Sandsend may be just 3 miles north of Whitby but a slower pace of life makes it seem a world away; a haven of peace on the coastal edge of the North York Moors, it’s the perfect choice for a battery-recharging break. It’s a 7-mile drive to the seaside village of Staithes, an equal distance to the National Park Centre at Danby and less than 20 miles to the broad cobbled streets of Guisborough, a historic market town at the foot of the Cleveland Hills. But holidays don’t have to be all about dashing around, and while walkers come here to explore the nearby woodlands and industrial remains, Sandsend is one of those places where you can spend many happy hours doing not very much at all. Although known as something of a fine food hub, it’s the beach that remains Sandsend’s biggest attraction. Look across the sands to Whitby’s iconic headlands – a pleasant walk away when the tide is out – paddle in the shallows, explore the rockpools or try your hand at fossil-hunting; everything you need for a traditional family holiday is within easy reach of this charming cottage, located just off the seafront.
You’ll feel at home the moment you step into the entrance hallway, where there’s plenty of storage space for coats and beach gear, plus shelves full of books for you to enjoy. Exposed beams may hint at the cottage’s history, but the modern Shaker-style kitchen/diner has everything you need for an enjoyable stay, including a wine fridge, double oven with ceramic hob, dishwasher and washer/dryer. A large dining table with stylish leather chairs makes for memorable mealtimes together while a cabinet close by offers a choice of board games for those with an appetite for competition. Retire to the lounge and you’ll find a selection of sofas and seating, plus a TV and DVD player for further entertainment. A stone fireplace with flame-effect gas fire is a central feature here, but you’ll want to check out the view from the windows – look across your courtyard garden for some fantastic views of the sea! Beamed ceilings continue to add character on the first floor, where there are three bedrooms – one with a king-size bed, one with a double and one with twins – plus a bathroom and separate shower room, each of which is light, bright and tiled in contemporary black-and-white.
To the front, the patio has a decked area plus table, chairs, benches and parasol… south-facing and with sea views, it’s the perfect spot for food, drinks and soul-soothing fresh air at any time of the day.