UK’s Most Beautiful Village How Runswick Bay’s Rising Property Prices Are Pricing Out Locals And Changing The Character Of The Village

Published on September 7, 2025

UK’s most beautiful village, Runswick Bay, is facing significant challenges as locals grapple with skyrocketing property prices driven by an influx of second homeowners. While the village’s stunning landscapes and tranquil charm have earned it widespread recognition, the rising demand for vacation homes has made it increasingly difficult for long-time residents to afford living there. As property values soar, locals worry that their community’s unique character is at risk, with absentee owners profiting from short-term tourism while year-round residents are being priced out of their own homes.

Nestled along the rugged coastline of North Yorkshire, Runswick Bay is a village that has captivated the hearts of many, earning it the coveted title of “the UK’s most beautiful village.” Known for its spectacular vistas, golden sands, and rich history, the village has become a sought-after destination for both visitors and homebuyers. Yet, while this recognition has put Runswick Bay on the map, the residents who call this village home have shared their concerns about the growing influence of second homeowners and the impact it has on the local community.

The beauty of Runswick Bay, with its unspoiled coastline, lush landscapes, and picturesque surroundings, has made it a favorite among tourists and those looking for a peaceful retreat. The village is famed for its golden beaches, where dolphins can often be seen playing in the waves, and its exceptional fossil discoveries, which attract paleontologists and history enthusiasts. For many, the allure of the area is undeniable, and it is no wonder that it was recently hailed as one of the finest places to live in the UK.

However, this newfound recognition has brought with it a surge in property prices. Runswick Bay, once a peaceful village where families could afford to live and work, is now increasingly attracting second homeowners and wealthy buyers. While the influx of tourists and new residents has undoubtedly brought some economic benefits, it has also created significant challenges for the locals who have lived there for generations.

The village’s tranquil atmosphere, which was once its greatest charm, has become a double-edged sword. As more and more people buy vacation homes in Runswick Bay, many of the properties are left vacant for much of the year. This trend is not unique to Runswick Bay but is part of a broader issue faced by many coastal communities in the UK, where second homeowners drive property prices higher, making it increasingly difficult for young families and working-class individuals to afford a home. For the locals in Runswick Bay, the situation has led to concerns that their community is slowly being overtaken by absentee owners who are more interested in the financial returns from holiday rentals than in fostering a vibrant, year-round local population.

Runswick Bay, which boasts only three pubs, a café, and a tearoom, has limited amenities to support the influx of seasonal visitors. The nearest shops are a small village store in Hinderwell, around a 25-minute walk away, or a Co-op in Staithes, which is about a seven-minute drive away. The lack of infrastructure and services, combined with the sharp rise in property prices, has led to a growing divide between the locals and the newcomers.

Residents of Runswick Bay have expressed frustration with the increasing number of properties being bought as holiday homes, particularly as many second homeowners only visit during peak seasons. The village, once home to a tight-knit community, is now beginning to feel more like a transient holiday destination than a place for long-term residents. Many feel that the charm of Runswick Bay, which once attracted people looking for a peaceful, affordable life, is being diluted by an influx of wealthy property owners who only use their homes for short stays.

The rise in property values has made it difficult for many working families to remain in the village. Local schools and businesses, which rely on a year-round population, are now facing challenges as the cost of living in the area has increased. The once affordable housing market is now out of reach for many, and those who have lived in Runswick Bay for years are finding themselves priced out of the market. This has raised concerns that, in the near future, the village will no longer be a place where working-class families can live and thrive, but a playground for the wealthy.

Despite these challenges, Runswick Bay’s residents remain deeply proud of their village. Many have expressed that they would like to see a balance between the needs of the local community and the growing tourism industry. The issue of second homeowners is not something that can be easily solved, but there is a growing call for more sustainable and responsible tourism practices. The village is keen to retain its unique character and community spirit, and there is a desire to preserve the area’s natural beauty while also ensuring that it remains a place where locals can continue to live and work.

While it may be too late to turn back the clock on the increasing influence of second homeowners, there is still time to address the challenges that come with it. The residents of Runswick Bay are not opposed to tourism or the economic benefits it brings, but they want to ensure that their community does not become a victim of its own success. They hope that, through thoughtful planning and community involvement, Runswick Bay can find a way to balance the needs of both its residents and visitors.

UK’s most beautiful village, Runswick Bay, is facing a growing crisis as property prices soar due to an influx of second homeowners. Locals are struggling to remain in their village as rising costs push them out of their own community.

In the meantime, the village will continue to draw tourists with its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and serene surroundings. But for those who call Runswick Bay home, it is a place that is increasingly feeling the pressures of success. As the village navigates the challenges of rising property prices, absentee owners, and a growing tourism industry, its future remains uncertain. Will it continue to be a village for the people who live there, or will it become just another destination for those with the means to visit for a weekend getaway? Only time will tell.