North Yorkshire

The town has a rich history and is home to a number of charities

The charming town of Selby in North Yorkshire, known for its historic market and the grand Selby Abbey, has become a haven for charity shops.

With six on the high street alone, locals and visitors have even created a trail to explore them all. Forward thinking businesses and those who live in the town have turned what many other places fear into the saviour of their town centre.

Having a history that dates back to Roman and Viking eras, the small town has a population of around 17,000 who enjoy its rich heritage and culture. There are plenty of scenic routes thatnks to its location on the River Ouse and surrounding Yorkshire countryside.

However, the volunteer-led outlets in the town have been grappling with unsuitable donations, leading to waste and additional costs. To tackle this issue, local charity Up for Yorkshire launched The Shop for the Future project as part of its Zero Shelby initiative, reports the Express.

This project aims to help the shops manage unsuitable donations sustainably, while also celebrating their community contributions and raising awareness about their work. It kicked off with the creation of a Trail Map, laying out the constellation of charity shops across the North Yorkshire town for an easy crawl.

The town’s High Street charity shops include Martin House, which provides free family-led hospice care for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses. There’s also an RSPCA store, which is a self-funded and separately registered charity to the national RSPCA that supports the York Animal Home and local animals in need.

There’s also The Big Store – the charity shop of The Big Communitea, which supports mental health and wellbeing in the town through drop-ins, therapy, and practical help. Visitors can also find branches of St Leonard’s Hospice, Scope and the British Heart Foundation.

As part of the Zero Shelby initiative, a Sustainable Fashion show is scheduled to take place in Selby Abbey on November 12. Matt Fisher, community development lead for Up for Yorkshire, told BBC News that they view the town’s second-hand shops as a “strong starting point for change and an exciting opportunity to create a sustainable and vibrant high street to be enjoyed by everyone.”

In addition to these, there are various gift shops, homeware stores, vintage and antique outlets available. For bookworms, The Book Circle, an independent bookshop on Finkle Street, is a must-visit.

And if you fancy a bite to eat, local favourite Mister C fish and chips shop is renowned as one of the best in the UK.

Among the other charity shops elsewhere in the town are the well-known branches of Bernardo’s, Cancer Research UK and Yorkshire Cancer Research. But there are also locally-based stores working hard for good causes.

Mama Na Mtoto works to save the lives of mothers and babies in the UK and Kenya, while Selby Hands of Hope provides help to alleviate financial hardship in Selby. Selby Community Furniture Store collects furniture for free and upcycles and refurbishes it before selling it on, and Shelby Scrap CIC provides low-cost source materials for local groups and people.

The spa town beat the likes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Anglesey to the top spot of best staycations in the UK, and it’s not hard to see why.

If you’re keen to get away this autumn but don’t want to venture too far, there are so many beautiful spots in the UK to choose from – with one in particular being very worth a visit.

Harrogate, a picturesque town in North Yorkshire, was crowned the best staycation spot in the UK. Just a two-hour drive from Greater Manchester, Harrogate beat out competition from Stratford-upon-Avon and Anglesey to claim the top spot.

Staycations have surged in popularity as Brits discover the wealth of beauty spots on their doorstep. With this in mind, AA experts analysed the top staycation destinations that are perfect for a road trip.

They considered factors such as accommodation options, local happiness ratings, availability of car parking spaces, petrol stations, and EV chargers to compile the “ultimate top 10 locations for the perfect staycation”.

The spa town of Harrogate came out on top, boasting the highest ‘happiness rating’, 7.8 out of 10, and the most activities (62), reports the Express.

The town is famed for its stunning architecture, the renowned Betty’s Cafe and Tea Rooms, RHS Harlow Carr gardens and much more. Surrounded by breathtaking countryside, there’s plenty to explore nearby, including the Brimham Rocks beauty spot. This year, it was also named as the third poshest town in the UK by The Telegraph.

Harrogate gained popularity in the 19th century as a health resort thanks to its mineral-rich spring waters.

Today, Harrogate seamlessly blends historic charm with modern touches, making it a favourite destination for visitors and residents alike.

Valley Gardens is a must-see in the town, boasting a beautiful park filled with a variety of flowers, walking paths, and remnants of the town’s renowned spa waters.

Another highlight is the Royal Pump Room Museum, which provides a glimpse into Harrogate’s spa history, showcasing the town’s evolution as a health resort.

Not to be overlooked, Stratford-upon-Avon came in second place with a happiness rating of 7.6, over 6,000 parking spaces, and more than 60 attractions.

