40 of us went to Whitby and stayed at Larpool Hall. The accommodation was great, even if the 18th century floors were creaking from old age. Food was good all weekend, with friendly service.

Some of us took the opportunity to explore Whitby after we arrived on a gloriously sunny day.

On these holidays, our members lead the walks. Some of our members go above and beyond, checking out the walks ahead of time, (the Saturday long walk and Sunday short walk, thanks Harleen, Manjit and their merry band of friends who helped them having come up early for a longer break), and the Sunday long walk had been walked a few years ago by that day’s leader. The Hall also provides detailed walking guides if anyone fancied doing their own thing.

On the Saturday, the long walk went from Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay. This was around 10 miles with some steep climbs and descents and great views across the seafront.

Meanwhile, the less adventurous walkers took the 5 miles or so down the Cinder Track from the hotel to Robin Hood’s Bay and used the bus to get back to the hotel. This also suited the amblers who were able to make good use of pubs on the way.

On the Sunday, we went inland to the Hole of Horcum, another 10 mile walk, not quite as steep but similar amount of climbing overall. The Hole of Horcum is a large, naturally formed bowl.
After escaping the hole, we traversed round, viewing the Fylingdales early warning radar system, now a three-sided slab with who knows what technology replacing the famous white domes that used to be spotted alongside the A169.

Meanwhile, a shorter walk was arranged from Staithes, on the coast, north of Whitby, down to the bay and around and gentle rise up onto the cliffs onto the coastal path with beautiful views. The walk then went through the village of Port Mulgrave and up through the woods before heading back into Staithes.

After a leisurely breakfast on Monday, some returned home and some had another stroll to Whitby.