The sea has always been a controlling influence in the way of life of those who live along its shores. With the exception of the thwarted Victorian development at Ravenscar, all the coastal villages are in sheltered situations where there is easy access to the shore. The sea has provided both a means of communication and transport as well as a rich harvest.

The design of the Yorkshire coble, which has been used by generations of local fishermen, is a direct result of the nature of the coastline where vessels often had to be launched and landed directly from the shore.

The sea is a dangerous place. Local graveyards have memorials to men lost at sea and plaques at the local lifeboat stations record the many heroic rescues carried out over the years.

Extractive industry has played a major role in shaping the present coastline as well as having a significant influence on the way of life of local people. From the early years of the 17th century mines and quarries have exploited the rich mineral wealth in the form of alum, jet, ironstone and building stone. The industry continues today in the potash mine at Boulby, one of the deepest mines in Europe.

• The Natural World
• Buildings and Architecture
• Working Now and Then
• Historic Routes
• Culture & Traditions