Hayburn Wyke is a secluded coastal gem located between Scarborough and Whitby on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. Known for its dramatic double waterfall that cascades directly onto a pebble beach, it offers a wilder, more serene experience than the nearby resort towns.
The main attraction is the rocky cove where Hayburn Beck meets the sea. The Waterfall:
A rare sight where two tiers of fresh water tumble over mossy stones directly onto the shore.
The beach is perfect for fossil hunting, rock-hopping, and exploring tidal pools. While "wild dipping" in the waterfall pool is possible, swimming in the sea is not recommended due to cold temperatures and strong currents.
The beach at Hayburn Wyke has no seasonal restrictions, making it a year-round destination for dog owners. But paths in the woodland can be muddy, especially in winter and after wet weather, so make sure you're prepared!
Hayburn Wyke is best accessed on foot, with two primary routes: The Cinder Track:
A flat, easy-to-follow path along a disused railway line. It is ideal for families, cyclists, and those wanting a gentler return trip. The Cleveland Way:
For more dramatic scenery, the coastal path offers clifftop views. Note that this route can be steep and slippery, with "killer gradients" in some sections. Circular Option:
A popular 5-mile (8km) loop starts at Cloughton Station, follows the Cleveland Way to the Wyke, and returns via the Cinder Track.
The surrounding ancient woodland is a National Trust nature reserve. Flora: Look for oaks twisted by sea breezes and bluebells in the spring. Fauna: The woods are home to roe deer, foxes, badgers, and over 30 species of birds, including great spotted woodpeckers and redstarts.
Parking: Hayburn Wyke Inn: The most convenient spot. In 2026, parking typically costs £1 per hour or £5 per day, often refundable if you spend over £20 at the pub. Alternative: Limited free roadside parking is available in lay-bys on Newlands Lane or at Cloughton Station.
There are no toilets or bins at the beach itself. The nearest facilities and refreshments are at the Hayburn Wyke Inn, a 18th-century coach house known for its real ales and traditional food.
Accessibility: Reaching the beach requires a steep descent on uneven stone steps that can be very muddy. It is generally unsuitable for those with significant mobility issues or standard pushchairs. Local Tip: The waterfall’s flow depends on recent rainfall; after a dry spell, it may be reduced to a trickle, but it becomes spectacular after a heavy downpour.
Scarborough is the perfect base from which to explore the stunning Yorkshire Coast. From dramatic cliffs towering over 600ft above the North Sea, to coastal villages where houses cling to the cliff, between which you can get lost in a maze of narrow streets filled with the echoes of smuggling. Busy resorts like Whitby & Bridlington, wide sweeping bays like Filey Bay, dramatic chalk cliffs at Bempton and Flamborough all await to be discovered. Here's some ideas to get you started...
Get Your Scarborough Fix In '26!
Welcome to Scarborough on the stunning Yorkshire Coast. Award winning sandy beaches, breath-taking coastline, wonderful family attractions and some of the best events in the country.
Scarborough has a huge variety of Accommodation. We have hotels, guest houses, cottages, apartments, holiday parks and much more.
Scarborough has world-class attractions including Scarborough Castle, Alpamare Waterpark, Sealife Scarborough, North Yorkshire Waterpark and many more...
Scarborough has a huge range of events from Armed Forces Day, to Scarborough Open Air Theatre concerts, welcoming the world's biggest acts to the Yorkshire Coast...
