In 1889, the antiquarian journal Old Yorkshire published “A Ramble in North Yorkshire,” a vivid account of Staithes and the surrounding coast. Part travel writing, part folklore collection, and part social commentary, it captures how Victorian visitors viewed the village and its people. Some of the descriptions are wonderfully observant. Others are deeply patronising by modern standards. The anonymous author was fascinated by what they saw as the “quaintness” and superstition

Each year, International Dark Sky Week invites us to look up—to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and reflect on the importance of protecting it. But in Staithes, darkness has never been just a backdrop. It has shaped lives, guided fishermen, inspired stories, and even played a role in war. From the flicker of firelight to the glow of the stars, the history of this coastal village is deeply entwined with the night. 🔥 Fire in the Darkness: Burning Off the Fleet Before mo

When we think about history, we often think about what was written down — records, diaries, official documents. But in Staithes, much of the village’s past was sung . Songs carried stories. Hymns carried grief. Choruses carried community. And for generations, the people of Staithes filled chapels, cottages, pubs, hillsides and even the open seafront with music. Just recently, we shared a Victorian Staithes cricket song on this blog (here) — full of local jokes and reference