When the Yorkshire Coast was created, it was as if a piece of the Mediterranean was stolen, and it was named Staithes. This highly photographed area shows how stunning the village is. Still, something even more charming and vibrant is when you actually walk past the cottages and cut through the winding streets.

It is easy to see why so many people have fallen in love with the area and feel inspired to write, create, and record in this area.

As you descend into Staithes, you will be reminded to leave your car at the top. In a fair warning for the descent and ultimate, climb back up to the top, make sure you put on your sturdy walking boots. The route down to the harbour is straightforward but take the opportunity to explore the cafes and shops before you join the harbour front where the Cod and Lobster proudly sit, ready to brace even the most brutal waves delivered by the North Sea.

The harbour is still used by local fishermen to catch cod, lobsters, and crabs and some vessels offer short pleasure cruises. There is a small beach and cluster of rock pools, and you may even find ammonite fossils on the foreshore within nodules or in ledges at the base of the cliff.

It's not hard to fall in love with the charm of Staithes; even the famous 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook lived here until 1746. However, locals can still tell exciting tales if you ask them about Staithes' smuggling past. Book a couple of nights, stay, and explore.

We know you will wish you had booked longer!