Reighton Sands Beach Beach

About Reighton Sands Beach

Reighton Sands is a wide sandy beach on the North Yorkshire coast of England, located south of Filey and north of Bridlington. It forms part of a long stretch of coastline that curves gently along the North Sea and is valued for its clean sands, open views, and family-friendly atmosphere. Compared to some nearby resorts, Reighton Sands feels relatively spacious and peaceful, particularly at low tide when the beach extends far out towards the sea.

The beach is one of Reighton Sands’ main attractions. At low water, a broad expanse of firm sand is revealed, making it ideal for walking, paddling, beach games, and relaxing by the shore. The gently sloping beach is well suited to families, and rock pools appear in places, providing opportunities for children to explore marine life. At high tide, the sea comes much closer to the cliffs, creating a more enclosed and dramatic coastal scene.

Behind the beach, low chalk cliffs rise up to farmland and holiday accommodation, including a nearby holiday park. Access to the beach is provided by paths and steps down the cliffs, allowing visitors to reach the shore while helping to protect the surrounding landscape. The cliffs themselves are part of the geological interest of the area, revealing layers of chalk and contributing to the distinctive appearance of this section of the Yorkshire coast.

Historically, the area around Reighton Sands has been shaped by agriculture and coastal activity rather than large-scale resort development. During the Second World War, parts of the nearby coastline were used for military training in preparation for the D-Day landings, adding a layer of historical significance to what is now a peaceful recreational area.

Are dogs allowed on Reighton Sands beach?

Dogs are allowed to be walked on Reighton Sands beach all year round as it’s not a popular family beach, so no restrictions are in place.

Getting to Reighton Sands Beach

Address: Reighton Gap, Filey YO14 9SL

Reighton Sands beach can be accessed either by car or foot – or cycle if you’re up for something more adventurous. The easiest way to get there is to drive as close to the cliff side as possible and walk down to the beach.

On foot

One of the best ways to access Reighton Sands beach is to walk from either Filey (3.5 miles/ 1hr 10 min walk) or from Hunmanby Gap beach (1 mile/ 20 minute walk). You can walk on the beach itself from the Filey direction or you can choose to go on the main road from Filey, heading through Primrose Valley and then onto Moor Road and down onto Reighton Sands.

If you are staying at Reighton Sands holiday park, you are already just a stones throw from the beach, so you can simply head down the cliff side onto the beach front from your accommodation.

By car

Reighton Sands is accessible by car using the A165 which goes between Scarborough and Bridlington. If you’re travelling from further afield such as York, Leeds or Hull, you can use the A64 and A614 which navigate to the A165. There is minimal parking available at Reighton Sands, just by the holiday park on Sands Road. There are no public pay and display car parks.

There are a few car parks within a 2 minute walk from the beach, including Northstead Lower Car Park (Burniston Road, Scarborough, YO12 6PF) and Scalby Mills Car Park (Scalby Mills, Scarborough, YO12 6RP). Both of these car parks cost £7 to park for 6 hours so you can spend plenty of time at North Bay.