MIKE LAYCOCK finds out about Filey’s history during a visit to the one-time fishing village.

What? Filey Museum, Queen Street, Filey.

Why? It’s a fascinating glimpse into the history of a tiny fishing village which became a family-friendly holiday resort. The museum is run entirely by friendly volunteers, has won visitor attraction awards and is situated in 17th century buildings tucked away in a quiet part of the town. It features a smashing collection of photographs by Victorian photographer Walter Fisher, showing the daily lives of the fishermen and their families. Other photographs show the early aeroplanes that used to fly from Filey beach, when it apparently played a pioneering role in the development of aviation just before the First World War. There are also displays of local craftsmen’s tools, a recreation of the cell that was once in Filey police station, and a cluttered Victorian room where mother and father are dressed soberly, in front of the red glow of a coal fire, and a display of local jet jewellery.

Meanwhile, in the garden there’s a baiting shed, recreating the scene as a fisherman and his wife prepare for a fishing trip.

After touring the museum, we went down to Filey’s huge beach for a wander along the huge sandy beach in the sunshine, watching the donkeys give rides to small children where once the fishing cobles went out to sea.

When? The museum is open from 11am to 5pm Sunday to Friday, and 2pm to 5pm on Saturdays.

How much? Adults £2.50, children up to 18 accompanied by responsible adult) free.

More information: Phone 01723 515013 or visit fileymuseum.co.uk