picturesque

This countryside spot is steeped in folklore about a monstrous Barghest that legends claim crushed victims – making for an atmospheric hiking spot

Nestled within an abandoned mining region, hidden away in the Wharfedale valley of the Yorkshire Dales, lies a collapsed limestone ravine, brimming with historical tales, folklore and even a potentially terrifying resident.

Unless you’re aware of its existence, the enigmatic cavern is virtually invisible from view, concealed just off the roadside, making it a genuine secret treasure for ramblers.

Troller’s Gill is a legendary location beloved by keen walkers who venture to the region hoping to witness its splendour, as it packs considerable natural beauty into a compact trail.

The difficulty level for the path is fairly moderate, largely due to a handful of sections requiring scrambling, with a total distance of 2.6 km. It’s a trek that typically takes around one hour and can therefore be combined with any other walking or exploration activities you’ve planned during your stay in the Dales.

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To access this captivating destination, you can leave your vehicle on New Road, where parking is free, before discovering this luminous green treasure.

Upon arrival, you’ll understand why it’s such a frequently discussed location and observe its rocky brook, which seems to emerge from nowhere.

Approximately a 15-minute stroll from where you’ve parked, you’ll spot a disused mine, the former operations of Gill Heads Mine, which has remained dormant since the early 1980s.

The entrance features a substantial gate with rockfall partially obstructing it, and visitors are strongly advised against entering the mine itself due to potential hazards, including potholes and collapse risks.

Legends and myths

Since its existence began, Trollers Gill has been cloaked in mystery but there’s one talethat particularly stands out from the rest. The location is thought to have been haunted by a Barghest, a massive hound with large luminous eyes.

According to ancient folklore, encountering the creature was far from fortunate but rather a harbinger of death, as those who crossed paths with the fearsome beast were frequently crushed to death or ripped apart, tales suggest.

One legend recounts the story of a man, John Lambert of Skirethorns, who bragged in a local pub about what he’d do to the enormous hound, which involved ‘giving it a good thrashing’ if he were to ever come across it. However, legend has it, he encountered the dog on his journey home, and it fatally crushed him.

John Henry Dixon from Grassington may have been the first individual to document such tales when he contributed a poem to a book published in 1827, William Hone’s Table Book.

In the ballad he describes a courageous man who ventures out to visit the Gill hoping to summon the mighty Barghest.

As he entered the gorge, he sensed the spirit of the stream warning him to turn back, but he disregarded it. He drew a protective magic circle around himself “with charms unblest”.

In his brief tale, the stream swelled and thundered, accompanied by a powerful wind, sweeping down the valley. He glimpsed the enormous shadow of the growling dog, its eyes illuminating the gorge walls.

The ferocious creature launched itself at the man and seized him as its next victim, dragging him to the valley floor, where his remains were subsequently discovered.

Various mythical creatures and supernatural entities have been reported inhabiting the ravine, which quite literally takes its name from trolls. It’s believed that Trollers’ Gill originates from ‘Troll’s Valley’, drawing from the Scandinavian tongue of those who made this area their home.

Their traditions and legends indicate that the term ‘troll’ encompasses any supernatural creatures, ranging from hulking giants to goblins, and naturally ‘trolls dwelling beneath the bridge’.

Meanwhile, the term ‘trolldom’ was understood to signify witchcraft and therefore implies the name stems from the notion of the valley being cursed, enchanted or inhabited by otherworldly beings.

The village is home to one of the country’s finest beaches, boasts a cosy pub with unrivalled views, and has a historically important site nearby – a must-visit destination in England.

Cornwall, the stunning county in South West England, truly delivers time and time again. Packed with breathtaking locations, each more beautiful than the previous, this ceremonial county boasts some of Britain’s most spectacular and impressive scenery.

Encircled by crystal-clear waters and striking views stretching endlessly into the distance, Cornwall overflows with magnificent sights. Among them is a small coastal village in West Cornwall, positioned approximately nine miles from the vibrant seaside resort of Penzance by road.

With the South West Coast Path winding through this charming seaside settlement, it’s easy to appreciate just how beautiful this spot truly is. This little Cornish village sits just two miles by car and one mile on foot from Cornwall’s iconic Land’s End.

Whilst not technically a cove in the strictest geological definition, the village of Sennen Cove has a handful of year-round inhabitants, though a significant proportion of the properties there serve as holiday rentals and seasonal residences.