Famed as Shakespeare’s birthplace, it offers pretty walks and historical sites such as the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Cornwall’s Newquay clinched third place, offering 326 AA-approved accommodations, over 3,500 parking spots, and a happiness rating of 7.5.

A MAJOR supermarket with 340 branches is set to close a site tomorrow.

The supermarket specialises in frozen food but also stocks a wide-range of well known brands such as Muller, Birds Eye and McCain.

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Heron Foods was first established in 1978 after operating as a local butcher in Hull under the name ‘Grindells Butchers.’

After Anthony Grindell sold the business to his sister and her family, the name was changed and the chain started to grow.

The company now runs 343 locations across the UK, however it will suffer a huge blow.

It has now been announced that the Scunthorpe store is set to close its doors for the final time.

In the Heron Foods Scunthorpe Facebook group, one of the admins wrote to the chain’s loyal customer base to announce the news.

The post read: “Dear Valued Customers, we want to thank you for your continued support and loyalty to our Heron Foods store in Scunthorpe.

“It’s been a pleasure serving the local community, and we’re incredibly grateful for the relationships we’ve built over the years.

“We’re writing to let you know that our Scunthorpe store, located at Jubilee Way in the Parishes Shopping Centre, will be closing down.

“This decision was not made lightly, and we understand it may come as disappointing news to many of you.”

It was also revealed that the shop will close its doors for the final time before the weekend has even finished.

The post continued: “Our final day of trading will be the 27th September, and until then, we’ll continue to offer great value and service.

“We encourage you to visit us before we close to take advantage of our remaining stock and special offers.”

The account added: “While this location is closing, we remain committed to serving our customers across the UK. You can continue to shop with us at nearby Heron Foods stores.

“Thank you again for being part of our journey in Scunthorpe. We’ll miss you!”

Customers flooded the comments section of the post to express their immense disappointment at the decision.

One user wrote: “Shame you always have good bargains, going to miss you.”

A second stated: “Shame it’s shutting down always go in there every week.”

“Not good for the town yet again another good shop to close,” claimed a third concerned resident.

While this location is closing, we remain committed to serving our customers across the UK.

Shop adminFacebook

While a fourth commented: “It’s an absolute shame for the wonderfully helpful staff.”

And a fifth added: “Feel sorry for all the people that use the shop in the town that get their good bargains etc.”

However, the chain is launching a new site in Byker, Newcastle which is set to open its doors to customers on October 16th.

The company is also investing in a refurbishment in its Fulwell shop in Sunderland that is due to reopen at the start of October.

In August 2017, B&M purchased the chain in a reported £152million acquisition.

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It is often named as one of the prettiest seaside towns in the UK and is a popular tourist spot – but there’s one major reason why I won’t be returning with my family

Before I begin, I must clarify that I don’t usually criticise seaside towns. Coming from New Brighton in Merseyside, I’m well aware of the challenges faced by Northern coastal towns.

However, during our family’s UK staycation last summer, we embarked on a mini tour of Yorkshire and, for the most part, thoroughly enjoyed it. But there was one location that I believe is overrated – Robin Hood’s Bay.

It consistently ranks as one of the top seaside towns to visit and features prominently in lists of the most picturesque coastal towns.

Granted, the old fishing village is charming, but having visited once, I doubt I’ll return as a tourist, and here’s why.

The beach. Living right next to a stunning golden sand beach has perhaps spoiled me, making our trip to Robin Hood’s Bay somewhat underwhelming, reports the Express.

While we adored the journey down the town’s winding streets, brimming with boutique shops, ice cream parlours and quaint cafes, the beach itself fell short of my expectations.

The sand seemed drab and muddy, flies were abundant, and there was an unpleasant sewage odour in the air on the day of our visit.

However, it is dog-friendly if you wish to bring your furry friend along.

After settling in for the morning, my husband and eldest son ventured off to explore the nearby rock pools, which they found intriguing but not unique.

The bay wasn’t overly crowded when we visited, though there’s been chatter about the surge in tourists to Robin Hood’s Bay in recent years. This influx has reportedly become a strain and is driving up property prices.

After a day at the beach, you’re faced with the daunting climb back uphill to the car park – though we did pause for fish and chips on our way, which was a treat.

Robin Hood’s Bay town is charming, picture-perfect in spots, with friendly and welcoming locals. However, for families, I believe there are superior beaches elsewhere.

That being said, I can envision a couple relishing a romantic staycation here, with plenty of dining options after strolling hand-in-hand through the cobblestone streets.

While I likely won’t be returning, I reckon some might adore exploring this Instagram-worthy town as an ideal way to spend an afternoon.

Many of the cottages fall within the conservation area, meaning they’ve retained their original charm.

