Take the train to
the end of the line and you’ll pass through some of the UK’s most spectacular scenery
before reaching Bram Stoker’s Whitby. As well as being the inspiration for
Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula,
Whitby is also famous for its fish ‘n’ chips.
If the number of
available restaurants is anything to go by, it’s no surprise! Personally, I’d
aim straight for The Magpie Cafe. Just don't forget to book!
Having been warned
about its popularity, we felt like VIPs as we swanned past the vast queue of
waiting diners. The 5-star treatment continued inside, as The Magpie’s friendly
staff encouraged us to enjoy a leisurely lunch, in spite of the masses waiting
to get in. We were treated to a delicious meal of the freshest fish with the
lightest batter, which definitely lived up to its magnificent reputation.
On the way back
to Cropton, we dropped into The Wheatsheaf Inn in Egton where every Halloween,
the landlord changes its name to The Slaughtered Lamb in a fun homage to An American Werewolf in London.
Back at the
cabin site, our group enjoyed breaking away from the daily grind. We indulged
in some great home-cooked food, a glass or three of wine and made regular use
of the hot tub on the veranda.
As a group of
adults and mindful of our fellow cabin dwellers, one might worry about how the
noise might carry in the forest, especially on a fully booked site during half
term. But there was no cause for concern. Although not among the trees like
many of the Forest Holidays locations, the cabins at Cropton are so well-spaced, we
weren't at all disturbed by anyone else.