Happy Days Holidays

HOTEL OVERVIEW

Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first pulled up to Happy Days Holidays on North Marine Road – the name sounds a bit holiday camp-ish, doesn’t it? But you know what, this place completely surprised me. It’s tucked away in Flamborough (about twenty minutes from Bridlington if you’re coming from that direction), and while it’s technically part of the Haven Thornwick Bay setup, it feels like its own little world. The moment you walk in, you realize this isn’t your typical seaside accommodation – there’s this quirky, almost eclectic vibe that’s refreshingly different from the cookie-cutter hotels you usually find along the Yorkshire coast.

What really got me was how they’ve managed to create something genuinely unique without trying too hard, if that makes sense. The rooms have character – I mean actual personality, not just some designer’s idea of what “boutique” should look like. Mine overlooked the North Sea, and honestly, waking up to that view never got old during my stay. The staff clearly know their stuff too; they’ll tell you the best time to walk down to Thornwick Bay when the tide’s out (early morning, by the way), or which path to take if you want to avoid the crowds heading to Bempton Cliffs. It’s that kind of local knowledge that makes a difference.

The location is actually brilliant once you get your bearings – you’re right on the doorstep of some of the most dramatic coastline in Yorkshire, but far enough from Scarborough and the main tourist drags that it feels properly peaceful. I spent ages just walking the coastal path; you can see Flamborough Head lighthouse from certain spots, and on clear days the views stretch for miles. The only thing I’d mention is that you’ll definitely want a car here – while there is a bus service, it’s pretty limited, especially if you want to explore places like Filey or head inland to the Wolds. Parking’s not an issue though, which is a relief after dealing with some of the nightmare situations in other coastal towns.

What struck me most was how they’ve nailed that balance between being comfortable and unpretentious. The whole place has this relaxed, almost house-party atmosphere – you’ll find yourself chatting to other guests over breakfast (which is proper good, by the way) or getting tips about hidden beaches from people who’ve been coming here for years. It’s the sort of place where you actually want to hang around rather than just using it as somewhere to crash between day trips. The 9.2 rating makes perfect sense when you experience it – it’s not trying to be a fancy spa hotel or a luxury resort, but it absolutely delivers on being memorable and genuinely welcoming in a way that feels effortless.