Discover Staithes

Nestled on the rugged North Yorkshire coast, Staithes is a village of striking natural beauty, steeped in history and artistic heritage. Its dramatic cliffs, winding streets, and harbour have long inspired creativity, drawing artists and writers alike to capture its unique character.

In the early 20th century, Staithes became the home of the Staithes Group of Artists, a collective of painters influenced by Impressionism who were captivated by the village’s fishing community, changing light, and coastal scenery. Their work helped to establish Staithes as an artistic hub, celebrating the everyday life of local fishermen and the rugged charm of the North Sea coastline.

Later generations of artists continued this tradition, including Lilian Colbourn, whose evocative paintings and sketches explored Staithes’ landscape and people with warmth and insight. Lilian’s daughter, Gloria Wilson, extended the family’s creative legacy through her writing, notably in her book Staithes: A Place Apart, which chronicles the enduring spirit of its community.

Fishing, though once the lifeblood of the village, is now much reduced, yet the harbour still retains a connection to the sea and its maritime traditions. Historically, mining also shaped Staithes, with ironstone extraction providing employment and shaping the local economy in the 19th century.

Staithes continues to be a source of inspiration and pride, blending its rich cultural past with the vibrant life of a working coastal village. Visitors can explore the harbour, enjoy the local art, and experience the history and beauty that have made Staithes a unique gem on the Yorkshire coast.