Discover a piece of living history on the Yorkshire coast with the Saltburn Cliff Tramway — the oldest water-balanced funicular still in operation in the UK.
First opened in 1884, this charming Victorian lift continues to impress visitors of all ages. Powered by a 1,500-litre water tank system, each of the two cars travels on parallel tracks down a 71% incline. The car at the top fills with water until it outweighs the lower one, gently descending and pulling the other to the top — an eco-friendly, beautifully engineered ride that’s both functional and fascinating.
Covering a 120-foot drop, the tramway links the Upper Promenade with the Lower Promenade and Saltburn Pier, offering breathtaking views of the North Yorkshire coastline.
👣 Visitor Highlight:
“We absolutely loved the tramway — it felt like stepping into another era. The ride was smooth, the view of the sea was amazing, and my kids were fascinated by the water-powered system. Such a charming part of Saltburn’s character — we went up and down twice!”
— Anna L., Manchester
🕰️ Perfect For:
Families
History lovers
Couples on a coastal getaway
Visitors looking to explore Saltburn’s heritage in a unique way
🎟️ Tickets are available on-site, and the tramway generally operates during tourist season (spring to autumn).
After your ride, take time to enjoy the traditional British seaside atmosphere, explore Saltburn Pier, or treat yourself to fish and chips with a view.
📌 Add this to your Yorkshire bucket list!
📍 Lower Prom, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, TS12 1HQ, United Kingdom
📞 +44 1287 622528
