We love a staycation here at The Yorkshireman. When the weather plays ball, it’s hard to believe there’s anywhere better than Yorkshire. From its stunning coastline and two beautiful national parks to its charming villages and historic market towns, the county is packed with fantastic destinations for a weekend break.
According to Time Out, And it seems we’re not the only ones who think so. According to the Sykes Holiday Cottages Staycation Index, more than a quarter of Britons say they are more likely to holiday in the UK than they were a year ago, while 38% plan to make a staycation their main holiday of 2026. The trend is particularly popular among Gen Z, with 53% of 18 to 28-year-olds planning a UK-based getaway.
This year’s most popular staycation destination was St Ives in Cornwall, but flying the flag for Yorkshire in fifth place was Robin Hood’s Bay.
Located just south of Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay is one of our favourite places anywhere in the world. This historic fishing village is bursting with character, from its red-roofed cottages and winding cobbled streets to its maze of narrow alleyways waiting to be explored. The views are simply spectacular, whether you’re gazing out across the North Sea or setting off on a walk along the King Charles III England Coast Path, which passes through the village.
And then there are the pubs.
Our favourite is The Laurel Inn, tucked halfway down the steep hill that leads into the village. For us, it’s everything a proper pub should be. Think wooden beams, cask ales, a roaring fire in winter, and cosy rooms where it’s easy to settle in for a few drinks and strike up a conversation with fellow visitors and locals alike.
Other highlights include the recently reopened Dolphin pub, the excellent Fish Box chippy, which boasts some of the best sea views around, and the Bay Hotel, perched right on the waterfront. If you’re planning to stay a little longer, there are plenty of beautiful cottages available to rent, as well as rooms at the Bay Hotel, making it easy to turn a day trip into a memorable coastal escape.
It’s not hard to see why Robin Hood’s Bay remains one of Yorkshire’s most beloved destinations – and now one of the UK’s most sought-after staycation spots too.
Read More: 8 Charming Villages And Vibrant Towns To Visit On The Picturesque Yorkshire Coast
