Whitby

[alanjns]

I shall be in Whitby at the end of November and will have one day to myself for some birding.

Does anyone have any suggestions for a non driver willing to bear the cold of the North York Moors?!!

[Darryl]

I love Whitby, especially out of season.

It depends on the weather, if it's fine ie. no low cloud, you could try this route http://northyorks.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=7140&p=0

If it's misty up there you could try the park around Whitby museum (St Hilda's Terrace) then on to Sandsend past the golf course and return (tide permitting) along the beach or catch the bus.

[astafjevs]

I've done that exact walk, last December, I even got a lifer on it (tree sparrow!)

Its a good interesting walk, we combined it with a visit to the abbey, although it wasn't massively productive for birds.

Whitby harbour was over run by turnstones when we were there

[alanjns]

Thanks for thay Darryl, I shall investigate further...watch this space!!!

[ijwilki]

Alan, whilst you are in Whitby you must go to the Magpie Cafe on the harbour side - the best fish and chips you'll ever taste - fresh Whitby cod or haddock in a wonderful crispy batter.

Sandsend is just a couple of miles from Whitby to the north and is on a regular bus route from Whitby town centre. See below:

Sandsend Quarry
Owned by the Marquis of Normanby this former alum quarry to the north of Sandsend makes for a good location to watch seabirds and also waders at low tide. The small ponds, wet patches and scrub woods among the quarry wasteland give a whole host of wildlife a wonderful habitat.
Sandsend Quarry is accessible via the Arriva bus services, for information on times and destinations call 08706 082608.

For more information a trail guide can be purchased from National Park centres and Tourist Information points.

Grid Ref: NZ 857137


The walk over the cliffs to Saltwick is a walk I've done many times (Whitby was a favourite haunt of mine as a youngster) , and even further to Robin Hood's Bay - fantastic walk and wonderful scenery - plenty of sea birds.

Don't know if you're into railways but the North York Moors Railway from Whitby to Pickering is a smashing trip - passes through Grosmont, Goathland (known as Aidensfield on Heartbeat), Levisham - stunning countryside.

[alanjns]

Thanks Ian, I will definitely check out that cafe - have a feeling I will need sustenance at that time of year!!!

I like the sound of the sandsend quarry - I shall investigate!

My friends are getting married at the Ravens Hall Hotel, quite close to Robin Hoods Bay!