The heather and grasslands of the North York Moors are just inland of this pretty cottage, while in the opposite direction are the cliffs of the Heritage Coastline and, below them, Whitby’s sandy West Beach. Rising from both banks of the River Esk, the town has much to see and do, all of it easily enjoyed on foot. Explore ancient cobbled streets lined with individual shops (Whitby is famous for its jet jewellery), climb 199 steps up the East Cliff to St Mary’s Church and the iconic Abbey, book a boat ride from the busy working harbour and tuck into some freshly-caught fish with a side of fries – all are essentials for any holiday here. The trains of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway run from the town station into the National Park, making exploration further afield traffic-free, but if you’re in the mood for a dramatic drive there are plenty of roads across the moorland to test your mettle. Venture into the beautiful Esk Valley – you can do so by train from Whitby or by car – and you’ll find a choice of circular walks starting at Danby (16 miles) – ask for a guide at the National Park Visitor Centre.
Planning a busy day of sightseeing or some chill-out time on the coast? Whichever you choose, your day will begin and end well at this cosy, contemporary cottage that’s been carefully designed to suit either a small family or set of friends. Step through the front door and you’re into an open-plan lounge/kitchen/dining room that’s airy and light, with French windows to one end. Snuggle on a sofa, catch up on your favourite TV programmes or cook up a tasty treat and chat for hours around the table… there’s room for everyone to enjoy together-time here. Upstairs, the emphasis is on calm, quiet and quality sleep, with two tastefully furnished bedrooms each with en-suite facilities. The first has a Juliette balcony looking out on the back garden, and in the second you can choose whether you want the bed to be made up as a king-size or twins.
Getting away from it all isn’t always about being super-busy, so for at-home style relaxation the rear garden is idyllic. Accessed via French doors from the lounge area, it has feature decking, outdoor furniture and a cabin-style summerhouse which, as well as housing a washing machine and tumble dryer, has a comfy sofa and TV/DVD… a perfect place to chill as a couple, or for the children to enjoy some independent play.