BBC Breakfast weather forecast was broadcast from Whitby Abbey this morning. The Abbey is illuminated this weekend as part of the Hallowe'en & Goth Weekend with links to Bram Stoker's Dracula. Even the weather is contributing to the spooky atmosphere!

Still time to book a last minute half term weekend break. This is the last school break until Christmas. Call 01947 603801 to book now.

Last Call for the Goth Weekend - starts 30 October. Definitely an experience - for all the family. Also Hallowe'en which fits perfectly with the Goths.

British Summer Time might have come to an end and we had our first real frost last night, but the delphiniums, hydrangeas and fuschias are still going strong. The trees are still hanging on to their leaves and the autumn colours are really good this year.

The Whitby Goth Weekend is coming up - 30 October to 1 November. We have vacancies - call to book now.

Sometimes it's good to make changes in the garden. This corner by the pond wasn't working too well. So up came the flags (2' x 3' flags are very heavy!!) then the sand and stone beneath. The next job was to dig over the compacted soil, then finally make a start on the planting. I'll add more plants next spring. Hopefully this should be a more colourful corner by next summer.

Explore the Esk Valley by train. The BR train runs from Whitby to Middlesbrough and stops in Ruswarp at the station just 2 minutes walk from the cottage. Your journey passes through Sleights, Grosmont, Egton, Glaisdale, Lealholm, Danby Castleton, Commondale, Kildale & Great Ayton before ending in Middlesbrough.

The scenery is spectacular and you see views not seen from a car. If you like to walk, there is the Esk Valley Walk which can be accessed from any of the village stations. Just catch the train to one of the village stations, then walk back 1 or 2 stations before picking up the return train back to the cottage. Or take the train to Great Ayton and climb to the top of Roseberry Topping for a panoramic view of Teesside and the North York Moors.

If walking is not for you, you could indulge in some retail therapy in Middlesbrough. The shopping precinct is only 5 minutes walk from the station. You can find all the big name shops there too.

The line is subsidised so prices are reasonable - just £7.80 adult day return, Whitby to Middlesbrough.