Eight miles of uninterrupted sand stretch along the coast of Redcar And Cleveland from South Gare to Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Add to that impressive sea cliffs and wide bays. This means the coast is not just one long sandy beach, but also features distinctly varied landscapes.
Coast and Architectural Heritage
Marske-by-the-Sea offers a quieter stretch of coast, two miles south of Redcar and further along towards Saltburn-by-the-Sea. In Redcar, the 80-foot Beacon is a striking landmark and offers views of the seafront promenade. Saltburn Pier offers a different perspective on the coast: the Victorian iron structure extends 200 metres into the North Sea and opened in May 1869. It was the first pier built in the north-east of England.
The Saltburn Cliff Tramway is also part of the town’s architectural heritage; it opened in 1884. If you plan to include a ride in your visit, check its current operating status beforehand. This lets you distinguish the historic railway from whether it will be running on your travel dates.
Priories, Museums and Maritime History
Gisborough Priory brings together architecture and history. The site preserves the impressive east end of a 14th-century church and is considered an outstanding example of Early Gothic architecture. The Bruce family founded the priory, one of the first Augustinian priories in England. Tours led by volunteers last about an hour; tour dates and arrangements may vary.
Kirkleatham Museum is housed in a Queen Anne building dating from 1709, originally built as a free school for boys. Its exhibitions explore local industrial, maritime and social history. The museum grounds also include a short woodland path with surfaced paths suitable for visitors with access needs. The architecture, exhibitions and outdoor area therefore offer different ways to enjoy a museum visit.
Land of Iron in Skinningrove is located on the site of Loftus Mine. Its permanent exhibition uses photographs and historical objects to tell the story of the mine since 1848, as well as the lives of the miners and their families. A guided mine tour complements the exhibition with stories about working underground. Check the current tour arrangements before travelling.
In Redcar, the Zetland Lifeboat Museum commemorates the history of sea rescue. It is housed in a former lifeboat station facing the sea. The Zetland arrived in Redcar in 1802, served for 78 years and is credited with saving more than 500 people off the coast. It is considered the world’s oldest surviving lifeboat.
Woodland Trails, Wildlife and More Experiences
Guisborough Forest and Walkway offers a range of ways to enjoy activities in the forest: there are cycling, walking and horse-riding trails, a trim trail and orienteering courses. The Sculpture Trail passes chainsaw carvings as it winds into the forest. A playground, opportunities for pond dipping and picnic areas complete the facilities. For a circular walk, Bousdale Circular starts at the Visitor Centre; the estimated duration is 45 minutes. Check local conditions before your walk.
There are also coastal trails with different highlights. The coastal path from Loftus to Hummersea offers spots for watching resident and migratory birds and leads to a path towards the Cleveland Way National Trail. The Lewis Hunton Trail is a walking trail in Loftus; check trail conditions before setting out. A free borough walking and cycling map helps you explore Redcar And Cleveland. Make sure you use the current edition of the map.
For a different kind of exploration, the 15-inch Saltburn Miniature Railway runs from Cat Nab station for five-eighths of a mile through the wooded valley alongside Skelton Beck to Forest Halt station. The route passes through grassland with picnic and play areas. Operating days and times may vary seasonally; check the timetable before travelling.
In Saltburn, the Surf School offers lessons for groups and individuals. It also rents surfboards, wetsuits, bodyboards and sit-on-top paddle canoes. Contact the provider for current availability. The Kirkleatham Owl Centre adds wildlife to the range of attractions: it is the oldest established owl centre in the United Kingdom, runs a specialist rehabilitation centre for injured or vulnerable wildlife, and holds flying displays during the season’s school holidays.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: Loftus, Guisborough, Saltburn-By-The-Sea, Brotton, Skelton-In-Cleveland, Great Ayton, Moorsholm, Sunderland.
Go to the main travel overview: North East England.
