The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Filey Seaside Resort Printable Guide

Filey Seaside Resort Guide

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Guide to Filey Seaside Resort

Introduction

Filey is a charming seaside resort town on the Yorkshire Coast, England, known for its sandy beaches, Victorian heritage, and picturesque landscapes. It's a quieter alternative to its busier neighbors, Scarborough and Bridlington, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxing coastal escape.

Getting There

  • By Car: Filey is accessible via the A64 from York or Leeds, followed by the A1039.

  • By Train: The Filey railway station has regular services from Hull, Scarborough, and York.

  • By Bus: There are bus services from Scarborough, Bridlington, and other nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

The summer months (June to August) are the most popular for a warm beach experience, but spring and early autumn are also pleasant, offering quieter visits and opportunities for walking or exploring without the crowds.

Things to Do in Filey

1. Filey Beach

  • Overview: A 5-mile stretch of sandy beach, perfect for families, sunbathing, beachcombing, or building sandcastles.

  • Activities: Swimming, paddling, kite flying, and picnicking. There's a promenade with cafes and shops nearby.

2. Filey Brigg

  • Overview: A narrow peninsula of rock that juts out into the North Sea, Filey Brigg is a fascinating geological formation.

  • Activities: Rock pooling, bird watching, fishing, and walking. Be cautious of the tides when exploring!

3. Filey Bird Garden & Animal Park

  • Overview: A family-friendly attraction where you can see a range of birds, animals, and plants.

  • Activities: Meet alpacas, wallabies, and meerkats; there's also a play area for children.

4. Glen Gardens

  • Overview: A beautiful park with gardens, a boating lake, crazy golf, and a play area.

  • Activities: Relaxing walks, mini-golf, boating, and picnics.

5. Cleveland Way National Trail

  • Overview: A walking trail that offers stunning coastal views. The Filey to Scarborough section is especially popular.

  • Activities: Hiking, nature walks, and photography.

6. Filey Museum

  • Overview: A small, award-winning museum housed in two 17th-century cottages.

  • Activities: Learn about Filey's history, fishing heritage, and Victorian life.

Water Sports and Activities

  • Surfing and Paddleboarding: The beach offers ideal conditions for beginners and intermediates, with equipment rentals available.

  • Fishing: Try your luck at sea angling from Filey Brigg or the beach.

  • Sailing and Boating: Filey Sailing Club offers activities for enthusiasts.

Events and Festivals

  • Filey Folk Festival (May): A lively music festival with performances around the town.

  • Filey Regatta (July): Sailing races and water activities.

  • Filey Festival of Filey Food & Drink (August): A chance to sample local produce.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Seafront hotels like The White Lodge Hotel offer stunning coastal views.

  • Guesthouses and B&Bs: Many charming options are available throughout the town.

  • Holiday Cottages: Ideal for families or groups wanting a self-catering experience.

  • Camping and Caravanning: Campsites like Centenary Way provide scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts.

Where to Eat

  • Seafood: Try Inghams Fish Restaurant for classic fish and chips or the Cobble Bar & Bistro for seafood specialties.

  • Cafés and Tearooms: Enjoy homemade cakes and Yorkshire tea at The Lighthouse Tea Room or Deli 24.

  • Pubs and Restaurants: The Star Inn and The Station offer a variety of pub meals and local ales.

Shopping

  • Filey Seafront and Town Centre: Explore quaint shops selling gifts, souvenirs, clothing, and local produce.

  • Filey Market: Held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, crafts, and other items.

Tips for Visitors

  • Tide Times: Check tide times, especially if exploring Filey Brigg or walking on the beach.

  • Parking: There are several car parks near the seafront and town center, but they can fill up quickly in summer.

  • Accessibility: Filey offers accessible paths and facilities for those with limited mobility, particularly along the promenade.

Nearby Attractions

  • Scarborough: A lively seaside town with a castle, aquarium, and theme parks.

  • Bridlington: Known for its sandy beaches, Bridlington Spa, and historic Old Town.

  • Bempton Cliffs: A short drive away, this RSPB reserve is a must-visit for birdwatchers.

Final Thoughts

Filey is an ideal destination for those seeking a traditional British seaside experience with fewer crowds. Whether you're walking along the coastline, exploring the charming town, or relaxing on the beach, Filey offers a delightful mix of activities and tranquil beauty.

Enjoy your visit to this hidden gem on the Yorkshire coast!