Colin Green Photography: Captain Cook

Friday, 9 January 2026

Staithes: A Timeless Journey into North Yorkshire’s Most Picturesque Fishing Village

Nestled within a steep-sided ravine where the Staithes Beck meets the fierce North Sea, the village of Staithes in North Yorkshire is more than just a destination; it is a living gallery. Once one of the busiest fishing ports in the Northeast, it now serves as a quiet sanctuary for artists, hikers, and those looking to lose themselves in a labyrinth of cobbled "ginnels" and salt-kissed history.

Whether you are arriving with a camera to capture its famous "Northern Impressionist" light or with hiking boots to conquer the Cleveland Way, Staithes offers a coastal escape that feels delightfully detached from the modern world. The pictures below were taken with a Canon r100 on the 7th September 2025.

A wide-angle view from the top of a steep, winding road leading down into the coastal village of Staithes. A bright yellow cottage stands prominently on the right, while other white and stone houses nestle into the hillside. A stone-paved pedestrian path with a wooden handrail runs alongside the asphalt road.

A grand stone building with arched windows and a classical pediment, functioning as the Staithes Museum. Several international flags, including the Union Jack, Canada, and Scotland, fly from the front. Colorful bunting is strung across the narrow, descending street in front of the building.

A monochromatic photo looking down a narrow street lined with traditional terraced houses. Several cars are parked on the left side of the road. Strings of triangular bunting crisscross the air between the buildings, leading the eye toward the distant hillside.

A view of a narrow, cobbled street lined with colorful buildings in shades of blue, cream, and brick. On the right, a white building features a sign for "Blue Jacket House" next to a dark blue door. Blue and white bunting hangs overhead, and a "The Old Butcher's" shopfront is visible further down the road.

A black and white photograph of a narrow, paved village street. The architecture features traditional stone and rendered houses with small door-hoods and benches outside. Bunting hangs from the upper stories, and a few distant figures can be seen walking toward the centre of the village.

A wide-angle view of the historic fishing village of Staithes. The image shows a sandy beach at low tide leading into a calm harbor with several small blue and red boats. In the background, traditional white and stone cottages with red-tiled roofs are nestled against steep, grassy hills and a towering, layered shale cliff known as Cowbar Nab under an overcast sky.

A sepia-toned landscape of Staithes beach and harbor, giving the scene an antique, timeless feel. The Cod and Lobster pub is visible on the left, overlooking the beach where children are playing. The large cliff of Cowbar Nab dominates the right side of the frame against a soft, hazy sky.

A black and white photograph of Staithes harbor. The monochrome palette emphasizes the textures of the rippling water in the foreground, the rocky face of the surrounding cliffs, and the uniform rows of coastal cottages along the sea wall. People are seen as small figures walking along the sandy shoreline.

A wide shot of the harbor at Staithes, North Yorkshire. Numerous colorful small fishing boats and pleasure crafts are moored in the calm, gray-blue water. In the background, a long stone breakwater separates the harbor from the open sea. In the foreground, a sandy beach with dark seaweed transitions into a concrete pier where a single person sits looking out at the water.

A view looking down a narrow, winding cobbled street lined with traditional coastal buildings. On the right, a light blue textured building houses "The Old Butcher's," which features a prominent red storefront and a sign for "Reyt Good Fudge." Bunting hangs across the street between buildings, and a few people are seen walking in the distance.

A high-angle shot of several small, traditional rowing boats—one bright blue and white, another red and white—moored together in the center of the beck. The steep, grassy, and rocky banks of the inlet rise on either side, with historic stone buildings overlooking the water. The tide appears to be low, revealing the muddy banks on the left.

A scenic view of Staithes Beck flowing toward the sea. On the left bank, a row of traditional stone and brightly painted cottages (including one in vibrant orange) sits at the base of a massive, layered brown cliff. On the right, more stone houses are built into the hillside. The water is calm, reflecting the cloudy sky above.

A Step Back in Time: The Heritage of Staithes

The name Staithes derives from Old English, meaning 'landing place,' and the village has certainly lived up to its name for centuries. Walking down the steep bank from the car park into the old village, you are immediately transported to the 18th century.

It was here, in 1745, that a young James Cook—before he became the legendary Captain Cook—first felt the pull of the ocean while working as a grocer’s apprentice. Although the original shop where he worked was eventually claimed by the sea, his legacy remains central to the village's identity. You can still visit the Staithes Heritage Centre, which houses a recreation of that very shop alongside a treasure trove of maritime artifacts.

The Artist’s Muse

There is a reason why Staithes is often referred to as an "artist’s pilgrimage." In the late 19th century, a colony of nearly 30 painters, known as the Staithes Group, settled here. Inspired by French Impressionism, they sought to capture the rugged cliffs and the daily toil of the fishing community.

Today, that creative spirit is still very much alive. The village is dotted with independent galleries, and if you visit in September, you’ll witness the Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage, where local cottages are transformed into pop-up galleries, showcasing everything from traditional oil paintings to contemporary digital art.

Top Things to Do in Staithes

1. Explore the "Ginnels" and Dog Loup Alley

The best way to see Staithes is to get lost in its narrow alleyways. Keep an eye out for Dog Loup Alley, which is claimed to be the narrowest street in the world at just 18 inches wide. These winding paths are lined with traditional stone cottages, many of which bear names tied to the village’s seafaring past.

