For stunning sea views on an uncrowded coastline where you’ll probably have the beach to yourself, try a visit to Cayton, on the Yorkshire coast.

With a coastal location and a stone’s throw from the North York Moors National Park, Cayton is a magnet for walkers, bird watchers and even fossil hunters. Look carefully and you’ll easily find your own piece of prehistory to discover. The rocks, formed 150 million years ago in the Jurassic era, are hiding ancient corals, starfish and gastropods, the ancestor of modern day snails. The occasional landslip will release more fossils onto the blue flag beach, which is owned by the National Trust and is recognised as a site of special scientific interest.

Cayton Bay is also popular with surfers, who ride the sweeping breakers. What better way to learn to ride those waves than under the instructors of the local surf school? Cayton is equally thrilling for those who enjoy cliff top walks or gentle beach strolls.

The village of Cayton is small and friendly with a charming pub, a village hall and the caravan park, where there is a shop and restaurant.

The countryside near this delightful seaside village is equally impressive, being part of the North York Moors National Park. Attractions include quaint villages, historic pubs and cottages and the famous North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway.

If you fancy a more lively day out, then the vibrant resort of Scarborough, with its two sweeping bays and historic Victorian architecture, is only four miles away. Enjoy a ride on the cliff railway or visit the amusements and fun fair before returning to a peaceful cottage back in Cayton. The historic fishing town of Whitby, home of Captain Cook is also within easy reach, just a few miles north along the coast.

For a quiet seaside break with lots to do on the doorstep, search for holiday cottages in Cayton.