There’s also a museum where you can delve into the town’s history, and regular ‘ghost walks’ are on offer.

For more information on activities, parking and tide times, click here.

Whitby in North Yorkshire has been named one of the UK’s best seaside entertainment spots, and it’s easy to see why with its sandy beaches, historic landmarks and top-rated restaurants

Recognised as one of the UK’s top seaside amusement locations, this charming coastal town has long been a hit with those yearning for a traditional beach holiday. Nestled at the mouth of the River Esk, Whitby in North Yorkshire is steeped in a rich history rooted in maritime, mineral and tourism trades.

Its appeal as a tourist hotspot is further amplified by its close proximity to the North York Moors national park and the heritage coastline, not to mention its eerie link to the horror novel Dracula. The town’s most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the ruined abbey perched on the East Cliff.

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Other notable features include the swing bridge spanning the river and the harbour, safeguarded by the grade II listed East and West piers.

Whitby’s nautical history is honoured through statues of explorer Captain Cook and whaler and scientist William Scoresby, as well as the whalebone arch that graces the West Cliff, reports the Express.

The town also boasts a robust literary tradition, having been featured in numerous works, television programmes and films, most notably Bram Stoker’s renowned novel, according to Yorkshire Live. If Whitby doesn’t tickle your fancy, you might consider this stunning town on the Welsh coast.

A recent survey ranked Whitby seventh on the list of the UK’s top holiday entertainment destinations.

The survey considers factors such as the number of pubs, restaurants, museums, parks, zoos and aquariums, water and amusement parks, arcades, beach review scores, hotel prices, Google searches, average temperature, average rainfall and local train stations.

Whitby boasts a variety of highly-rated dining establishments, ranging from cosy coffee shops to gastropubs and sea-view restaurants. There are three five-star rated eateries on TripAdvisor, ideal for those seeking a delicious meal.

First up is Lush Coffee on Silver Street, which earned the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award for 2023.

Promising a ‘warm welcome’, this coffee shop offers freshly brewed coffee, quintessential Yorkshire Tea, hearty full English breakfasts, hot and cold sandwiches, toasties, burgers, and an array of homemade cakes and treats.

They also provide outdoor seating and welcome dogs. For those in search of a more upscale dining experience, Ditto, another five-star rated establishment and recipient of the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award for 2023, could be just the ticket.

Situated a mere stone’s throw from the beach on Skinner Street, this family-run restaurant is the perfect spot for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in a special meal while visiting the town.

Just around the corner, Beckett’s has scooped up the bronze for top-notch dining in Whitby, with an impressive 875 TripAdvisor reviews lauding its selection of hot beverages, savoury treats, breakfasts, brunches, and cakes, all acclaimed for their “excellent quality”.

Make sure your itinerary includes Cranberry Swamp – a firm favourite among breakfast aficionados, Al Taco for some Mexican flair, and The Postgate Country Inn for a slice of British tradition.

No coastal getaway is complete without sipping on a cold beer, a glass of prosecco, a sophisticated cocktail or a refreshing mocktail under the warmth of the sunshine.

Whether you’re seeking a serene spot to relax or a lively evening filled with karaoke entertainment, Whitby’s varied pubs and bars cater to all tastes.

Whitby is dotted with hotels and B&Bs suitable for every budget, some with stunning sea views that are truly unrivalled.

TripAdvisor heralds Hillcrest as the crème de la crème of hospitality, ideally situated close to the bustling town centre and easily accessible from a treasure trove of local shops, eateries, pubs, and attractions.

The establishment is not only bike-friendly, offering secure storage, but with their insider knowledge, they’re ready to point you towards exceptional spots for cycling, rambling, and watersports such as paddle-boarding and surfing. On top of that, their luxurious rooms offer ample space for families.

Other establishments in Whitby receiving high praise include The Stables, The Penny Hedge Lodge, and The Belfry.

Whitby is home to one of Yorkshire’s most pristine and secure beaches, recently honoured with a Blue Flag. This international recognition is bestowed upon well-kept beaches boasting superior water quality.

There’s an array of other beaches to explore as well. Whitby West Cliff Beach, a favoured sandy location interspersed with rocky patches, is supervised by lifeguards from May through September.

The beach extends from Upgang Beach to the River Esk’s mouth and is conveniently situated on Whitby town’s northern fringe, just a brief stroll from the town centre.

Access points to the beach are scattered along Cleveland Way, North Terrace, and North Promenade. On sun-drenched days, families gather on the sandy stretch between Upgang Beach and West Pier.

A line of colourful beach huts are available for hire, and deckchairs and windbreaks can be found near the slipway at West Pier.

