In the heart of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, where rugged cliffs meet the North Sea’s whispers, Saltburn Smugglers are rekindling a legacy.

This modern shanty group, rooted in the local community, transforms tales from the town’s smuggling heyday into vibrant, contemporary sea shanties.

From the mid-1700s to the late 18th century, Saltburn was a smuggler’s haven. Today, these tales of daring and adventure infuse the Smugglers’ music, blending the old with an energetic new twist. Their performances are more than songs; they’re a journey through time, connecting the past’s thrilling escapades with today’s spirited rhythms. Join the Saltburn Smugglers as they bring history to life, one shanty at a time. Their music isn’t just a nod to the town’s past; it’s a living, breathing celebration of Saltburn’s enduring spirit.

Formed in late 2022 by Professor of Songwriting Keith Ayling, Saltburn Smugglers are the biggest shanty group in the North. With over 52,000 facebook followers, videos with over 3 million views, and 2400 people attending their famous ‘Shanties on the Shore’ summer shows, there’s a mighty buzz around the Smugglers and their exciting, new take on Yorkshire’s shanty history. Every show since January 2025 has sold out, as they bring a blend of original songs of the sea and timeless classics to make the heart sing!