Day 15: Grosmont to Robin Hood's Bay

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We walked twenty-five km today. There was a steep incline early on, and a steady climb throughout the morning period, but it was glorious (to use a common Wainwright adjective) walking thereafter. We have been very lucky with the weather. Even in the Lakes District, notorious for rain and mists, we had mostly fine weather. 

Wild cotton plants growing on the moors. Pastures in the background.

Wild cotton plants growing on the moors. Pastures in the background.

Falling Floss Waterfall

Falling Floss Waterfall

We saw ancient burial mounds, another moorland, the hamlet of Littlebeck, and the Falling Floss waterfall. There were many locals out and about today and it was strange to see so many people (and dogs) roaming in the small wooded section of national park near the falls.

We finally came across the magnificent coastline that leads to Robin Hood's Bay. The Bay (as it's known by the locals) was used by smugglers in years gone by, hence the name. 

Robin Hood's Bay

Robin Hood's Bay

John Keats wrote a poem called ‘Robin Hood,' and the final stanza is reproduced below.

So it is: yet let us sing,
Honour to the old bow-string!
Honour to the bugle-horn!
Honour to the woods unshorn!
Honour to the Lincoln green!
Honour to the archer keen!
Honour to tight little John,
And the horse he rode upon!
Honour to bold Robin Hood,
Sleeping in the underwood!
Honour to maid Marian,
And to all the Sherwood-clan!
Though their days have hurried by
Let us two a burden try. 

And here are a few (less literary) quotes from our party.. 

  • The Butterscotch Keeper to Coconut Water (as he pushed her up a steep incline): "Don't lean backwards or we'll both fall to our deaths."
  • The Water Tank to Tea Bag: "Stop typing in the middle of the night!"
  • Sherbet Lemon to Acid Drop: "Quit fussing. I've already told you I don't need medical attention."

Here is a map of our walk, and a photo of  the view (at sunset) from the room we are staying in this evening - having a view of the North Sea is a perfect finish to our adventure. Tomorrow I will post about some practical things. Like what socks and vaseline have in common, tips for pole craft, and how much water to take on a hike. I'll also give you some insights into the places we have stayed at.

Robin Hood's Bay at Sunset

Robin Hood's Bay at Sunset