Whitby!

Having lived in Yorkshire for 8 years of my life, I thought it was an outrage that I had never ventured to the beautiful coastal town of Whitby before. I eventually visited last year on what I think was probably that last sunny day of 2013.

 We were greeted by colourful fishing boats bobbing about in the harbour, skinny little seaside houses, and scrawny children leaning over the railing with crabbing lines & plastic buckets.

I'd been reading about "must visit" places, and dragged James through the crowds, up cobble streets and led him up a steep street until we arrived at Fortune's. Looking at a map wasn't necessary, you could follow your nose the whole way, it was delicious sweet & salty woodsmoke that was wafting down the streets from a tiny little fish smokers.

We had to rush, as they only stay open until they've sold all the kippers for the day. We selected what size we wanted and they were wrapped up in newspaper by a friendly lady. They also sell a homemade pate which looked delicious!

Walking around there was a great atmosphere about the place. The scenery was tranquil & relaxing, but there was so much activity, hustle & bustle, things were happening all around us. People paddling, rowing, fishing, working, relaxing, walking, morris dancing, shopping, eating, queue jumping,  playing, waiting, rushing...

Of course when it came to lunch time, there was no question of what we were going to eat, it was just a question of which Fish & Chip shop to choose. We went for the one with the longest queue, because they must be brilliant to be making so many people wait about in this weather!

After scoffing our faces on dinner, we walked up to get out to the sea, as you might imagine, there were some lovely colourful beach huts. It looked like you could rent them which would be a lovely idea if you were planning a couple of days there with your family.

After a meander back through the streets exploring tiny shops, boutiques & antique centres, we headed for an ice cream and made our way back to the car. It was a wonderful day out, it's so great that places like this are only up the road. It's amazing how much you can take your location for granted sometimes. I really must plan some more little day trips in 2014.