England now has 76 blue flag beaches and two are in our area - find out which they are
The North Yorkshire coast is home to two of England’s 76 Blue Flag beaches.
Blue Flag status is awarded to those beaches which meet safe and clean standards when it comes to water quality and the environment.
There are two Blue Flag beaches in our area: Whitby West Cliff and Scarborough North Bay.
Both have blue flag seasons which run from May 15 until September 30.
“Whitby is a sandy and rocky beach backed by cliffs, usually favoured by the younger generation.
“Whitby was the home of Captain James Cook and has welcomed visitors to its sandy shores for hundreds of years.
“A long stretch of sandy beach with some rocks. Backed by cliffs it is hugely popular with families and children.
“Whitby West Cliff is accessible via A171 and A174 and is within easy walking distance from the town centre.”
Facilities and characteristics
Kiosk
Disabled friendly
Disabled can access water
Lifeguards on beach
The beach is sandy
The site is coastal
The Blue Flag Website says of Scarborough North Bay:“North Bay is a sandy beach with rocky outcrops to the north which become isolated at high tide and provide rock pool areas at low tide.
“To the south, there is a flat sandy area which leads onto rock armour and continues around the headland to South Bay.
“The main road around the headland runs parallel to the beach with ample parking provided.
“The beach is used by a wide range of users, from families through to recreational water sports enthusiasts, with there being a number of beach chalets available for hire.
“The beach is patrolled by an RNLI qualified lifeguard service during the summer season.
Facilities and characteristics
Kiosk
Disabled friendly
Disabled can access water
Visually impaired can access water
Lifeguards on beach
The beach is sandy
The site is coastal