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Sennen Cove serves an essential function for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) as it houses a critical lifeboat station. A modest fleet of working fishing vessels can be spotted moored in the cove, alongside recreational fishing boats, reports Cornwall Live.

Things to do in Sennen Cove

The panoramas from the headland slash observation point, Pedn-men-du, are unmatched and absolutely merit the brief walk from the heart of the coastal village.

Delightful boutiques, art galleries including the distinctive circular Roundhouse and Capstan Gallery, and an impressive array of dining and drinking establishments make Sennen Cove an essential destination to visit in Britain.

Sennen Cove features one principal village pub, Old Success Inn, which has become an absolute favourite amongst both residents and tourists.

The charming 17th-century fisherman’s inn radiates character and appeal, situated in a prime location that commands views across the golden sands of Sennen Cove Beach – another significant, perhaps the most crucial, attraction in the village.

Providing guests with expansive outdoor seating offering breathtaking vistas and a welcoming indoor area complete with a roaring fire, Old Success Inn is the essential spot when visiting Sennen Cove, with lodging also on offer for travellers.

Acclaim for the iconic pub at the centre of Sennen Cove is endless, with one Tripadvisor review stating: “A recent visit on the back of a trip nearby was excellent.

“The location, of course, cannot be beaten – even stormy weather is great to view from here – unmatched to be honest. What’s great is the service and personnel which is brilliant no matter who sees to you.

“You are charmed and looked after as soon as you walk in and that’s what we loved the most. Of course the excellent food to match also helps. You can come here any time you want (it’s ALWAYS open) and it doesn’t matter.”

The Blue Lagoon and Shantys Fish Bar (in the main village of Sennen) are obvious choices for an excellent portion of fish and chips. Sennen Cove Cafe, adjacent to the lifeboat station, is ideal for a quick snack whilst enjoying some watersports, swimming, or simply relaxing by the beach.

The historic First and Last Inn (also in mainland Sennen) is another excellent place to grab some food and a refreshing pint.

One of Cornwall’s finest beaches

Sennen Cove Beach, also popularly known as Whitesands Bay, has frequently been praised as one of Cornwall’s most stunning and attractive beaches, thanks to its mile-long white sands and spectacular views.

A premier surfing location for locals and visitors alike, Sennen Cove Beach is widely recognised as a surfing paradise celebrated for its near-perfect surf conditions.

The surfing schools and centres are ideal for lessons and surf equipment can be rented independently at the beach, near the café and the car park.

Sennen Cove Beach is also renowned for once being the professional territory of Britain’s first qualified lifeguard dog, Bilbo.

The 14-stone Newfoundland would regularly be spotted patrolling the beach’s immaculate sands in his red and yellow jacket, often at the back of a lifeguard’s quad bike.

Bilbo was trained by his owner, head RNLI lifeguard Steve Jamieson, and went on to become an active lifesaver as well as the face of beach safety on Sennen Cove Beach. He passed away in 2015, at the age of 12.

Tourists are consistently impressed by how pristine and well-kept this beach remains, even during peak times, with one reviewer commenting on Tripadvisor: “This is a truly lovely beach, spotlessly clean with excellent safety standards.

“Even though it was extremely busy as it was a lovely hot Cornwall day there was enough room for everyone. A lovely wide, family friendly beach where after swimming all day you could get a fantastic hand made pizza from a pizza truck. A wonderful experience to remember from a family holiday.”

The spectacular ‘castle on the cliff’

Located just half a mile from Sennen Cove on foot, Maen Cliff Castle is an ancient Iron Age hill fort perched on Mayon Cliff, positioned between Land’s End and Sennen Cove.

It’s an essential stop for anyone exploring the region, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a fascinating heritage that will whisk you centuries into the past.

Only earthworks and walls remain of the historic structure, alongside two standing gate stones which indicate the entrance to the site. Tracing its origins to approximately 500 BC, it stands as one of Cornwall’s earliest datable Cliff Castles, enriching its already compelling story.

Being one of just two fortified locations in Cornwall where early Iron Age pottery has been unearthed, Maen Cliff Castle represents a genuine treasure of the region.

Fragments of pottery spanning the era from 400 BC to 400 AD have been uncovered at the location, enhancing its intrigue and layered history.

In fact, local legend suggests the castle was once the dwelling of the giant Myen Du, though the promontory fort more probably served as a defensive retreat or observation point, a commercial trading station or a location for significant ceremonial gatherings.

