Secret Redcar, Marske and Saltburn

Redcar, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, and Marske-by-the-Sea are three villages that grew into resorts in northeast England. The nineteenth century saw the arrival of the railway and the discovery of iron ore, while the twentieth century saw the war leave its mark. In the first half of the twentieth century, the holiday industry boomed, and in recent years it has seen a resurgence. Secret Redcar, Marske, and Saltburn is a book about the history of this corner of the coastline, with tales of remarkable characters, unusual events, and tucked-away or disappeared historical buildings and locations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of northeast England, the town of Redcar and the resort of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, along with the neighboring village of Marske-by-the-Sea, span an 8-mile stretch of the shore. In his captivating book, author Colin Wilkinson delves into the fascinating stories behind the transformation of these once modest villages into the vibrant resorts they are today.

Centuries ago, the beaches in this region were a haven for smugglers, offering a secluded and protected landscape for their illicit activities. However, the arrival of the railway in the nineteenth century brought a wave of visitors, and with it, the emergence of new industries. The discovery of iron ore in the nearby hills sparked a surge in population, as people flocked to the area in search of work.

The twentieth century brought its share of challenges to the area. During the First World War, lookout posts were established on the beaches, serving as early warning stations to detect incoming Zeppelins. In Marske, an aerodrome was set up nearby to train pilots. The Depression in the 1930s and the post-war industrial decline posed hardships, but the holiday industry experienced a remarkable boom in the first half of the twentieth century, and it has continued to thrive in recent years.

Over the course of the last century, Redcar has witnessed the birth of Redcar Racecourse, a renowned motor racing venue along the beach. It has also hosted famous visitors such as Emily Pankhurst and Keir Hardy, adding to its rich history and cultural significance. Secret Redcar, Marske, and Saltburn is a treasure trove of tales, featuring remarkable characters, unusual events, and hidden historical buildings and locations. Whether you have a deep interest in the history of this coastal region of the North East or are simply seeking an engaging and informative read, this book is sure to captivate your imagination.

Weight: 270g
Dimension: 165 x 233 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398114975