Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage

Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage has established itself as one of the friendliest festivals on the Yorkshire coast — a must-see weekend in the regional arts calendar.

Step inside a village like no other as the doors of cottages are thrown open, transforming Staithes into a trail of pop-up art galleries showcasing painting, print, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, photography and more.

Alongside the open studios, enjoy a programme celebrating Staithes’ rich history and heritage, including walks, talks, photographs and film shows.

Location: Staithes — 11 miles north of Whitby (TS13 5BH)
Contact:  info@staithesfestival.com

North York Moors, Scarborough Borough Council and Welcome to Yorkshire
Credit: Ceri Oakes

Credit: Ceri Oakes

Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage 2026

Friday 11–Sunday 13 September 2026

Preview Evening

Friday 11 September, 6.00pm–9.30pm

Artist Trail

Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, 10.00am–5.30pm

Join us for a weekend celebrating art, creativity, music and heritage throughout the historic fishing village of Staithes.

Artists

Discover 113 artists exhibiting across 67 venues throughout Staithes, including approximately 15 students from The Northern School of Art taking part in a group exhibition. Full-time students Sophie and Harry will also exhibit independently at St Peter’s Centre and 1 Webster Steps.

We’re proud to welcome and support these talented emerging artists. Please take time to visit their exhibitions during the festival weekend.

Explore galleries, cottages, studios and hidden spaces transformed into exhibition venues across the village.

EXPLORE THE 2026 ARTISTS

Live Music


Enjoy two special ticketed headline concerts from Eliza Carthy MBE and the Saltburn Smugglers, alongside a packed programme of live music around the village. Early booking is recommended for both headline concerts.

Many other performances are free to attend, with donations welcomed in support of Staithes Festival or the RNLI.

Button: View music programme and book tickets


Events

Enjoy a packed programme of live music, headline concerts, creative workshops, demonstrations, outdoor cinema, family activities and festival extras.

Many events are completely free to enjoy, while some require payment or advance booking.

VIEW THE FULL EVENT PROGRAMME


BOOK TICKETED EVENTS

Heritage

Discover the stories, history and landscape of Staithes through heritage talks, guided walks, geology, fossils and events celebrating the village’s artistic and maritime past.

Some heritage events are free, while others require payment or advance booking.

EXPLORE HERITAGE EVENTS

 A free taxi service is also available between Chapel Yard and Bank top for visitors with mobility or health needs.

Plan Your Visit

There is no festival visitor parking in the old village. Festival parking will be available at Cowbar, with a free shuttle service for visitors who need assistance.

Please check the latest parking, travel and accessibility information before setting off.

VIEW PARKING & TRAVEL INFORMATION

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