tourist map of whitby

Visit Yorkshire Guide to Whitby

Ancient fishing port and resort set on the north yorkshire heritage coast.

• Yorkshire Coast
• More about Scarborough

One of the most picturesque ports in England, Whitby and its harbour are set in a ravine at the mouth of the River Esk. Dominated by the clifftop ruined Abbey, the narrow alleys and quaint streets climb down to the busy quayside, with its harbourside houses and small shops filled with crafts, curios, and antiques.

From these centuries old streets, 199 steps lead up to the parish Church of St Mary, one of the finest Anglo Saxon churches in the country, featuring carved pews made by ship's carpenters and craftsmen from Whitby's once booming whaling fleet.

Its churchyard is famous for providing the setting which inspired Bram Stoker to write his classic novel - Dracula. Dickens and Tennyson are also known to have enjoyed the hospitality of Whitby's ancient inns.

Inside the Whitby Museum discover the life story of the town's most famous inhabitant, Captain James Cook, who sailed from the port to change the history of the world. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum, his former home in Grape Lane, is furnished in the style of his times, when Whitby was the seventh-largest port in England. As famous locally are the whaling masters of the Scoresby family, and pioneer photographer Frank Meadow Sutcliffe.

Whitby is well known for its jet, a hard black mineral dug from its cliffs since Victorian times, and fashioned locally into jewellery and ornament. Its famous Smokehouse still operates, converting herring to kipper by the traditional process.

A bustling and colourful working port, Whitby offers fishing trips by boat or from the pier.

Its Regatta in mid-August and a week-long Captain Cook Festival in October reflect the seafaring traditions. The Whitby Festival is held around mid-June.

Inland from Whitby, the North York Moors National Park is a quiet, unspoilt upland area perfect for walking or touring. Goathland, with its 'Heartbeat' connections, is within easy reach, as is Grosmont, where the spectacular North York Moors Steam Railway meets the Esk Valley line. Peaceful moorland and gentle valleys with pretty villages, castles and abbeys in abundance, lead to expanses of glorious countryside associated with James Herriot.

Along the coast, the Captain Cook Heritage Trail leads from Great Ayton, where he lived, to his departure port of Whitby. Staithes and Runswick Bay are quaint and picturesque fishing villages. South of Whitby is Robin Hood's Bay, and beyond the Victorian splendour of Scarborough.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 18 best things to do in Whitby

Goth weekends, fish n' chips and the cosiest pubs you've ever laid eyes on? Welcome to Whitby

Whitby is and always has been the perfect seaside getaway. This idyllic former fishing town on the North Yorkshire coast has maintained all of its best traditions (hello, Whitby Goth Weekend), and won’t change for no one. Spend a day or a weekend here to discover fantastic seafood, old cosy pubs, and a hell of a lot of very quirky charm. 

From its spooky abbeys and its cliff-top graveyard to its cobbled streets and whale bone monuments, visiting Whitby is sort of like stepping into a gothic novel, but a really, really fun one. Stroll along the Blue Flag beach in the summer, dip into independent shops in town, and sink your teeth into a healthy portion of fish and chips. And if you’ve got the kids in tow, even better – the exhibitions and activities here are endless. Here are the best things to do in Whitby right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The ultimate guide to Yorkshire 🌳 The best places to visit in the UK 🍝 The best restaurants in the UK

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Whitby

1.  Whitby Abbey

What is it? A gorgeously spectral 13th-century ruin that looms over Whitby from its spot high above the town on the East Cliff.

Why go? Bram Stoker was so taken by the Gothic pile it inspired him to write ‘Dracula’ and, more recently, it’s previously been named Britain’s Most Romantic Ruin. Visitors can walk among the crumbled church and even touch the old stones. Admire the stunning panoramas across the harbour (most beautiful at sunset) and don’t miss the visitors’ centre housed in a nearby 17th-century mansion to explore the Abbey’s full history.

2.  Whitby Sands

What is it? A picturesque stretch of caramel sand unfolding from the West Pier for two miles along the coast to the sweet little fishing village of Sandsend.

Why go? Lined by grass-tufted cliffs and multi-coloured beach huts, it’s the perfect spot for a windswept walk or an ice-cream lunch. There’s plenty of sandcastle potential. Arrive shore-side in style with a trip down the cliff lift.

