The Old Sign Maker
When it came to creating our shop front, there was only one man for the job.
Pete has been making and painting signs in Whitby with his wife Jo for over 35 years, and their work can be seen all around town — quietly shaping the look and feel of its independent businesses.
A steady hand, an eye for design, and a commitment to traditional craftsmanship have brought countless ideas to life. Each sign is made by hand, either in their workshop or painted on site, using skills that have stood the test of time — typography, calligraphy and gilding, all done properly.
Pete himself is easy to spot. A bowler hat, steel toe cap boots, and often working from a set of wooden trestles — a familiar sight if you’ve spent any time in town.
Once you notice their work, you start to see it everywhere.
How many of their signs can you spot on your next visit?
Tate Hill Beach
Tucked inside the harbour, Tate Hill Beach is smaller than the ‘long sand’ of West cliff beach, but far more sheltered — protected from the North Sea by the piers and their extensions.
Tate Hill Pier itself once marked the entrance to the harbour and is thought to be one of the oldest in England, dating back to 1190’s
It’s also the beach my grandparents took us to. I’m sure there were buckets and spades, but what stays with me is my Grandad Billy joking that if we threw any more stones into the harbour, we’d fill it in.
My grandma Mary, now 97, still tells stories of playing shop here as a child — selling pretty pebbles and shells as her stock.
There’s literary history here too. In 1885, during what was described as “a storm of great violence”, the Russian ship Dmitry ran aground here. The event is said to have inspired Bram Stoker, whose Dracula begins with the doomed ship Demeter running ashore releasing its dark cargo.
A small beach, but one with plenty of memories, some still to be made.
Baytown Coffee
I don’t drink coffee.
Growing up, I never really drank hot drinks at all. These days I’ll happily have the odd Earl Grey, herbal tea or matcha — so perhaps I’ve grown up a little, but not quite enough to have crossed over to coffee.
That said, I like the smell. I like the idea of it — the ritual of a morning brew. Just not the taste. Coffee chocolates are a particular risk if picked unknowingly.
If you are a coffee drinker, the Baytown Coffee Discovery Pack lets you try a few of their blends before committing to a full bag, a great introduction to this Robin Hood’s Bay roastery.
There’s Boggle Hole — dark, rich and bold. One for those who like their coffee strong, whether taken black or as a punchy espresso with milk.
The Bolts is their signature espresso blend. A balanced medium roast — smooth, versatile, and made for mornings.
Then there’s Albion Street, a lighter roast. Sweet, lively, and a little different, with just enough character to stand out.
When I do finally grow up, this might be where my coffee adventure begins.
From Behind the Counter
Just Watched
A beautiful British sitcom from the maker of The Detectorists. Worth your time.
On the Stereo
Live – released from the studio confines this album shows their raw soulful confidence.
Coming Up
The Made in Whitby Easter Festival
3rd – 6th April – Whitby Abbey
