Heritage Coast
At the eastern edge of the National Park the land meets the North Sea. For thousands of years rain, ice, wind and waves have carved and shaped this coastline into the scenery we see today. Here you will find sandy beaches, rocky platforms, towering cliffs, steep wooded valleys or `wykes', sheltered bays and fascinating villages.
Did you know?
The coastline of Britain is over 5000 miles long! In England and Wales the most beautiful and unspoilt stretches of coast have been given special protection so that they remain undeveloped by industry or tourism. These protected coastlines are called Heritage Coasts and there are over 40 around the coast of England and Wales.
The North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast is 36 miles long and stretches from Saltburn , just north of the National Park, down to Scalby Mills just south of the National Park near Scarborough.
Did you know?
The highest point on the east coast of England is at Boulby, near Staithes. Here the cliffs are a towering 200 metres (656 feet) high!
There are also many seaside villages with higgledy piggledy cottages and narrow, winding streets clinging on to the cliffs. The villages developed because of the fishing industry. There are only a few fishermen left now but many local people make a living from hotels, cafés, shops and other services for the tourists who visit the coast. Robin Hoods Bay, Runswick Bay and Staithes are popular villages for visitors.
Find out more
Why is the Heritage Coast important?
How does the National Park Authority look after the coast?
How can I help look after the coast?
More detailed information about the coast and how it is managed
