An old cellar or a wartime bunker? The Porthole is shrouded in myth and legend and has now become an unlikely, but very successful B&B in Sandsend.
The Story
Folklore has it that two brothers wanted to build a house on the headland in Sandsend. One went behind the others back and started to build. The other did the same but, when he reached the cellar stage, they made up and continued building just the first house. The cellar has remained in the garden ever since.
Eighteen months ago, current owner, Helen Lloyd, made the decision to renovate the bunker.
The Beautiful Porthole B&B
The walls were 18” thick, made from Sandsend Cement (a precursor to Portland Cement) and, as the whole building was set into the headland, it promised to be a mammoth task.
The Progress
Helen starting renovating the Porthole last year, on the back of the success she’d enjoyed with her self-catering cottages in Sandsend. Her Craigmore cottage only had four weeks unlet all year (thanks to their listing on iknow-yorkshire,) which gave her the confidence to renovate and create something a little more unusual.
Helen knew from her online experience that people were searching for high quality cottages, so she made The Porthole top quality.
The stunning view from the decked area
The Results
What Helen has achieved is nothing short of astounding. The building has been converted into a large double bedroom and ensuite bathroom, available on a bed and breakfast basis.
Large French windows run the length of the building and lead onto a private terrace, which offers spectacular views towards the sea and Whitby Abbey.
She’s welcomed guests from Canada, Sweden, America and France, many of whom have booked through iknow-yorkshire.
The bedroom has a breath taking view
“The site really is marvellous. I’ve been with iknow for two years and would recommend them to anyone with holiday accommodation. »
“I receive a large proportion of my
bookings through iknow and that
consistency gave me the confidence
to invest in The Porthole.”
Helen Lloyd, Owner
