Visitor centres on the Yorkshire Coast

 

 

 

Our centre at the edge of the sea in Robin Hood’s Bay village will help you discover what makes this part of the Yorkshire Coast so special. Hands-on models and fascinating displays tell the story of the area’s distinctive geology and the impact of the elements, local wildlife and the secret history of smuggling.

 

 

 

The exhibition is all about life at 'the edge' - living, working and surviving where land meets sea. You can have fun making waves, generating wind power and finding out more about the natural processes that shape the coast.

 

 

Our rock pool tank is a firm favourite with children and adults alike. Spot shore crabs, hermit crabs, blennies, winkles, sea anemones, prawns and other creatures, all found in the rock pools just outside the centre.

 

There’s always something new to see. Learn about the work National Trust rangers are doing at our countryside sites or find out more about other places to visit locally. There are regular events too, including art exhibitions, talks and rock pool safaris.

 

 

National Trust membership can be purchased here and your money stays locally, with proceeds contributing to the upkeep of the Old Coastguard Station and the beautiful coastline surrounding it.

 

For opening dates and times, click here.

 

If you fall in love with the place, you can even stay in a cosy holiday apartment on the top floor, the Boatman's Loft. 

 

 

 

 

Situated at the southern end of Robin Hood’s Bay, Ravenscar Visitor Centre is a welcoming gateway to the Yorkshire Coast. Here you’ll find information about the local area, walking and cycling routes, events and self-led activities such as geocaching and wildlife watching.  Dip into the fascinating story of  Ravenscar, known as ‘The Town That Never Was’; you can delve deeper into the tale on a self-led trail around the village. With the remains of Peak Alum Works and a WWII radar station also on the doorstep, there’s a wealth of human history to explore within easy walking distance. 

 

 

Plenty of public parking can be found on the road close by. The Cleveland Way National Trail and Cinder Track cycle route along the old Scarborough to Whitby railway line bring hikers and bikers right to the door. With picnic tables outside, it’s the perfect spot to rest and refuel with a hot or cold drink and a snack from our range of refreshments. 

 

Free entry. Check opening times here. 

 

The centre came into the hands of the National Trust as the result of a kind bequest from local naturalist and author, Nan Sykes.