Make most of our coast

May 25 2008 by Alan Ross, Magic 1170

A “FACTOID” came my way last week, which is that huge numbers of us only ever travel a matter of mere miles from our birthplaces during our entire lifetime.

Although those of us who do travel further are becoming more and more adventurous, a large proportion of us have never been to London, or abroad.

For some people, 20 miles is a long way away. So here’s a thought about this Bank Holiday weekend.

Save money, reduce your carbon footprint and support our local tourist attractions. In particular, our wonderful coastline.

The worldwide film and television industry have discovered the North’s coasts, for example, Atonement, filmed in Redcar, or Robinson Crusoe, in Whitby, so now it’s not just us who appreciate our fabulous coastline.

I’ve recently visited two places that I’ve been meaning to set foot in for almost 10 years, and I can’t think of more wonderful spots to visit than Staithes, between Saltburn and Whitby, or Lindisfarne, in Northumberland.

Of course, it helps if you have friends visiting. Very often this is the impetus for me to get off my sofa and get into the fresh air.

Staithes came as a revelation, having never previously walked down the steep path to the village. Beautiful, quaint, idyllic, you run out of adjectives . . . or at least I did!

Lindisfarne is so peaceful and a real piece of history. Just allow yourself a lot of time and make sure you time your arrival and departure on the causeway so you don’t get stuck.

I’m sure you'll have your own favourite places — you might like to email me some — but, whatever you’re doing, have a relaxing time if you can.