Whitby and the Yorkshire coast in original art: harbours, headlands and North Sea light

Red roofs tumbling down to the harbour, the abbey ruins on the cliff, fishing cobles and the grey-green North Sea — the Yorkshire coast has drawn painters for well over a century. Staithes even had its own group of artists in the late 1800s.

From Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay to Scarborough and Filey, an original coastal painting brings the salt air and moving light of the North Sea into your home.

North Sea light is different

Unlike the bright blues of Cornwall, the Yorkshire coast is often moody — silver mornings, heavy cloud, sudden sun on wet sand. Many collectors love it for exactly that drama.

When you look at a seascape, ask whether you can feel the weather and the movement of the water.

The North Sea is rarely blue — and that's its beauty.

Harbours, villages and headlands

Harbour scenes are full of detail: boats, cottages, steps and gulls. Wide headland views are calmer and simpler. Think about whether your room needs busy and lively or quiet and open.

Medium, size and framing

Oils capture crashing waves and stormy skies; watercolours suit soft harbour mornings and need glass. A white or pale driftwood frame keeps a coastal piece fresh.

Use "View on a wall" on any painting page to check size and frame before you get in touch.

Buy direct from the artist

There's no commission on artistgallery, so every pound goes to the painter. Message them from the painting page to ask where it was painted and how it should be cared for.

If you love the coast, our Cornish seascape guide is worth a read too.