Roman Signal Station

The Roman Signal Station sits on the cliffs above Whitby, a proper windswept spot that's been watching over the North Sea for nearly two thousand years. What you're looking at now is the remains of a stone fortification - low walls mostly, foundations really - but stand there on a clear day and you understand why the Romans chose it. They could see ships coming from miles away, signal back to the garrison at Whitby itself, keep the coast secure.

History enthusiasts will find it genuinely absorbing. The view's spectacular too, though I'll be honest - unless you're already keen on Roman archaeology, you could take in what there is in fifteen minutes flat. There's not much interpretation on site, so bring a guidebook or do your homework beforehand.

It's free to visit and accessible year-round, though winter gales make you respect what those Roman soldiers endured up here. The walk from Whitby town centre takes about forty minutes across the clifftops - fairly exposed, mind you, so not ideal if you've got very small children.

Fits nicely into a broader holiday around Whitby itself. Broadings Farm Caravan Site and Whitby Holiday Park are both close enough that you could base yourself there and spend a morning exploring the signal station, then head back to town for proper fish and chips. Worth the effort if you're already in the area, less so if it's a special trip.