One of the friendliest festivals on the coast

Celebrating the rich history of creativity and heritage of the village of Staithes on the coast of the North York Moors National Park, Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage is a cultural highlight of the whole region.

It continues the tradition of artists being drawn to the village by its inspiring and ever-changing light, and the higgledy-piggledy tumbledown of cottages to the sea. With a programme of heritage talks, the festival celebrates the social and industrial history of the generations of families who have lived here, and their traditions, skills, crafts and intertwined relationships.

The doors of cottages are thrown open as pop-up galleries showcasing the work of artists, sculptors and creatives, offering visitors a chance to meet them and see their work.

A peek inside the cottages is also the start of a journey of discovery into the sometimes perilous lives of local fisherfolk and miners, with heritage events keeping alive the traditions they handed down, their joys and tragedies.

We are incredibly grateful for the support that helps make Staithes Festival possible.

The Festival has received continuous support from the North York Moors National Park Authority since 2023, and their ongoing commitment has helped us develop and strengthen the Festival over recent years.

This year, we are also grateful for additional support from Yorkshire Water and Co-op.

We would also like to thank our previous supporters, including Northern Powergrid, as well as the artists, venue hosts, volunteers, local businesses, residents and visitors who continue to support the Festival. Their generosity, time and goodwill are what help keep Staithes Festival thriving year after year.

Over the years, Staithes Festival has helped celebrate the local arts scene, support emerging artists, strengthen the local economy and give back to the wider community, including donations to 36 local organisations. That is a legacy we are proud to continue.