Staithes is a small village about 11 miles north of Whitby. As the village grew the newer buildings had to be built up on top of the hill as there is not an inch of space at sea level in the old village for expansion.

It was once a busy sea port with large fishing fleets and tales of pirates and smugglers. Mineral production was also a big industry which continues today. In 1744 as a teenager Captain James Cook moved to Staithes to work for a local shopkeeper but it was not long before his interests turned towards the sea.