Day 19 - Rest day in Grosmont

Over the past few days we have seen much evidence of England's rail history; a much needed mode of transportation for the different products of the mining industry in a bygone era.  Over time modern technology overtook the magnificent steam trains and they were forced to become historical relics. At Grosmont, an enthusiastic band of volunteers, who make up the North York Moors Railway Society, have succeeded in reviving these superb locomotives.  What a delight to hear the whistle and then see the head of steam appear around the corner as a huge black steam train pulls into Grosmont Station.

Our big adventure today was taking a ride on one of these trains to Whitby.  A smiling group of three volunteers, all retirees who love trains. Tom, Brian and Brian, were very keen to call the day "Independence Day" as this is the day Britain votes on whether to stay or leave the EU.  We were in no doubt what they thought!          

       

Tom, Brian and Brian.  

Brian and Tom sold us the tickets and generously gave us the Seniors' discount (even though we   aren't seniors...) and then suggested that we ride in First Class.  Throughout the trip our friendly volunteers were on hand to explain some local history and to make suggestions about photo opportunities.  Tom told Graham and myself to go to the back of the carriage, open the window and hang out as far as we could. According to Tom, this is the only way to get a great shot of the viaduct from the train as we round the bend.
I noticed a sign above the said window that read, "Danger, do not open window or hang any part of your body out of the train"!

.A view of our train from the back as we rounded the bend

The viaduct as we were approaching Whitby 

In case of fire or accident on the train,  select a bucket.  Perhaps you grab one as you are hanging out the window.

Seniors travelling first class

on the steam train to Whitby

Whitby is a bustling port  town on the coast. Supposed to be famous for its fish and chips, there are shops all along the foreshore.  So of course, what else would we eat for lunch?

I have to say probably the worst fish and chips I have ever eaten! Maybe we just chose the wrong shop to buy them from ...

We cruised the harbour on this little beauty.

We had a great day checking out the many sights of Whitby, from the water and many vantage points around town.  

 Whitby from the bay

Notice the 'leave'  flag on the mast.

The open-topped double decker tourist bus was memorable,  I got bombed by a seagull while  we waited under the branches of the trees for the traffic jam to clear!  The tourist guide didn't seem to know anything interesting about Whitby.  Every question we asked was met with a blank look and a shrug of her shoulders.

We saw some interesting signs while wandering around.

Not sure who won this one... 

 We walked the 199 steps up to the Abbey ruins

The Parish Church 

The ruins!

  

  

The Visitors' Centre 

 Great views of the  Abbey ruins can be seen from the train as you arrive into Whitby and  from the water as you cruise the Harbour.  It can be seen from miles away because of its prominent position on the headland.

The view of the town from the Abbey

 

Some of the paparazzi capturing shots of famous tourists...

The Endeavour, the ship Captain Cook sailed to Australia in,  was built in Whitby.  This  small replica  takes tourists for a trip around the harbour.  Captain Cook is well celebrated in Whitby with a museum and a statute

We returned to Grosmont on the train, but unfortunately Tom wasn't there to offer us the First Class cabin but we still enjoyed the trip, soot and all.    

 We have thoroughly enjoyed our rest days along the Coast to Coast journey.  Each one has been needed, timely and well chosen.  We have been able to relax and enjoy a special part of England at each town and our accommodation at these stops have been particularly welcoming.  Becky,  at 'The Gallery',  cared for us beautifully with a delicious breakfast both morning. Her bright and cheerful manner was a delight.   We now feel ready to tackle the last day!