WHITBY – with a fascinating history spanning sailors to vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi… it takes a lot to beat this coastal gem.

And now, the pretty seaside destination has also been announced as the home of the best fish and chips in the UK.

Trenchers of Whitby secured the Restaurant of the Year title at the National Fish and Chips Awards 2026.

The awards are known as the ‘Oscars‘ of the fish and chip industry and recognise excellence, sustainability, quality and outstanding customer service, across the UK.

The restaurant can be found in the centre of Whitby, and you can either sit down or take away.

If you were heading to the restaurant you can opt for plaice with chipped potatoes, lemon and homemade tartare sauce for £20.95.

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If you fancy something more classic, there is cod with chipped potatoes, lemon and homemade tartare sauce in three sizes: small for £15.95; medium for £19.95 and large for £21.95.

Then for takeaway, you could grab cod and chips, haddock and chips or scampi and chips all for £13.50 each.

There’s a children’s menu as well.

A visit to Whitby ticks off all the British seaside classics, although there is so much more to the historic fishing town than you’d find in a traditional day out.

In my trip to the North Yorkshire town, I ticked off all the staple activities. A Mr Whippy enjoyed by the harbour, spare change spent in Funland’s Amusements, and fish and chips for tea.

Plus my stroll along the sands, backed by spectacular moss-green cliffs, was an ideal way to soak up those breath-taking views of the rugged Yorkshire coast.

One of the things that makes Whitby stand out amongst other seaside spots is its connection to a famous explorer.

The Captain Cook Museum ‘House on the Harbour’ is a must-visit – it was where a young James Cook was an apprentice to Captain John Walker, aged 17, in 1746.

This is where I spent the afternoon, having a nosy inside the 17th century rooms where the explorer used to live.

There’s also a Captain Cook boat tour on offer at the harbour, telling you all about the life of the famous explorer – with plenty of breaks for sea shanties to stomp and sing along to.

But once I’d had my fill of cosy boltholes, battered foods and beach walks, what intrigued me the most about the town was its connection to Dracula.

You can see the Gothic Whitby Abbey from across the harbour, keeping watch over the town from its clifftop perch.

I could feel the eeriness just laying eyes on the ruins – it was as if for a moment I could picture Count Dracula lurking somewhere within.

Dracula writer Bram Stoker visited Whitby in 1890, where he was immediately struck by the dramatic Gothic ruins that loom over the pretty coastal town.

Stoker then read up on folklore in the town’s public library, and was filled with inspiration to write the classic text – and the rest is history.

Today the town celebrates its Dracula connection, with themed walking tours, a Dracula Experience centre and there’s even been theatre productions held in the abbey ruins.

In fact, to celebrate 125 years since the novel’s publication, English Heritage broke a Guinness World Record back in 2022 for the largest gathering of people dressed as vampires (1,369, to be exact!).

You can even walk the famous Whitby 199 steps – the very same which a sinister black dog dashes up to announce Dracula’s arrival in Whitby in the famous book.

Walking them in the daytime felt much more scenic than spooky, with views of red-roofed cottages and blooming Red Valerian flowers peeking out with each step.

The steps lead you to the 12th century St Mary’s Church, which is well worth a visit for its panoramic views over the bay – particularly at sunset.

If you like a coastal walk, there’s a portion of the Cleveland Way coastal path with spectacular views that passes through the town.

And if you walk far south enough along the Cleveland Way coastal path from Whitby (or take a 15-minute drive), you’ll wind up in Robin Hood’s Bay.

Exploring the fairytale streets that back the bay is an absolute must as well.

Here, narrow cobbled alleys are dotted with charming gift shops and tiny pubs which wind down the steep hillside, leading you down to the sea.

Sat with a pint at the Bay Hotel, I watched a fisherman play fetch with his Border Collie at the water’s edge – and realised that this pretty coastline truly is something straight out of a storybook.

To make matters even more magical, the following day was spent exploring the nearby waterfalls of Goathland and the Mallyan Spout – just a 20-minute drive from Whitby.

So if you’re after a seaside escape that feels both traditionally British yet has a touch of fairytale magic – set off on a trip to Whitby.

If you are wanting to explore more places with top fish and chip spots, here’s a map of Britain’s top 10 fish and chip shops – did your local make the list?

Plus, last summer, travel reporter Cyann Fielding, visited the seaside town with the UK’s best fish and chips.