Whaligoe (ND321403) is an extraordinary herring fishing harbour. To reach the small inlet one had to walk down over 300 steps, carved out of the steep cliff. At the bottom the boats were hoisted out of the water onto a platform. Women had to go up and down the steps carrying nets or fish on their backs. In 1774 the Rev. Pope commented that it was 'surprising.without seeing, would hardly believe'. The steps are mid-18th century, repaired in the 19th century when the present quay was built. In 1828 some 24 boats used the small harbour.