Things To Do
Kirkleatham Owl Centre
Kirkleatham Owl Centre is a charming wildlife attraction set in the historic village of Kirkleatham, offering visitors the chance to meet an impressive variety of animals, from majestic owls to meerkats, vultures, rabbits and more. Established in 1990, it is the UK’s oldest dedicated owl center and also serves as the area’s only specialist wildlife rehabilitation center, caring for hundreds of animals each year. With daily flying displays, engaging encounters, and a peaceful setting beside the 1709 Kirkleatham Old Hall, it’s a much‑loved destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a memorable day out!
Whitby Marine Discovery Centre & Whitby Lobster Hatchery
Whitby Lobster Hatchery is an inspirational and engaging way to teach young and old about the benefits of looking after our environment and also provide a space to study and research our marine habitat. This is a wonderful aquarium showcasing our local marine life and carries out active conservation work in the local area. It's a low cost entry fee and dog friendly!
The Sheep Sanctuary
At The Sheep Sanctuary in North Yorkshire, nearly 300 animals—each with a story of survival— find peace, healing, and safety thanks to people like you. From elderly sheep and orphaned lambs who’ve never known kindness, your compassion keeps our gates open. You can attend a needle felting workshop, book a sheep cuddling experience or even stay overnight at their glamping pods! - Visits by pre-booking only.
Kirkleatham Walled Garden
Kirkleatham Walled Garden is a beautifully restored Grade II listed Victorian garden that reopened in 2021 after being closed for more than 30 years. Set within the historic Kirkleatham Estate, it features stunning formal and informal gardens, a science garden, glasshouse, café, shop and a 350‑seat pavilion used for weddings, events and workshops. With vibrant planting schemes, peaceful paths, and family‑friendly spaces including a water play area, it’s a charming spot to wander, learn, and unwind, perfect for visitors of all ages.
Kirkleatham Museum
Kirkleatham Museum is a fascinating local heritage museum housed in a magnificent 1709 Queen Anne building that originally served as a Free School for Boys. Inside, visitors will find a treasure trove of artefacts and exhibitions exploring Redcar and Cleveland’s industrial, maritime, and social history, including popular displays such as the Steel Stories exhibition covering the region’s steelmaking past. The museum also hosts an annual program of family‑friendly events, seasonal activities, and temporary exhibitions. Set within attractive grounds featuring woodland trails and accessible pathways, it’s an inviting spot for visitors of all ages to learn, explore, and enjoy.
Land of Iron
"Situated on the site of Loftus Mine, the first mine to open in Cleveland, Land of Iron celebrates the legacy of ironstone mining and the broader industrial heritage of the region. The Tees Valley was the powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution and the British Empire. Her 83 ironstone mines dispatched iron worldwide, forming the fabric of railways and bridges across Europe, America, Africa, India and Australia."
Cattersty Sands
Our local beach, alot quieter than Saltburn Beach and has a free car park. Public toilets in the village close to the car park.
Saltburn-by-the-Sea
Saltburn-by-the-Sea! A Victorian spa town and former smugglers village. Saltburn is home to the worlds oldest funicular railway (cliff lift) and only traditional leisure pier in Yorkshire. The valley gardens have a miniature railway that takes you to a woodland tea room. Lots of individual and boutique shops, pubs and restaurants.
Whitby
Whitby! The historic Abbey, the fish 'n' chips, the beach, shopping... the list is endless! Whitby is just 25 min drive, or 50 mins on the bus, from Loftus.
Staithes
Staithes is a picturesque coastal village in North Yorkshire, celebrated for its rich maritime history, dramatic cliff‑top scenery, and timeless charm. Once a bustling fishing port, its sheltered harbour and narrow cobbled streets offer a glimpse into traditional seaside life. Today, Staithes attracts visitors for its striking coastal views, excellent fossil‑hunting along the Jurassic coastline, and its strong artistic heritage—most famously the Staithes Group of late‑19th‑century artists inspired by its natural beauty. The village is also closely linked to the early life of Captain James Cook, who began his apprenticeship here before embarking on his legendary voyages. With scenic walks, cosy cottages, art galleries, and a serene harbour, Staithes remains one of North Yorkshire’s most charming coastal spots.