It is safe to say that Sandsend is fast becoming one of the hippest spots on the Yorkshire coast. This small fishing village north of Whitby is a favourite of foodies who love the diverse selection of eateries, and of people looking for a quieter, more peaceful day at the seaside than you might get on a busy summer’s day in Scarborough or Whitby.
If you decide to take the trip and fancy a walk while you are there, then we have the perfect one for you. The Sandsend to Mulgrave Woods and Old Mulgrave Castle circular walk takes you on a journey from the beach to tranquil woodland and a fascinating historic ruin.
A Scenic Woodland Walk Through to Medieval Ruins
It is an easy 4-mile walk and doesn’t involve anything too strenuous, just a few gentle inclines and woodland paths. We would recommend some sturdy walking shoes. It should take you around 2 hours to complete.
From Sandsend, head towards East Row. Here you will start to leave the village and head more inland. You will walk beside East Row Beck and go towards Mulgrave Woods.
Mulgrave Woods are part of a vast estate. However, the route is very easy to follow. You will wind your way through the woods via footpaths and crossing streams running through the estate. The woods are open to the public from dawn till dusk on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The highlight of the walk is definitely the Old Mulgrave Castle. When you get there, you’ll enjoy great views of East Row Beck and Sandsend Beck. The castle itself is a significant part of history. It was built in the 13th century by Robert de Turnham to serve as a defensive residence. However, during the English Civil War, the castle was attacked and partly demolished in 1647. Today, it is both a Scheduled Monument and a Grade-1 listed building, surrounded by spectacular Yorkshire countryside.
Ghosts and Spooky Tales Galore!
If you have the kids with you and they love scary stories, well, there is no shortage of ghosts in the woods. Keep your eyes peeled for PadPad, a part panther, part goat, and part human said to live under the castle ruins. You also might meet Jeanie, an ill-tempered fairy who lives deep in the woods. She craves the peace of the woodland, and so if you disturb her, she will curse you. You have been warned!
Once you’ve had a look around, taken some photos, had a picnic, and hopefully not been chased away by ghosts, it is time to head back. To complete the route, just follow the path back towards Sandsend, through the woodland, and back to the village.
Feeling Peckish After the Walk? Sandsend is the Place to be!
We are sure that once you arrive back at the village, you will be famished! As mentioned previously, it is a real foodie heaven, and you will be spoilt for choice. Two of our personal favourites are Mary’s Sandwich Shop, which serves handcrafted sandwiches and LA-style smashburgers, and Fish Cottage, which offers fish tacos and fish and chips.
There is also The Hart Inn Pub, which is a great starting and finishing point for the walk. Located on the seafront, they serve up classic pub grub like fish and chips and Sunday roasts and have fine ales from Black Sheep Brewery. For more information about Sandsend, check out our recent trip on YouTube.
So, put on your walking boots, pack a picnic, and spend a summer’s day walking in this beautiful Yorkshire coast village.
Read More: The Stunning Yorkshire Coast Walk With Breathtaking Sea Views