From May to September, a seasonal dog ban is enforced on Whitby West Cliff Beach. However, dogs are permitted all year round on the nearby Tate Hill Beach.

Other popular beaches in Whitby include Sandsend Beach and Runswick Bay.

A BODY has been discovered amid a major hunt for a schoolgirl who fell into the water whilst out on a walk with her dad.

Emergency crews had been frantically searching for the 13-year-old who vanished under the water at Baitings Dam yesterday afternoon.

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A cordon was put in place at the reservoir in Ripponden, West Yorkshire, after cops were called at around 1.20pm on Wednesday.

Search teams worked around the clock in an attempt to find the youngster, with two RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) spotted at the site this morning.

The teenager, from Halifax, had been posing for pictures with her dad when she tragically fell into the 140ft-deep water.

It is understood she hit the water after falling roughly 30ft from the parapet of the dam.

Local resident Sue Ferris helped comfort the girl’s family, who told her that the youngster had a “bright future“.

The 80-year-old said: “She had just got into grammar school, they told me.

“She wanted to walk round the reservoir with her dad because it was half term, but the rest of the family didn’t want to go.

“It was just dad and daughter at the reservoir when she fell in. The rest of the family came after the accident.

“Dad had been taking photographs, according to a witness, and he also heard dad screaming and shouting her name after she fell in – but he did not go into the water.

“He had some kind of heart problem and was clutching his chest soon afterwards and was taken away by ambulance.

“They were very proud of her. She had a really bright future.”

Mrs Ferris, who has lived in the same house overlooking the reservoir for 20 years, slammed officials for a buoyancy aids around the water.

She added: “It is disgraceful that there are no life rings anywhere on the parapet.

“Yorkshire Water added the white metal railings on top of the stone structure some years ago now.

“But it only adds about half a foot to the barrier height and actually helps people to climb onto the wall.

“It gives them something to grip on to.

“All it is doing is helping people to stand on the wall.”

Four West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue crews were sent out to the dam on Wednesday, assisted by Littleborough crew.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service also confirmed they sent officers from their Hazardous Area Response Team.

Speaking on Wednesday, a West Yorkshire police spokesperson said: “Shortly after 1.17pm this afternoon police were called to a report a girl had fallen into water at Baitings Dam near Ripponden.

“Emergency services are currently on the scene, with searches ongoing to locate the girl.”

This little-known beauty spot with its ’emerald sea’ is well worth a visit – and it’s right on the doorstep of a popular seaside town

If you’re seeking a bit of adventure in your seaside walks this summer, one overlooked beach is a must-visit. Nestled near to the bustling town of Whitby in North Yorkshire, this lesser-known beach boasts natural beauty and even offers the chance to spot some fossils.

Just a stone’s throw from its more crowded neighbour Whitby, the hidden gem, Saltwick Bay, has plenty to explore. With towering cliffs and remnants of a sunken ship, it’s an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

This much less visited rugged bay overlooks the North Sea coast and is just a quick 10-minute drive from Whitby. However, what you’ll discover at Saltwick Bay is a unique charm, fewer crowds, and some truly stunning sights – and visitors of all ages will be captivated by its offerings.

For instance, it’s renowned for its reptile fossils, which can be spotted in the cliff face about one metre above the beach level. Don’t miss a stroll along the foreshore, where you’re most likely to stumble upon ammonites – these coiled-shelled cephalopods are truly intriguing to observe, reports the Express.

It’s important to note, however, that Saltwick Bay is a site of special scientific interest, so hammering the bedrock is strictly prohibited.

Adding to its allure, Saltwick Bay also houses a hauntingly abandoned shipwreck on its shores. The remains of the Admiral Von Tromp lie on the shore, shrouded in mystery as to what actually happened to it.

The ship was believed to have left Scarborough Harbour, aiming for Barnacle Bay in 1976, yet it tragically never made it, instead ending up stranded on the rocks at Saltwick Bay.

The striking relic only shows itself during low tide, so those keen to see the wreck should plan their visit with the tidal schedule in mind.

Beach enthusiasts haven’t held back in expressing their admiration on Tripadvisor, with a slew of five-star reviews applauding the beach’s charms.

One delighted visitor wrote: “A stunning beach, reached by a beautiful cliff top walk from Whitby. Some steep steps down but absolutely worth it. As advised by others we stayed away from the bottom of the cliffs but the bay was wonderful to explore.”

Another enthusiast praised: “A beautiful place, quiet, emerald sea, you almost think you’re on a Greek island. A steady walk from Whitby Abbey along the escarpment, approximately 30 minutes, a steep descent and wow, it’s idyllic.”