In a span of eight days, I visited the following: A place that celebrates a playwright that contributed to the English language and literature; I walked on the streets of a haunted but actually quite charming city; and I also visited a city that made a huge contribution to the Industrial Revolution. I saw valleys and mountains that made me feel like I’m in the world of Stardust or Lord of the Rings. Oh, and let's not forget that I slept inside a really old manor! And on the 8th day, I went to the beachside — at North Yorkshire!
We stayed at the YHA Boggle Hole; a few minutes walk from Robin Hood’s Bay, a small fishing village. I honestly had my doubts about Boggle Hole because it’s like in the middle of nowhere, but by the time I was at the reception I just knew it’s my favorite hostel of all. This youth hostel has a quirky sea and pirate theme going on! They even have a mermaid, Margarita, and a pirate mascot. More photos of the hostel on my blog review (soon!).
Peta Saunders and Lucy Plummer. Lucy was my company throughout my trip since Day Four. :)
We were warmly welcomed by Peta, the manager, and gave us a tour of the hostel. She later took us to the beach, where you can hunt for fossils of ancient sea creatures, and walked towards Robin Hood’s Bay.
Peta is very lovely, by the way. She’s accommodating, entertaining and really knows her stuff. On our way to the village, I’ve asked a lot of questions about the sea plants on the beach, the village’s history, and so on. And even if I didn’t asked, she would share what she know anyway. She's full of enthusiasm!
Oh, and in case you’re wondering, why is the village named Robin Hood’s Bay? To be honest, nobody really knows. No one knew if Robin Hood even went to the area! The town, however, has a history of smuggling a lot of goods during the 18th century (which probably explains the pirate theme of the hostel, arr!).
On our way back, somebody told us that there’s a live webcam feed where anyone who visits a certain website can see us. I immediately Googled the website on my phone and took a screenshot:
We were the people near the yellow van and boat. :)
Next stop was Whitby, a seaside town that is 20 minutes away. Whitby is the home of the famous Whitby Abbey, a ruined Benedictine abbey that’s still pretty much intact. The abbey is quite fantastic but if you stay at the YHA Whitby, you have a great view of both the abbey and the town without any extra cost. Of course, it would be better if you really go up close to the abbey (support the country's tourism!).
This town is also where Captain James Cook spent his apprenticeship and later contributed to the European discovery of Australia. Fun fact: I studied at James Cook University!
The town is just so lovely. There were a lot of seagulls, sweets shop, and fish & chips! These British people are not only the nicest people I’ve met but they also have a sweet tooth! Peta asked if I ever tasted candy floss, and of course, I said no. Only to find out that a candy floss is cotton candy! Pretty name, candy floss.
We also went to play the arcade and see this attraction called the Dracula Experience, which gave everyone a good laugh and scream. Ok, it wasn’t really THAT scary but Lucy advises that the London Dungeon is not for me! No photo because it was too dark inside the attraction AND I am too scared to even take photos.
ALSO, A SEAGULL POOPED ON ME. LIKE OMG. It was the first time to be ever pooped on. :| Peta said that bird poop is considered good luck… but I DIDN’T WIN ANY PRIZES AT THE ARCADE! Well, except for a bunch of two pence so I can continue playing, LOL!
I really don't want this day to end because it was my 'last' day in the countryside but we had to, and we did it beautifully. YHA Whitby invited us to join them for a fresh and scrumptious meal of fish & chips! It was really yummy, though I find the fish serving too large for me (it reminds me of turon but bigger and fatter). They even served wine and reserved a table for me. Celia, YHA Whitby's manager, and her staff are so thoughtful. :)
