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’re incredibly grateful for the continued backing that helps make the Festival possible. The Festival received sponsorship from the North York Moors National Park in 2023, 2024, 2025 — and again for 2026, and additional sponsorship from Northern Powergrid in 2024. Their support, alongside the goodwill of our artists, venue hosts, volunteers and visitors, keeps the Festival thriving year after year

The event has highlighted the local arts scene, supported emerging local artists, benefitted the local economy, and made donations to 36 local organisations. We think that's a legacy to be proud of.