The Hart Inn, Sandsend: A handsome big old pub in one of Yorkshire coast's most popular villages
You know this place. You’ve driven past it a hundred times on the way to Whitby. It’s that handsome big old pub on the bad corner by the bridge in Sandsend. You might not have called in because: parking.
Sandsend is now one of the most popular and busy villages on the Yorkshire coast, partly because of the very smart new Saltmoore estate (wellness retreat/restaurant/hotel) just up the road, and partly because, well, Sandsend’s got everything: huge beach, great cafes, bucket and spade shops and of course Mary’s, the terrific sandwich shop. But parking can be a bit of a mare – but fear not, because the Hart has a car park at the back which makes life easier.
There are two gardens, the one at the side you can see from the road, and another big one at the back which is quiet, leafy and comfortable.
Inside, it’s pretty traditional with stone floors, with fresh flowers, beams, tongue and grooved panelling and comfy leather and wool banquettes.
On the pumps, Wainwright Gold and Timmy Taylor Landlord – there’s generally three cask ales but one had run out on visit. There are wines by the glass and a decent gin list – love the sound of Yorkshire Hooting Owl rhubarb and vanilla.
Food-wise, there’s a seafood platter involving Whitby crab and prawns, mackerel, smoked salmon, cockles and mussels - £40 with fries. There’s mushrooms stroganoff, Thai prawn and monkfish curry, tuna and cheese melt and chicken parmo – which you might need to burn off yomping along the beach to Whitby and back.
The pub’s dog-friendly – just downstairs though, the dining room upstairs is dog-free, so check where you’re sitting if you book at meal.
The Hart Inn, East Row, Sandsend, Whitby YO21 3SU
Welcome4/5
Atmosphere4/5
Drinks choice4/5
Prices4/5