Eat Your Way Through the Coast
Seaside holidays aren’t just about sun and sand—they’re about flavour too. On the Yorkshire Coast, food is part of the experience, and it’s especially fun for families. Whether it’s choosing an ice cream flavour for the fifth time that week or daring someone to try a proper Whitby kipper, local food becomes a big part of your holiday memories.
The best part? With a spacious, well-equipped kitchen back at your Smart Estates holiday home, it’s easy to balance eating out with trying local goodies at your own pace.
So, ready for some edible adventures? Here are five must-try local treats to enjoy with the kids while exploring the coast.
Food as Fun for the Whole Family
Eating out (or picking up picnic bits) isn’t just about feeding everyone—it’s a way to explore. Kids love discovering new treats, and you’ll find plenty on the Yorkshire Coast that combine novelty with nostalgia.
You don’t need fancy restaurants to make food special. From seaside classics to old-fashioned sweets and local seafood, every bite tells a bit of the story of where you are.
Trying local food as a family is easy, fun, and often deliciously messy.
Because Shared Treats Make Lasting Memories
Food gives structure to a day out. It’s a reward after a long walk or a reason to explore a new village. And for kids, it’s a way to connect with their surroundings in a simple, memorable way.
Local treats also:
Encourage curiosity (even picky eaters may try something new)
Break up the day in a relaxed, low-pressure way
Offer a chance to support small shops and markets
Become part of your family’s holiday traditions
When you stay in a Smart Estates holiday let, you’re never far from great places to eat, shop, and try something new together.
5 Local Treats to Hunt Down
1. Whitby Kippers
Smoked in traditional smokehouses, these are a bold choice for breakfast—and kids love the idea of something totally different. Try them on toast with butter. Many local cafés serve them fresh, or pick some up from Fortunes Smokehouse.
2. Fresh Crab Sandwiches in Bridlington
A soft roll packed with freshly caught crab is a seaside classic. It’s light, sweet, and often a surprise hit with kids who like tuna. Look for harbourside cafés or pick up some from a local fishmonger and build your own lunch.
3. Ice Cream from Mr Moo’s or Local Vans
Whether it’s a double cone with flakes or a quirky flavour from a small-batch producer, ice cream is an essential part of any coastal holiday. Mr Moo’s near Skipsea is a firm favourite, but every town has its hidden gems.
4. Seaside Rock and Old-School Sweets
Bright, bold, and bursting with sugar, seaside rock and fudge are fun for kids and nostalgic for grown-ups. Visit sweet shops in Filey, Bridlington or Whitby for colourful displays and even live demonstrations.
5. Yorkshire Parkin or Fat Rascals
These local bakes are perfect for an afternoon treat. Parkin is rich and spiced, while a Fat Rascal is like a fruity scone with attitude. Both are easy to find at local bakeries and markets, and lovely with a cup of tea at your holiday let.
Ready to Taste the Coast?
Exploring the Yorkshire Coast through food is one of the simplest (and tastiest) ways to make a family holiday unforgettable. From harbourside crab rolls to giant ice cream cones, every snack is a story.
Our large, family-friendly holiday homes in Whitby, Filey, Bridlington and Hunmanby give you the freedom to eat in, eat out, and stock up on local goodies from nearby markets. Comfortable, flexible, and close to the coast—they’re the perfect base for your next foodie adventure.
