Yorkshire beaches you can reach on the train ahead of sixth heatwave

With the UK set for its sixth heatwave, Yorkshire beaches are looking as tempting as ever.

Throwing down a beach towel doesn’t mean hours behind the steering wheel, though. For a convenient day out, skip the car and take the train instead.

These are the best Yorkshire beaches to reach by rail – avoiding pricey parking and carpets covered in sand.

Bridlington South Beach

Horses and riders enjoying exercising on Filey beach, by Heather Palmer.

From Bridlington Station, Bridlington South Beach is less than a 15-minute walk. This spot has a glowing reputation for its clean promenade and family-friendly atmosphere. There are fish and chips at Richie’s Cafe, trips on the Seafront Land Train, and a children's paddling pool.

Whitby Beach

Walking from Whitby Station to its beach is an experience in itself. Rooted in ghost tales and smuggler legends, the maritime town is a maze of snickelways and cobbled yards. Whitby Beach is only a 15-minute walk from the station, with chalets available to hire until September and deck chairs until October.

Filey Beach

Scarborough beach  Richard Ponter

Filey Station is only a 10-minute walk away from one of Yorkshire’s best beaches. Filey Beach is backed by a sculpture trail and a paddling pool, which remains open until September 30. At its northern end, visitors can walk along to Filey Brigg Cliffs, enjoying panoramic views and possible sightings of grey and common seals.

Scarborough Beach

Scarborough is an iconic Yorkshire seaside town, and better yet, South Bay Beach is less than a 15-minute walk from its train station. Backed by amusement arcades and known for its sheltered waters, it’s a popular choice for families. Alternatively, walk 25 minutes to North Bay Beach, a quieter spot on the opposite side of Scarborough’s headland.

Skinningrove Beach

Scarborough beach in May 2020 James Hardisty

For a longer stretch of the legs, Skinningrove Beach is an adventurous choice by train. Arriving at Saltburn Station, beachgoers follow a 1.5-hour coastal path along a grassy headland. Backed by grass-covered cliffs, this village beach has a quieter atmosphere, without arcades or a seafront promenade.