3.  Whitby Heritage Jet Centre

What is it? Jet is a gemstone made from fossilised wood, and Whitby Jet is unique due to the intensity of its blackness. Through a crooked doorway off cobbled Church Street you’ll find this little shop specialising in the stuff.

Why go? There’s a handful of lovely jet shops scattered around the town, but here you’ll find the last remaining example of a Victorian Jet Workshop. Ask one of the friendly jewellers to show you around.

4.  The 199 Steps

What is it? Make like Dracula, who ran up this iconic set of stone steps disguised as a black hound in Stoker’s novel, and try to climb the formidable flight yourself. This is one of Whitby’s most picturesque spots and it is tradition to count each step as you climb up from Church Street to the top of East Cliff.

Why go? It’s worth breaking a sweat for the stunning views over the town and harbour. You’ll also find the fabulously unique St Mary’s Church at the top with its maze of box pews and splendid pulpit. See if you can spot ‘Humpty Dumpty’s tomb’ in the grave yard.  

5.  The Captain Cook Experience

What is it?  A boat trip on an authentic replica of HMS Endeavour. This ship was sailed by Captain James Cook during his scientific expedition of 1768. 

Why Go?  A fun activity for all the family – dogs welcome on board too – and a different way to see and explore Whitby.

6.  The Magpie Café

What is it? Whitby has a stellar reputation when it comes to fish and chips. (It’s a town filled with dripping that’s as thick as the air!) Ask any local where you’ll find the best and they’re sure to say Magpie.

Why go? The battered cod served here is so good that long queues snake down the pavement for a piece. (There are contenders to its crown, so if you’re after some scraps without a hefty wait head to Quayside or Trenchers.)

7.  The North York Moors Railway

What is it? If you fancy venturing further into God’s Own Country book a seat on this heritage steam train. It trundles past the North York Moors National Park from Whitby to the ancient market town of Pickering.

Why go? You’ll pass stunning views of the Yorkshire landscape, which are filled with eye-popping patches of purple heather in the summer. For a special treat, book into their dining carriage to enjoy a slap-up meal while you travel.

8.  Whitby Harbour West Lighthouse

What is it? Just when you thought Whitby couldn’t offer any more stairs, there’s another 81 to climb up: the tiny, spiral staircase in this gorgeous lighthouse. It’s one of two at the harbour entrance, but the tower on the West Pier is the taller of the duo.

Why go? In the lamp room you can get another great aerial perspective of the town and watch the boats coming in and out of the harbour. Visit when it’s stormy to really see the difference between the churning sea waves and placid harbour waters.  

9.  Whitby Whalebone Arch

What is it? Two hundred years ago Whitby was best known as a thriving hub of the UK whaling industry. This arc, made from two huge whale jaw bones, was first erected 1853. It’s been replaced twice over the years, most recently in 2003 by bones from a Bowhead whale killed legally by Alaskan Inuits.

Why go? Nowadays the arch makes for a nice Insta op, with the two huge bones framing a pretty view of the town’s red-roofed cottages and the Abbey ruins. If you fancy trying to spot some real Whales, take a voyage on a Whitby Whale Watching boat tour.

10.  Whitby Brewery

What is it? Keep your eyes peeled for this little microbrewery and tap room. It sits right beneath the towering arches of Whitby Abbey. Set in a converted barn, there’s a small bar serving five cask beers and a selection of bottles all produced onsite, with knowledgeable and friendly staff pulling the pints.

Why go? It’s the perfect spot to refuel after trekking up the 199 steps. Sit on one of the beer barrel stools and sink a pint of Whitby Whaler right next to one of the tanks it was made in.

11.  The Whitby Goth Weekend

What is it?  An alternative music festival founded in 1994 that has grown to become one of the world’s premier goth events.

Why go?  As an opportunity to unleash your inner dark side, dress up to the nines and join in a celebration of goth culture in the home of Dracula. Or, simply, be a bystander and enjoy the music and the fashion efforts of others.

12.  Nearby coastal towns

What is it?  A series of nearby towns to visit when you’re in Whitby to make your trip to the coast that extra bit special. If you drop down the coast you can take in the beautiful Robin Hood’s Bay, Filey and Scarborough. Or, a little further up the coast, there are the picturesque small seaside towns of Staithes and Runswick Bay. 

