Victorian Weekend in Robin Hood's Bay

Victorian Weekend is a magical annual event held at the start of December in the quaint village of Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire. For over 30 years, this much-loved tradition has transported visitors back to the 19th century, celebrating the village’s rich history, Victorian charm, and festive spirit. It’s the perfect way to kick off Christmas festivities and it brings locals and visitors together for a weekend of nostalgia, entertainment, and community spirit, raising money for good causes at the same time.

Whether you’re a first-timer, a returning visitor, or simply curious, here’s a taste of what makes the Victorian Weekend so special—and why it’s an unmissable event if you’re staying at Dock Cottage or any of the other cottages in Robin Hood's Bay.

Friday: The Festivities Begin

The Victorian weekend starts on Friday afternoon at St. Stephen’s Church, with the Christmas tree festival and Christingle service. From there, local schoolchildren from Fylingdales School and Fyling Hall Juniors lead the magical lantern parade from Bank Top down to the Dock, right by Dock Cottage. Watching the parade light up the cobbled streets is really beautiful.

Once at the Dock, the Christmas tree lights are switched on, accompanied by carols around the tree. Mulled wine and German hot dogs are available to keep you warm as the festivities unfold. You can then dive into Robin Hood’s Bay’s fascinating history with a guided smugglers’ tour, sharing stories of Victorian heritage and the village’s notorious smuggling past. For the braver souls, there’s also a ghost walk, uncovering the haunted tales and folklore of Robin Hood's Bay.

The evening wraps up in the cosy pubs around the village with live folk music, local singers, and a Christmas quiz. It’s the perfect end to a magical first day.

Saturday: A Full Day of Victorian Fun

The Victorian Weekend in Robin Hood's Bay comes alive on Saturday with a packed schedule of events. Here’s what to explore:

• Art and Exhibitions: Take a stroll up Jim Bell’s Stile to visit John Henny’s art exhibition, the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum, and Gale Sherwood’s open studio. Don’t miss the Old Chapel, which hosts a stunning display of photographs of Robin Hood’s Bay, past and present.

• Hands-On Fun: Head to the Pottery Studio (downstairs at the Men’s Institute) for a creative workshop where you can make your own Victorian-inspired souvenir to take home.

• Sea Shanty Workshops: Learn to sing like a sailor at the Auckland Shanty Singers’ workshop in the Victoria Hotel. Find your sea legs and embrace the maritime spirit of the Bay!

• Historic Talks: Curious about what the lads and lasses wore in Victorian times? Join a fascinating talk on Victorian attire and step into the shoes of Robin Hood’s Bay’s past residents.

• Vintage Afternoon Tea: If you need a break, indulge in a spot of vintage afternoon tea in one of the charming tearooms dotted around the village.

• Balls Down the Bank: A true highlight of the weekend, this chaotic and hilarious race sees numbered balls hurtling down Robin Hood’s Bay’s famously steep bank. Will your ball be the first to cross the bridge? It’s a brilliant spectacle for kids, dogs, and adults alike!

  
  

Saturday evening concludes with more carols by the tree, a Victorian projection by Animated Objects, and live music from the Black Sheep Singers and Dan Solan.

Sunday: The Final Day of the Victorian Weekend

If you missed anything on Saturday, Sunday offers a second chance to soak it all in.

• Revisit the art exhibitions and the Old Chapel for another look at Robin Hood’s Bay through the years.

• Join in with carols by the tree and enjoy the return of the sea shanty workshops.

• Don’t miss the duck race for the RNLI—buy your rubber ducks from Muir Lea Stores and watch them race down the stream!

• The weekend wraps up with a prize-giving ceremony for the best-dressed Victorian-themed participants (including dogs!) and live music from the Stella Band at the Dock.

  
  

Pop-Up Events at the Victorian Weekend to Watch For

Throughout the weekend, keep an eye out for pop-up surprises:

• Queen Victoria herself may make her annual visit to Robin Hood’s Bay.

• Enjoy thrilling performances by the Whitby Falconers, the roving fire-eater Will Tingle, and Paul the Magnificent, a roving magician.

• Musical treats include the pop-up saxophone ensemble Sweet Harmony.

  
  

Fun fact: Last year, Matt Baker’s Christmas Travels filmed at the Victorian Weekend for Channel 4. If you’d like to relive the event, tune in this December.

Tips for Visitors

• Getting Involved: Dressing up in Victorian attire isn’t mandatory but adds so much to the atmosphere. Don’t be shy—join the fun, you might win a prize.

• Pick up a programme from the local shops with timings and locations of the events so you can plan your day.

• Parking: Driving into the village is tricky during the celebrations, so leave your car in one of the main car parks (Parking is free in the winter months). If you’re staying at Dock Cottage, you can take advantage of the private parking spot—an added bonus in Robin Hood’s Bay.

• Accommodation: The Robin Hood's Bay cottages, including Dock Cottage, get booked up quickly for Victorian Weekend, so it’s worth reserving early. Many visitors book for the following year before they leave!

  
  

Why Visit Victorian Weekend in Robin Hood's Bay?

The Victorian Weekend in Robin Hood’s Bay is a one-of-a-kind event that blends history, community, and festive cheer. Whether you’re exploring its 19th-century charm, singing carols by the Christmas tree, or simply soaking in the magical atmosphere, it’s an unforgettable way to celebrate Christmas in one of North Yorkshire’s most picturesque villages.

Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Dock Cottage, with its unbeatable location by the Dock and stunning sea views, is the perfect base for your Victorian Weekend adventure. If you need to take a break you can retreat back to the cottage and watch it all from the living room window. Book early, and we’ll see you there.