The small harbour of Staithes lies between the protective headlands of Cowbar Nab and Penny Nab. In a storm, the two headlands shield it from the sea’s fiercest fury. This coastal relationship provides a recurring theme for the village: fishing is part of both its 19th-century history and its present, while art and paths offer other perspectives on Staithes. For travel planning, it helps to distinguish these themes: the fishing figures refer to different periods, and the paths offer a choice between a route to a hamlet and a circular walk.

Fishing Then and Now

In the 19th century, Staithes was one of the largest fishing ports in the north-east. More than 300 men brought in the catch in wooden boats known as cobles. Today, a small number of fishing boats still set out to sea from Staithes, mainly to catch mackerel, lobsters and crabs. The historical comparison matters more than a broad-brush picture of the harbour: the former scale is reflected in the more than 300 men and the wooden cobles; today, a small number of fishing boats and specific types of catch define the fishery. Staithes thus brings together a significant chapter in the region’s fishing history and a smaller-scale fishery today.

Artistic Connections and Historic Architecture

Staithes has attracted artists for centuries, inspired by the quality of its light and landscape. This longstanding connection with art adds another perspective to the village’s maritime history. Staithes Museum is housed in a restored, Grade II listed Methodist chapel on High Street. The museum building’s architecture is therefore a tangible part of its cultural character.

Staithes Gallery displays works by contemporary artists inspired by the wild North Sea and the surrounding North York Moors National Park. The artists and works on display may change. The museum and gallery have different emphases: the museum is distinguished by its historic chapel building, while the gallery focuses on contemporary works and their inspiration.

Two Types of Walk from Staithes

There are different types of walk to choose from for time outdoors. From Staithes, you can follow the Cleveland Way National Trail for a mile to the hamlet of Port Mulgrave. The Staithes and Port Mulgrave Walk, by contrast, is a four-mile circular route that starts in Staithes. The routes differ not only in length: the Cleveland Way leads to the hamlet of Port Mulgrave, while the other route is a circular walk starting in Staithes.

The circular route follows quiet lanes and paths through fields and woodland, as well as along the cliffs. When choosing between the options, you can factor the destination, whether the route is circular and the types of paths into your plans. Check conditions and access before setting out.

For the broader travel overview: North Yorkshire.