Four days exploring the east side of the North York Moors and it’s safe to say I have finally tired out a Viszla. With many inland walks, beaches to sprint along or coastal hikes it is definitely a good destination for a dog-friendly trip away.
Whilst doing my research there was no doubt Sully would be welcome but I have to say I think it’s a place better experienced with a dog by your side. There was never any difficulty find a breakfast, lunch or dinner spot that was dog friendly.
When solo traveling with a dog there can be times when you are grateful for a helpful, dog-friendly hand (or paw), and Whitby definitely provided. Two moments from this trip come to mind. First, had arrived at a bar, picked table, tidied Sully to said table and laid down his blanket, then headed to the very close by bar. As I stood waiting, I notice an older man walk towards my table, which by the way, was small round and only big enough for max 3. He proceeded to flick the blanket away with his stick and sit down. Now I was clearly to surprised and embarrassed to say anything but thankfully he decided he needed the men’s room. With a brief window of time to untie the dog, grab my things and move tables to pretend nothing had happened I was very grateful for the lady who found it all rather amusing, as did I really, as she helped swiftly shifts all my things. I’m fairly confident the man was completely clueless.
The second moment is quicker to tell. Sully did a massive dump in the middle of the car park whilst I had coffee in one hand, bag and tickets in another. Whilst trying not to get hit by a car a lovely lady offered to hold my excitable dog whilst I picked up his poo, very helpful indeed!
Anyway, back to advise for planning you own trip. Here's some places I would recommend.
Walks and beaches
1. Sutton bank walk – nice easy loop route, great views.
2. Mallyan Spout and Goathland circular – 9.5km, Waterfall, varied countryside, off lead and on lead bits, walk through “heartbeat” country
3. Esk Valley walk from Grosmont to Whitby – 12km, beautiful walk, quiet, easy to follow with salmon signs. Get the train out and walk back.
4. Saltburn beach – Amazing, large beach which is mostly dog restriction free. Area by pier has restriction in Summer but that doesn’t matter because there is so much beach further down. Don’t miss this is your pup likes a sand run.
5. Staithes – very cute little village. You have to park at the top and walk down but pretty cove, nice beach (no restrictions) and couple of dog friendly pubs.
6. Robin hoods bay and coastal walk to Whitby – beautiful beach, no restrictions but make sure you check the tide because the beach doesn’t exist when it’s high tide. You can also join the Cleveland way up the coast towards Whitby.
Activities
As well as all the above which I think would be Sully’s favourite we also found a boat and train ride which happily welcomed him aboard, even gave him his own ticket.
1. Black Pearl trip from Whitby – 20min boat trip out to see to view Whitby harbour. Very friendly and played shanties the whole time.
2. Steam train – Whitby to Pickering. Can do day trip and hope on or off. Narrow aisle so spent a lot of the time moving Sully’s bottom.
3. 199 steps and Whitby Abbey – ease walk up from Whitby post brunch. Pretty abbey with great views over the bay. Dogs welcome on short leads.
Eating and Drinking
1. Arch and Abbey bar – where above incident with the man happened. But all other staff and customers were very friendly with dog treats available at the bar.
2. Beer O’clock micropub– Super dog friendly, quite a few in there when we went. Good choice of beers
3. Rusty Sheers – tucked away on a back street but quirky little place, great menu and Sully got lots of attention from the staff. Would recommend!
4. Mr Coopers Coffee House – nice coffee, good brunch options and trendy feel inside with a little shop area inside.
5. Sanders yard – Loved it here. Again, gave Sully loads of attention plus a nice blanket to sit on after his run in the sea. Yummy food.
6. Duke of York Whitby – nice pub food. Would recommend the lamb shanks. Played the tennis and football plus had a pub quiz on the Sunday. Also loads of free dog treats.
There is so much more to discover in and around Whitby and the coast and I know I will go back. I hope these little tips and recommendations encourage you to take a weekend break there with your best friend.
Wishing you all the fun and adventures
Sully and the Pet Obsessor xx
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