If you judge a pub by its view, this must be one of the best in Britain. The Royal Hotel (don’t let the misleading name fool you - there isn’t actually any accommodation) sits in the heart of pretty Runswick Bay amid a jumble of honey-coloured cottages with pantiled roofs. White picket fences protect gardens overflowing with summery hollyhocks, while the majestic sands are spread out below.
Indoors, the scenery is a little simpler, but just as inviting. The traditional interiors feature exposed stone walls, distressed wooden flooring and studded leather banquette seating. The family room at the back of the pub has old pictures from Runswick's heyday as a fishing village, as well as games and a TV (useful distractions on rainy days with the kids), but the terrace which overlooks the bay is yours for the taking. The Royal is also popular with ramblers embarking upon a long clifftop walk from Staithes, either as a spot to fuel up or a reward at the end of the day, depending which direction you are heading in. Your four-legged companions are more than welcome too.
As for the menu, The Royal Hotel offers a daily changing specials board alongside a fixed a la carte, which is replete with all of the usual pub grub as well as a few more contemporary takes. If you want to keep things traditional, order the likes of whitebait served with a garlic mayonnaise dip or battered cod accompanied by thick chips and mushy peas. For something a little less pub and a little more gastro, instead opt for a noodle stir fry or moules mariniere with slices of crusty bread. There isn’t a dedicated children’s menu at The Royal, but dishes like chicken goujons served with a barbecue dip are sure to satisfy little ones.