Saltburn named ‘coastal gem’ by Sunday Times and Airbnb

Saltburn-by-the-Sea, perched on the North East/North Yorkshire coast, has repeatedly found itself in the spotlight as one of the region’s most desirable places to live and visit.

The town was recently recognised in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide, where judges praised its “unique coastal setting and vibrant town centre”.

Saltburn (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

It comes after Saltburn was also highlighted by Airbnb as one of the UK’s top “coastal gems” as part of its Unfollow the Crowd campaign, aimed at encouraging travellers to look beyond overcrowded tourist hotspots.

According to Airbnb, search interest for Saltburn-by-the-Sea rose by 39 per cent last year and this year, suggesting more people are discovering what locals have known for years.

The town’s famous pier, which dates back to 1869, remains a focal point for visitors, offering views across the North Sea and a reminder of Saltburn’s long history as a seaside resort.

Nearby, the historic cliff lift continues to carry people between the town and the promenade.

The water-powered funicular, which opened in the 1880s, is one of Saltburn’s best-loved features and adds to the sense that the town has preserved much of its original character.

In recent years, the town has built a reputation for its surf scene, independent cafés, restaurants, bars, and creative businesses.

Its beach regularly attracts surfers and paddleboarders, while walkers are drawn to the Cleveland Way and the surrounding coastline.

Away from the seafront, the town centre offers a mix of independent shops and places to eat and drink, helping to give Saltburn the lively, community-led feel that judges and visitors often point to.

Saltburn (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

The town’s history stretches back to the Victorian era, when it was transformed from a small coastal settlement into a planned seaside resort following the arrival of the railway.

Its distinctive street layout, including the so-called “Jewel streets” near the seafront, was designed to make the most of the town’s elevated position and sea views.

For those looking for green space, Saltburn Valley Gardens and Saltburn Valley Woods offer woodland walks close to the beach, with gardens, a miniature railway, and family-friendly attractions adding to the town’s appeal.

The surrounding area also gives residents and visitors easy access to wider beauty spots along the coast and inland towards the North York Moors.

Airbnb’s campaign suggested that more people are looking for places where they can slow down, stay locally, and discover somewhere with real character, with the online holiday and stay experts saying Saltburn “appears to fit that mood perfectly.”

Its transport links add to its liveability, with rail connections towards Middlesbrough and Darlington making it more practical for commuters than some remote coastal communities.

The Sunday Times guide considered factors such as schools, transport, broadband, mobile signal, green space, and the health of the high street when compiling its list.

For Saltburn, the verdict was clear: this is a town with “fresh air and heritage in spades.”

Reviews often highlight its peaceful atmosphere, coastal walks, and sense of community, while regular visitors praise it as a place that feels both lively and laid-back.

Like many desirable seaside towns, Saltburn is busiest in the summer months and on sunny weekends, when the beach, pier, and cafés draw crowds.