Skinningrove Beach
North Yorkshire
Skinningrove Beach is a historic, gritty and fascinating beach at the foot of the former ironstone mining village of Skinningrove, split by the remains of the old Skinningrove Iron Company pier that was built in the 1880s to load ore onto ships. The beach to the north of the pier is known as Cattersty Sands, a sandy dog friendly stretch popular with local walkers. The village of Skinningrove tumbles down the steep valley to the shore, and the Cleveland Coast scenery here is dramatic, with high cliffs in both directions. The beach has a working, industrial heritage character very different from the polished resorts to the south.
Skinningrove Beach and the adjacent Cattersty Sands are dog friendly with no reported seasonal restrictions. The beach connects north toward Staithes along the Cleveland Way and south toward Saltburn. Dogs can be exercised off-lead on the sandy sections. A car park is available in the village, and the approach to the beach via the valley road is very distinctive. Facilities are limited to those available in the village.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Beach Type
- Sand, Shingle, Rock
- Tide Notes
- Sandy beach sections at low tide. The pier ruins create localised currents. Rocky sections at the base of cliffs can be slippery.
- Facilities
- Limited village facilities. No formal beach facilities. Saltburn-by-the-Sea (approx 4km south) has full amenities
- Parking
- Car park in Skinningrove village. Walk down to beach via valley road
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skinningrove Beach dog friendly?
Yes, Skinningrove Beach is dog friendly, earning a 7/10 rating in our directory. The sandy stretch to the north of the old Victorian pier, known as Cattersty Sands, is particularly well suited to dogs and popular with local walkers, where dogs can be exercised off-lead.
Are dogs allowed at Skinningrove Beach year round?
Yes, there are no reported seasonal restrictions at Skinningrove Beach or Cattersty Sands, so you and your dog are welcome to visit throughout the year. It's a great option if you're looking for a quieter, working-character beach away from the more polished resorts nearby.
What should I know before visiting Skinningrove Beach with my dog?
Facilities at the beach itself are very limited, so it's worth coming prepared with water and any supplies your dog might need — the nearest full amenities are in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, around 4km to the south. There's a car park in Skinningrove village, and you'll reach the beach via the distinctive valley road that winds down to the shore. The beach also connects to the Cleveland Way, making it a good starting point for a longer coastal walk north toward Staithes or south toward Saltburn.
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