The Bay Filey is one of North Yorkshire’s most popular holiday destinations, offering a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern amenities. Located just south of the traditional seaside town of Filey, this award-winning holiday village provides a range of self-catering accommodations designed for families, couples, and pet owners. Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend by the sea or an active week exploring the Yorkshire coast, understanding what the resort offers is the first step to a successful trip.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
One of the biggest draws of this resort is the variety of places to stay. Unlike a standard hotel, the village consists of privately owned and managed properties, including traditional cottages, modern apartments, and spacious beach houses. Most accommodations are designed with a coastal theme, offering bright and airy living spaces.
When booking your stay, consider the size of your group. Cottages often feature two to four bedrooms and are ideal for families. Many include private gardens or patios, which are perfect for summer evenings. Apartments are a great choice for couples or smaller families, often located closer to the central facilities. If you want a more luxurious experience, beach houses provide extra space and often feature premium finishes.
Dog-Friendly Options
Many visitors choose this location because it is incredibly pet-friendly. A significant number of the rentals allow dogs, and the resort itself features plenty of green space for walking. The direct access to Filey Beach is a major bonus, as large sections of the beach are dog-friendly year-round, allowing your four-legged friends to enjoy the sand and surf.
On-Site Facilities and Amenities
The resort is designed to be a self-contained village, meaning you have access to everything you need without having to leave the grounds. This makes it a convenient choice for those who want a stress-free break.
- The Leisure Complex: Guests typically have access to a heated indoor swimming pool, a children’s splash pool, a sauna, and a steam room. There is also a fully equipped gym for those who want to maintain their fitness routine.
- The John Paul Jones Pub: This on-site pub serves classic British dishes and a wide selection of drinks. It is a family-friendly environment and often serves as the social hub of the village.
- Bayside Kitchen: For a more casual dining experience or a quick coffee, the Bayside Kitchen offers breakfasts, light lunches, and snacks.
- Tennis and Activity Courts: There are outdoor courts available for tennis and other sports, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor exercise.
Activities for the Whole Family
Beyond the swimming pool, the resort offers a variety of structured activities. These are often part of a “Go Active” program, which includes sessions like archery, air rifle shooting, and junior fencing. It is advisable to check the activity schedule in advance, especially during peak holiday periods, as these sessions can fill up quickly.
For children, there are several outdoor play areas scattered throughout the village. The meadows and lakes within the grounds also provide a peaceful setting for a morning stroll or a bit of nature watching. The wildflower meadows are particularly beautiful in the late spring and summer months.
Direct Access to Filey Beach
Perhaps the most significant advantage of staying here is the direct access to the beach. A well-maintained path leads from the village down the cliffs to a vast stretch of golden sand. This part of the coast is known for being much quieter than the main beach area in Filey town.
At low tide, the beach is incredibly wide, making it perfect for long walks, kite flying, or building sandcastles. You can walk along the sand all the way into Filey town, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on your pace. Always be sure to check the tide times before setting off, as the tide comes in quickly against the cliffs.
Exploring the Local Area
While the resort has plenty to keep you occupied, the surrounding North Yorkshire region is full of attractions. Using the village as a base allows you to explore the heritage coast with ease.
Filey Town
The town of Filey is a charming, traditional seaside resort. It is famous for Filey Brigg, a long rocky peninsula that offers incredible views and great opportunities for rock pooling. The town center has a variety of independent shops, cafes, and traditional fish and chip shops.
Scarborough and Bridlington
A short drive north takes you to Scarborough, the UK’s first seaside resort. Here you can visit the historic Scarborough Castle, the Alpamare waterpark, or the Peasholm Park boating lake. To the south lies Bridlington, known for its busy harbor and the nearby Bempton Cliffs, which is a world-class site for birdwatching, especially for seeing puffins and gannets.
Essential Booking Tips
To ensure you get the most out of your visit, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Book Early for Summer: The resort is extremely popular during school holidays. Booking several months in advance is recommended to secure your preferred accommodation type.
- Check Facility Passes: When booking through a private owner or a third-party site, always confirm if leisure center passes are included in your stay, as some rentals may require an additional fee for pool access.
- Pack for the Coast: The weather on the Yorkshire coast can change rapidly. Even in summer, bring a windproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes for the cliff paths.
- Grocery Deliveries: Most major supermarkets deliver to the resort. Ordering a grocery delivery for the day of your arrival can save you the hassle of finding a shop immediately.
Conclusion
A stay at The Bay Filey offers the perfect balance of coastal relaxation and family-friendly activity. By choosing the right accommodation and taking advantage of the on-site facilities and beach access, you can create a memorable holiday on the North Yorkshire coast. Once you have settled into your cottage or apartment, take some time to explore the local trails and nearby towns to fully experience the beauty of the region. For more tips on travel and local guides, feel free to explore our other articles on coastal destinations and holiday planning.