Penny Howe

Getting to Penny Howe means leaving Whitby behind and heading inland towards the moors - a proper trek that separates the casual visitors from those who actually want to see something. This Bronze Age round barrow sits alone on the hillside, a grass-covered mound that's been here for roughly 4,000 years. You won't find much in the way of interpretation boards or fencing; it's just you, the monument, and the North Yorkshire landscape rolling away in all directions.

The walk to reach it is the main event. It's not difficult, but it's exposed moorland and you'll want decent boots. Once you get there, the views back towards the coast and across to the inland valleys make the effort worthwhile. History buffs will appreciate the sense of continuity - this site has watched over the same piece of land since the Bronze Age - but to be honest, if you're not keen on walking or you've got young kids in tow, you might find the reward modest compared to the effort required.

It works well as part of a broader moorland walk from base camps like Prospect House Farm Glamping or Northcliffe Holiday Parks, both just outside Whitby. Free admission, naturally, and you can visit any time. Allow a couple of hours from parking to get there and back, depending on fitness. Best visited on a clear day when the visibility makes that ancient panorama count for something.