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Swaledale Outdoor Club |
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Swaledale Outdoor Club |
| > Home > Newsletter > Walking > Walk from Sandsend |
Walk from Sandsend12 milesEight human participants, plus two dogs, presented at Sandsend on a splendid July morning, greeted by impressive seas. The high tide allowed just enough room to walk along the beach and keep feet dry. Picking our way southwards, we were kept occupied by the activity of early morning surfers, the array of sail boats and emerging sights of Whitby pier and the ancient Abbey. A rather leisurely passage was made through Whitby, soaking up the town atmosphere as we went. This included a viewing at close quarters of the excellent replica of Captain Cook's Endeavour, on its last day in Whitby. We were fortunate to have Keith with us to share some of his local knowledge, and much better value than local tour guides! Whilst some headed directly to our agreed rendez-vous at the Abbey, others took time to get more of the town's flavour; literally, in the case of Lynne and Nigel, who went on a sweet-tasting tour, and Tarn, who disappeared into a coffee shop! Reformed as a group, we progressed on the south side of the Esk, before crossing back over the river and taking a cross-country route to the village of Ruswarp. With more features of interest such as the old railway viaduct, mill and weir there was plenty to take in. For those who preferred more natural beauty there were a family of young swans and, especially for the ladies, around thirty well-muscled triathletes! We progressed across fields to Aislaby, which presented a fine panorama of the sea and surrounding moors and allowed lunch to be taken en route. Back on track and with high temperatures and consuming thirst, the leader took a vote on who wanted a 'quick half' in the pub. No one was interested! Now that surely is a first in the annals of SOC history. A cut through the Skelder Plantation brought us to Mulgrave Woods where the final two miles were completed. Half the group made a detour to take in the remnants of the original Mulgrave Castle. The rest of us who by now really were desperate for the pub, and man enough to admit it, made straight for the aforementioned. And so ultimately we finished off the day in true British, and SOC, tradition in a local beer garden, mulling over the day in fine company. Mike Palmer |