cayton Bay is a wide-sweeping, unspoilt bay with light blue waters perfect for those who want to get out into the sea, especially as there’s a coast guard on watch. It is also particularly good for surfing, as it can be surfed through all stages of the tide, and if you’re a beginner, Scarborough Surf School is open and ready to help you improve; they also offer activities such as coasteering and paddleboarding.
7 – Scarborough
Best for: A busy and exciting atmosphere
Although Scarborough is often full of tourists, it can still be a worthwhile trip for those looking for excitement and a wide range of activities. Aside from the gorgeous sand common to this area, Scarborough Beach also features rock pools, and donkey rides are often available, though dogs unfortunately are not allowed. Like Filey, there are a variety of other things to check out while you’re in town, including museums, the old town, and Peasholm Park.