At first glance, Richmond may appear to be just another charming yet relatively standard market town in North Yorkshire. However, this quaint spot hides a secret beach, tucked away at the end of a picturesque country walk. 

Blessed with radiant sunshine and clear blue skies, Yorkshire Live writer Samantha Teasdale recently embarked on the gentle 2.5-mile Easby Loop walk. This scenic trail meanders past the historic 12th Century Easby Abbey and St Agatha's church. The starting point is conveniently located near a ticket machine in the car park, leading into a peaceful woodland stroll.

Despite being situated in hilly Yorkshire, Samantha noted that the path was surprisingly flat and well-frequented by other walkers, families with dogs, and individuals on mobility scooters, all basking in the pleasant weather.

The route was clearly signposted, meanig there was no need for a map, and within half an hour, they had reached the church and abbey. 

She said: "On arrival, we looked out for the Adam and Eve painting on the wall in the church – and nothing could have prepared us for how amazing it was. It's just a shame that the Abbey was destroyed by Henry VIII since that, too, seemed like it would have been an impressive structure."

Samantha continued: "After spending a long time walking around the well-preserved Abbey ruins we headed back to the town centre. Unlike the route to the church and abbey, this time we had to navigate some uphill climbs, but once we reached the top we were rewarded with a stunning vista over the town."

There was a variety of pubs, restaurants and local businesses nestled among well-known high-street brands, all under the shadow of the magnificent Richmond Castle. A pub boasting a beer garden adjacent to the castle also caught Samantha's eye. 

However, it was on their return journey to the car park from the castle that they stumbled upon the true gems of Richmond.

Samantha said: "We found a riverside park area with plenty of green spaces, waterfall and even a hidden beach with golden sand. Not something you would expect in a North Yorkshire town not on a coast.

"We saw plenty of kids and adults playing in the shallow water and sunbathing either on rocks or on the grass surrounded by others playing music, having a picnic and playing frisbee."

She noted that Richmond is not only tourist-friendly, offering ample parking facilities, but also boasts a wealth of activities including several museums and a plethora of dining and drinking options - making it the ideal weekend getaway.