Hinderwell was known in the Domesday Book as Hindrevvelle, the name being derived from Hilda. St Hilda is reputed to have rested here on her journey from Guisborough to Whitby Abbey and refreshed herself at the well in the churchyard.  Hinderwell is situated about three quarters of a mile inland from the coast and lies between Staithes and Runswick Bay. It is comprised largely of one long street with buildings of mixed architecture, including several listed properties. The parish church of St Hilda standing at the northern end of the village dates from about 1234.

