Whitby & Scarborough Coastal Walks, 22nd 23rd & 24th May 98. (The Hamster Week – end)
We all left Nottingham in high spirits on what was to be this year’s last major outing. In addition, it was the new committee’s first organised function. Big things were expected of them.
We found our campsite at Grouse Hill, just as last orders were being called. So, while half of us got to grips with the tents. The other half decided that tents could wait a few minutes, and disappeared in to the Flask, which was about a hundred meters down the road. They re-appeared just after midnight, and the finalities were completed to our by now quite large village. With friends we now numbered about 26 people.
By now (And for the rest of the weekend), it was becoming apparent that my predilection with the attractiveness of farm animals (Sheep actually). Was being eroded by Dan’s constant referrals to the superior qualities of hamsters (Gerbils being the deluxe models, by virtue of being able to use their tails to pull them back the right way out, after they may have inadvertently become turned inside out during a moment of passion).
Bright and early next morning, we all resisted the temptation to bounce out of bed, until a much more civilised hour. Therefore, it was, that at the crack of eleven, we set out to do our first walk. This was la leisurely fifteen Kilometres, based from the by now disused station at Robin Hood’s Bay.
Considering that all we had ever done before was quite hard nine Kms up steep hills, this was a complete departure from the norm. As I was nominally Walk Leader on this one and had planned the route. I can assure you that I was under a little stress at the time (I just hope that I didn’t show it).
We started off heading south-west, along the track bed of the old railway. It was quite scenic, rather pleasant, and about 180 degrees off course! So having backtracked a few hundred meters we headed away from the station to the north-east. The track swung around to the left following the coast towards Whitby.
Near High Hawkser we veered off across the fields. Gaining Gnipe Howe, Widdy Fields, and Whitby Laithes Farm. Before crossing Beacon Hill to Ling Farm and the Whitestone Point fog signal.
Here we turned back along the Cleveland Way towards Robin Hood’s Bay Again. And a well deserved evening of booze and food. We found a site in which to set up a mass Bar – B. It was in a valley by a stream. We cooked and drank by open fires (Properly controlled of course). Until the booze ran out and we were forced to adjourn to the pub. When we were ejected at about closing time some of the troupe were still in fine enough fettle to return to the Bar – B.
So it was that bright and early the next morning (Sunday). We all once more resolutely resisted the temptation to get out of bed. However, steadfastly remained asleep, in the face of mounting cheerfulness. This time eleven –o-clock saw us at Sandsend preparing to walk through Mulgrave Woods. The ruined Mulgrave Castle is just too beautiful to miss (But please note that it is in an unsafe condition. And caution must be exercised). The weather was as beautiful as the scenery, as we crossed the open farmland the other side of the trees.
At East Barnby we left the road again after only a brief moment, to go down a footpath through a farm at 828 – 128. PLEASE NOTE. The phone box is actually before the junction. In addition, the footpath is AS MARKED ON THE MAP. NOT ® NOT as marked on the gate post on the ground. If you follow the signpost you will find yourself crossing farmland & fences NOT the actual footpath.
Then through Claymoor and High Cliff. To the Cleveland Way and back again to Sandsend. A delightful walk through wonderful cliff top views, and deep valleys.
Dinner was Fish & Chips in Scarborough. Followed by a few pints in The Jolly Roger, just around the corner. Then home to the campsite.
Monday morning we rose early (For us). And “Did York” on the way home. Before having a few jars in Nottingham.
In my humble opinion the best trip yet. Although I may be a little biased. People 10/10. Gerbils & Hamsters, 8/10. Sheep 8/10.