This historic fishing village on North Yorkshire's coast has narrow cobbled streets, red-roofed cottages from the 1600s, and a beach rich with Jurassic fossils. Former smugglers' paths now lead to shops and pubs.
Robin Hood's Bay sits within the cliffs of North Yorkshire's coast. Walk its narrow cobbled streets past red-roofed cottages from the 1600s, spot ammonite fossils in the beach's rock pools, or step inside the Old Coastguard Station to identify local seashells and crabs. The village's winding alleyways - once used by smugglers in the 18th century - now connect small art galleries, traditional pubs, and viewpoints where you can watch fishing boats return to harbor.
Getting to Robin Hood's Bay
The village sits 5 miles south of Whitby on Yorkshire's east coast. You'll need to park in one of two lots at the top of the hill, as cars aren't allowed in the lower village. The X93 bus connects Robin Hood's Bay to both Whitby and Scarborough throughout the day. From Whitby train station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the village.
Exploring the Village Streets
The main street descends steeply from the upper village to the dock, with smaller alleyways branching off in all directions. These narrow paths, known locally as ginnels, weave between old fishermen's cottages and lead to hidden courtyards. The buildings closest to the sea date from the 1700s, while newer structures line the upper slopes. The street layout remains unchanged since the 1800s.
Beach Activities and Fossil Hunting
When the tide retreats, you can walk along the wide sandy beach to search for fossils and explore rock pools. The Jurassic cliffs contain ammonites and belemnites embedded in their layers. Check tide times before visiting - the water reaches the sea wall during high tide. You can buy fossil hunting guides and tools from shops near the dock.
Walking Routes Around the Bay
Take the Cleveland Way National Trail north for a 6-mile coastal walk to Whitby, or south for 3 miles to Ravenscar. The Cinder Track, following an old railway line, runs inland with gentler slopes. Both paths give you clear views of the North York Moors and the coastline.
Museums and Local History
Inside the Old Coastguard Station, run by the National Trust, you can examine local marine specimens and learn about coastal geology. The Robin Hood's Bay Museum, in the former Coroner's Room and Mortuary, displays fishing equipment and tells stories of local smugglers from the 1780s.
Food and Drink
The pubs in the lower village serve Yorkshire ales and hot meals. The Bay Hotel, at the bottom of the hill, marks where Coast to Coast walkers traditionally end their journey. Cafes throughout the village serve breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. In summer, you'll find ice cream vans parked near the beach.
Practical Information
Check tide times before walking on the beach - add 10 minutes to Whitby times for Robin Hood's Bay. The village's steep hills make comfortable walking shoes essential. Most shops and cafes accept cards, but it's worth carrying cash for smaller purchases. Public toilets are located at the top and bottom of the village.
