Small but perfectly formed, this cottage is ideal for two people and has heaps of charm. It is hidden down a quiet lane off Church Street, close to Whitby’s bustling harbour and the start of the 199-step climb to the gothic ruined abbey, said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. Tate Hill Beach is steps away, and the larger West Cliff beach just half a mile. Exploring the town is always rewarding: from cobbled streets to quirky cafes and boutique shops (look out for Whitby jet jewellery) there is something to see on every corner, while festivals and fairs take place throughout the year. As a special treat, you can climb aboard a heritage train and be whisked 24 miles through the North York Moors to the market town of Pickering with its 1930s-themed station. The Yorkshire coast is lined with picturesque fishing villages and quaint market towns, with Robin Hood’s Bay, for example, just 6 miles from Whitby, Staithes 11 miles and Ravenscar 14 miles.
All on one level, this atmospheric property has an open-plan lounge with a large sofa and ornamental fireplace, plus a drop-leaf dining table and folding chairs. At one end of the room, the space-saving kitchen in a cupboard means you can whip up a quick meal whenever you wish. In addition to the hob and combination microwave/oven, it also provides a built-in fridge, cupboards, shelves and a hanging rail for storage, and a basin for washing up. The double bedroom has a pretty metal bed, chest of drawers and clothes hanging rail, and there is also a bathroom with a large shower cubicle.