Smugglers and Secret Tunnels
In the 18th century, entire households took part in the “Free Trade.” Passageways beneath cottages connected the shore to cellars and inns, evading excise officers with ease.
Robin Hood’s Bay: Yorkshire Smuggling Haven
Tucked between steep cliffs on the North Yorkshire coast, Robin Hood’s Bay is a village shaped by salt, sea, and secrecy.
Once a centre of smuggling, its narrow streets and hidden tunnels allowed contraband to flow unseen from ship to hearth.
The Walk: Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay
This stunning coastal walk follows the Cleveland Way, offering sea views, seabirds, and wildflower meadows before descending into the historic harbour.
A Village of Stories
From shipwrecks to smuggling legends, Robin Hood’s Bay is a living museum where every alleyway tells a tale of survival and ingenuity.