Saltburn-by-the-Sea, often simply known as Saltburn, where Victorian elegance meets the wild North Yorkshire coast, offers a perfect mix of leisurely beach vibes and rich historical intrigue, appealing to all types of travellers.

Saltburn in a Nutshell

A charming coastal gem in North Yorkshire, Saltburn stands out for its breathtaking scenery, well-preserved Victorian buildings, and the friendly spirit of its locals. Whether it’s a peaceful retreat by the sea, an outdoor adventure, or a journey through the town’s past you’re after, Saltburn has something special for everyone.

History of Saltburn

Saltburn-by-the-Sea’s story, though more contemporary than some Yorkshire locales, is uniquely compelling, tracing a journey from a modest fishing hamlet to a flourishing Victorian holiday spot. Before the Victorians, Saltburn was simply a smattering of fishermen’s dwellings beside the waves. Its transformation kicked off in the 19th century, spurred by industrial advances and railway developments.

In the 1860s, inspired by a visionary cliff-top walk, Henry Pease of the notable Pease dynasty laid out plans for a new seaside town. This vision birthed Saltburn, a town with a design from the drawing board, unlike the spontaneous evolution of many English towns. Central to this design was the Zetland Hotel, a pioneering establishment intended to welcome rail travellers.

1867 saw the inception of Saltburn Pier, an early example of Britain’s iron piers, emblematic of its resort status. This pier drew visitors keen on the era’s burgeoning seaside culture and the health benefits of maritime air.

The 1884 debut of the Saltburn Cliff Lift, a water-powered funicular, ingeniously bridged the town to its beach, becoming a beloved local landmark. Despite a mid-20th-century dip in tourism, late-century and new-millennium rejuvenation rekindled interest in Saltburn’s Victorian charm and its coastal and countryside beauty.

Today, Saltburn marries its Victorian legacy with modern vibrancy, from arts and surfing scenes to gastronomy, alongside the careful preservation of its pier and cliff lift. This fusion of past and present ensures Saltburn-by-the-Sea remains a dynamic, enchanting part of Yorkshire’s coastal tapestry, celebrating its heritage while evolving with contemporary life.

Unusual Facts and Trivia about Saltburn

  • Saltburn is home to the oldest remaining water-balanced cliff lift in the UK, a testament to Victorian engineering.
  • The town has one of the longest remaining pleasure piers in the North of England, offering stunning views and a nostalgic seaside experience.
  • Saltburn’s Smugglers Past With its rugged cliffs and hidden coves, Saltburn was once a hotspot for smugglers. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, its secluded beaches provided the perfect backdrop for illicit activities, far from the prying eyes of customs officials. Smugglers cleverly utilized the area’s natural landscape to transport contraband goods, especially tea, spirits, and tobacco, which were highly taxed at the time. Local lore is rife with tales of secret passages and hidden caves where these goods were stashed away from the coast up to the moors.

Attractions in Saltburn

  • Saltburn Pier: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this historic pier, which offers panoramic views of the sea and coastline.
  • Saltburn Cliff Lift: Experience this unique Victorian funicular that connects the town to the beach, providing easy access and a touch of history. The lift is the oldest water-balanced funicular in the UK and the second oldest in the world. Sadly in January 2024, a fire caused extensive damage to the building and it is too early to say if the lift’s planned reopening at Easter 2024 would go ahead.
  • Saltburn Valley Gardens: These beautiful gardens offer a tranquil escape with woodland walks, a miniature railway (see below), and a tea room.
  • Saltburn Miniature Railway: a 15 in (381 mm) gauge historic miniature railway at the start of the Valley Woods. The line only runs in the peak times of the year from March to September and the train journey lasts for approximately 15 minutes (website).

Activities in Saltburn

  • Relax or engage in watersports on Saltburn Beach, renowned for its surfing conditions.
  • Explore the Cleveland Way National Trail, which passes through Saltburn, offering stunning coastal walks and hiking opportunities.
  • Delve into local history and culture with visits to art galleries, the Saltburn School of Art, and local craft shops.

Shopping, Food, Drink, and Refreshments

  • Saltburn’s town centre features a variety of shops, including independent boutiques, a village store, a post office, and gift shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
  • The town boasts a range of dining options, from traditional pubs and cozy cafes to restaurants serving delicious local and international cuisine.
  • Enjoy the local catch at seafood eateries or sample traditional English fare at one of the many welcoming establishments.

Getting to Saltburn & Accessibility

  • Saltburn is well-connected by road and rail, with Saltburn Railway Station offering direct links to major cities and towns.
  • The town is accessible by bus, with services connecting to nearby areas, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.
  • For those driving, there is ample parking available, both in the town centre and near the beach.

Nearby Towns and/or Attractions

Guisborough – 5 miles (Click for our Guisborough visitors guide)
A market town with a stunning backdrop of the North York Moors, Guisborough offers the historic Gisborough Priory, charming streets, and access to beautiful woodland walks, appealing to those who enjoy exploring historical sites and natural beauty.

Staithes – 10 miles (Click for our Staithes visitors guide)
A quaint fishing village with narrow winding streets and a rich artistic heritage, Staithes provides a peaceful retreat into a picturesque and historically rich coastal setting, perfect for those looking to explore Yorkshire’s maritime history and stunning landscapes.

Middlesbrough 12 miles (Click for our Middlesbrough visitors guide)
A town with a strong industrial heritage, Middlesbrough offers modern attractions like the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA) and historical sites such as the Tees Transporter Bridge, appealing to those interested in industrial history and contemporary culture.

Whitby – 19 miles (Click for our Whitby visitors guide)
Renowned for its picturesque harbour, the atmospheric Whitby Abbey, and its connection to the Dracula legend, Whitby offers a rich blend of maritime history, gothic charm, and coastal beauty, perfect for those seeking a unique and scenic seaside experience.

Goathland 24 miles (Click for our Goathland visitors guide)
Known for its role as Aidensfield in the TV series Heartbeat and as Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films, Goathland offers a charming insight into a traditional North York Moors village, surrounded by stunning moorland scenery, ideal for fans of film and television and lovers of natural beauty.

North York Moors (Click for our North York Moors visitors guide)
With its vast heather-clad landscapes, ancient woodlands, and historic sites, The North York Moors National Park provides a diverse range of outdoor activities and breathtaking views, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers looking to explore one of the UK’s most stunning natural areas.

Yorkshire Coast (Click for our Yorkshire Coast visitors guide)
Spanning from dramatic cliffs to charming seaside towns like Filey and Bridlington, the Yorkshire Coast offers a varied coastal experience with opportunities for fossil hunting, bird watching, and enjoying traditional seaside amusements, ideal for those wanting to explore Yorkshire’s scenic shoreline.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea is a town that effortlessly combines natural beauty, historical depth, and a lively community spirit, offering a rich and varied experience for visitors. Whether you’re there to soak up the seaside ambiance, explore the scenic trails, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Saltburn is a destination that promises both relaxation and adventure.