2. Fossil Hunting on the "Dinosaur Coast"

At low tide, the beach at Staithes reveals its prehistoric secrets. Part of the renowned Dinosaur Coast, the foreshore is a haven for fossil hunters. You can often find ammonites and belemnites embedded in the shale or tucked among the rock pools. It’s a perfect activity for families—just be sure to check the tide times, as the North Sea can return with surprising speed.

3. Hike the Cleveland Way to Runswick Bay

For those who crave adventure, the section of the Cleveland Way National Trail that passes through Staithes is arguably its most spectacular. Heading south toward Runswick Bay, the path climbs high onto the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the "two protective arms" of Cowbar Nab and Penny Nab.

4. Catch the View from Cowbar Bank

For the ultimate "postcard" shot of Staithes, cross the small footbridge over the beck and head up Cowbar Lane. This vantage point provides a stunning view over the red-tiled roofs and the bobbing "coble" boats in the harbour.

Where to Eat and Drink: A Taste of the Coast

After a day of exploring, the village’s pubs and tea rooms offer the perfect coastal comfort.

The Cod & Lobster: Perched right on the harbour edge, this iconic pub has faced the brunt of many North Sea storms. It’s the go-to spot for fresh seafood, particularly their famous crab sandwiches and fish chowder.
Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom: For a more refined afternoon, head to Dotty’s on the High Street. Their homemade scones are legendary, served on vintage china in a setting that feels like a cozy Victorian parlour.
The Captain Cook Inn: Located at the top of the village, this is a favourite for hikers. It offers a great selection of real ales and a hearty Sunday roast that will fuel you for the walk back down the bank.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

Parking: Access to the old village is restricted to residents and deliveries. You must park at the Bank Top car park (TS13 5AD). It is a steep walk down, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Tide Awareness: If you are planning to walk along the beach toward Port Mulgrave or Penny Nab, always consult a tide table. The cliffs are steep and the tide comes right to the base.
Connectivity: Be prepared for a digital detox—the deep ravine means mobile signal can be patchy, which only adds to the village's "time-forgotten" charm.

Staithes is a place where time slows down to the rhythm of the tides. Whether you're here for the history, the art, or simply a breath of salty North Yorkshire air, it is a village that stays with you long after you’ve climbed back up the hill.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Wednesday, 8 October 2025

A Journey into the Heart of Whitby: Where the Harbour Meets History

There are some places that feel like a story waiting to be told, and Whitby is one of them. Nestled on the rugged North Yorkshire coast, this ancient fishing port is a captivating mix of salty sea air, winding cobbled streets, and a history as rich and deep as the North Sea itself. While many are drawn to its Gothic clifftops, a true understanding of Whitby begins at the water's edge, in the bustling town and the timeless harbour that defines it.

The Pulse of the Port: A Living History

Whitby’s lifeblood has always been its harbour. Divided by the iconic swing bridge, which gracefully pivots to let vessels pass, the harbour is a constant hub of activity. Here, the everyday rhythm of a working port is on full display. Fishing trawlers chug in and out, their holds filled with the day's catch, while pleasure boats like the replica of Captain Cook's Endeavour offer a glimpse of the town from the water.

The harbour is also a place of simple, timeless pleasures. You’ll find families huddled on the quayside, lines in hand, engrossed in the great British seaside tradition of crabbing. It’s here that the seagulls, ever-present and vocal, create the classic soundtrack to a day out. As the tide goes out, the mud and sand of the River Esk are exposed, a reminder that this is a place shaped by the very forces of nature.

Whitby's maritime heritage is monumental. It was once a powerhouse of shipbuilding, where legendary vessels—including those for Captain James Cook's epic voyages—were constructed. The town also had a significant role in the whaling industry, a past remembered today by the striking Whalebone Arch on the West Cliff, a powerful tribute to this bygone era.

Wandering the Labyrinth: East and West

From the harbour, the town rises on both sides of the River Esk, each with its own distinct character. On the east, a warren of narrow, cobbled alleys and hidden courtyards invites you to get lost. It's a place where history is etched into every stone, with ancient streets and a market place dating back to the 17th century. Here, independent shops overflow with treasures, including the famous Whitby Jet, a black gemstone polished to a deep shine. Its history, from its formation millions of years ago to its rise to popularity in Victorian England, is as fascinating as the town itself.

Crossing the swing bridge to the west side, the streets open up into a more modern but equally charming area. This is the place for a classic British seaside experience. The air is thick with the irresistible aroma of freshly cooked fish and chips, a local delicacy for which Whitby is renowned. A visit isn't complete without a trip to one of the famous chippies, where you can enjoy your meal straight from the paper while watching the boats bob in the harbour.

Whether you're exploring the historic landmarks, browsing the shops for a unique souvenir, or simply soaking in the atmosphere with a delicious portion of food, Whitby’s town and harbour offer an experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. It's a place that tells a story of discovery, industry, and enduring coastal charm, a perfect starting point for any North Yorkshire adventure.

The pictures below were taken in August 2018 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!