'Enchanting' Yorkshire village that tourists miss because of famous neighbour - Yorkshire Live

Despite its often overlooked status, this picturesque Yorkshire fishing village, nestled along the coast, has one of the most beautiful, unspoilt golden sand beaches

The Yorkshire coastline is home to some dramatic landscapes, featuring rugged cliffs, lapping waves, and vast sand beaches. Among these scenes is a charming fishing village, boasting one of the country's most peaceful beaches, despite being overshadowed by its neighbour.

Sandsend is a picturesque Yorkshire fishing village with a sprawling golden sand beach set against the backdrop of striking cliffs and charming traditional cottages. It offers a calmer alternative to a traditional British seaside escape without the chaos, compared to busier coastal resorts. Its neighbour Whitby is a particularly popular spot - which means that tourists can inadvertently overlook Sandsend.

The beach has become a favourite among families, thanks to its shallow waters, where young children can paddle, and its array of rock pools during low tide. It's also a popular spot among walkers, who can easily wander along the trails or flat sandbanks, as well as fossil enthusiasts hoping to uncover the coast's past.

It's an idyllic spot for everyone to enjoy, whether that's basking in the British sunshine during the summer or taking a wintery stroll before a warming cup of tea from a charming café nearby. One visitor shared on TripAdvisor: "A beautiful coast, would highly recommend. Lovely atmosphere and views. My children loved it here, it's very peaceful and if you love a quiet coastal trip, then I would advise visiting here. There are a few pubs, cafes and restaurants too."

Another shared: "We arrived when the tide was just turning, so we parked in the large car park at the end of the beach by the rockpools, then walked back to the pub (dog friendly) until the sandy beach was walkable. Lovely and clean sand, found a couple of hag stones and stones with fossils in and a piece of jet. Had a nice walk back along the sand to the car park."

Nestled along the scenic coast are a range of eateries, including The Hart Inn pub and Mary's Sandwich Shop, as well as cafés Tides and Wits End. One particular highlight is The Fish Cottage, a delightful, whitewashed venue that serves as a seafood restaurant and a fish and chip takeaway.

Located just 20 yards from the beach, some customers have hailed it "the best seafood restaurant by far" that provides "elegant and tasty fish dishes". One happy customer shared: "Delicious fish and crab fries, fish tacos. Very fresh and super tasty. Wine is good too. Friendly service and very dog friendly, we loved our dinner here!"

The business also runs a second establishment in Robin Hood's Bay, another charming village on the far side of Whitby. After an impromptu visit, one customer wrote on TripAdvisor: "Whenever I'm in the area, I cannot help myself; be it lunch or dinner time, I have to call in, and I am never disappointed. Staff are so so nice and very accommodating. The restaurant, although small, is lovely. If you're ever in the area, honestly, this fish restaurant is the best."

For those looking to extend their stay and wake up to the charming views of Sandsend, several hotels and B&Bs are available along the coast. Additionally, the village, which was once two distinct communities, Sandsend and East Row, has a fascinating maritime history as a fishing port, with fishing still thriving to this day.

Away from the coast and a stroll through enchanting forestry is Mulgrave Castle, which sits just outside the village and is well worth a visit, with its ancient ruins and fascinating history. Legend has it that the site was founded by a 6th-century king of Hälsingland, with its crumbling remains now standing as a testament to the area's rich history.

One visitor shared: "Superb forest walk with a castle in the centre, lovely cafe at the beginning of the walk. very easy to get lost, so stick to the main path."

A second added: "It's a bit of a slog getting there through the beautiful woods, but it's well worth the effort. There was only one other person up at the castle, so it felt like the place was all mine. The views are breathtaking and the ruin itself very romantic."

Want to check it out for yourself? You can find some beautiful cottages in the town and surrounding area with the likes of sykescottages.co.uk and holidaycottages.co.uk.

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