York Cottage

The narrow lanes into Saltburn wind down through old woodland before the North Sea opens up ahead, all cliffs and long sandy beach stretching toward the Victorian pier.

York Cottage suits couples after a proper bed and a hearty breakfast before tackling the Cleveland Way, or anyone wanting a coastal base without sleeping on canvas — though there are camping pods if you fancy something in between. Saltburn's a proper seaside town with that faded grandeur feel: the cliff lift still runs, surfers head out year-round, and the moors rise sharply inland if the coast gets too blustery. Dogs are welcome by arrangement, so worth asking when you book if you're bringing one along.

It's open all year, which makes it handy for winter walkers or off-season breaks when the beach empties out. Campfires depend on what's allowed when you arrive, so check in at reception. The vibe's low-key and friendly — somewhere to come back to after a long day on the coastal path, shake the sand out of your boots, and sleep well.