Why go?  To witness some of the most beautiful coastline the UK has to offer. Plus, experience some of the cosiest and cutest seaside towns you’ll ever walk around. 

13.  Museum of Victorian Science

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Science Museum (@sciencemuseum)

What is it? A journey of real science through 19th century physics.

Why go? To get an insight into the evolution of science through some fun hands-on activities. Featuring strange glowing bulbs, the Jacob's Ladder, crackling sparks, electric flames, the telegraph system, early x-ray tubes and literally hundreds of early electrical instruments.

14.  Fortune’s Kippers

What is it? If you don’t think you’re a fan of kippers, you will be by the time you’ve left Fortune’s. This tiny, ramshackle shop is largely unchanged since it was established in 1872 and you’ll see old photos on the wall of the six generations of family that have worked here.

Why go? You’ll smell its smokehouse long-before you reach it and its charred black walls filled with lines of hanging fish are a sight to behold. They also smoke bacon, if you really can’t be swayed to kippers.  

15.  Captain Cook Memorial Museum

What is it? A handsome harbourside house where the young James Cook lodged as a humble apprentice before becoming the world-famous explorer.

Why go? It’s packed with all the information you could ever want on the Yorkshire seafarer, as well as original paintings, maps, letters and ship models. Those not of a nautical persuasion will appreciate the beautifully restored rooms, especially the recreation of a tiny 17th-century kitchen.   

16.  Whitby Museum & Pannett Art Gallery

What is it? If you want to know what Whitby looked like back in the day (which isn’t too far off what you’ll see now), head to Pannett Gallery . Watercolours of the town in all its Victorian splendour hang on the walls, alongside two small permanent collections of work by The Staithes group and the Weatherill Family. Whitby Museum shares the same building and is packed with collections ranging from jet and fossils to whaling paraphernalia and bird specimens.

Why go? The museum’s fossil collection really is something to see, especially its giant ichthyosaur skeleton. There’s also some delectable cakes to be scoffed in its kitsch little tea room.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Andrew Montgomery

Whitby is a town of two parts, with the River Esk carving a path between a huddle of 18th-century fishermen's cottages along its East Cliff and a genteel Victorian suburb atop the West Cliff. It's also a town with two personalities – on the one hand, a busy commercial and fishing port (it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook gained his seafaring legs) with a bustling quayside awash with fish; on the other, an oh-so-pretty, traditional seaside resort complete with sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Whitby Abbey

There are ruined abbeys, and there are picturesque ruined abbeys. And then there's Whitby Abbey, dominating the skyline above the East Cliff like a great…

Captain Cook Memorial Museum

This fascinating museum occupies the house of the ship owner with whom Cook began his seafaring career. Highlights include the attic where Cook lodged as…

Endeavour Experience Whitby

In 2018, a full-size replica of Captain Cook’s HM Bark Endeavour became a permanent fixture in Whitby harbour and opened to the public as a visitor…

Whitby Jet Heritage Centre

A museum housing the remains of Whitby's last Victorian jet workshop lies at the bottom of the 199 steps, with original tools rescued from a derelict…

Whitby Sands

Whitby Sands, stretching west from the harbour mouth, offers donkey rides, ice-cream vendors and bucket-and-spade escapades, though the sand is mostly…

Museum of Whitby Jet

Housed inside a 1901 chapel, this small museum has created a temple to Whitby jet – one of the town’s most prized exports, a gothic icon, and a favourite…

St Mary's Church

The 199 steps of Church Stairs lead steeply up from the end of Church St, passing the spooky graveyard of St Mary's Church, a favourite haunt of Goth…

Whitby Museum

Set in a park to the west of the town centre is the wonderfully eclectic Whitby Museum, with displays of fossil plesiosaurs and dinosaur footprints,…

Plan with a local

Experience the real England

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Whitby

Mar 22, 2019 • 4 min read

There’s no better time to plan an escape to Yorkshire than summer. The days are long, the green hills and dales shimmer in the sun like emeralds and there…

Oct 25, 2018 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Whitby

Map of Whitby — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Whitby, United Kingdom for travelers! Check out Whitby’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Whitby? See our Whitby Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Whitby. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Whitby map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Whitby by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 16 attractions in Whitby

Whitby abbey, captain cook memorial museum.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

RNLI Whitby Museum

Whitby museum, whitby beach, falling foss tea garden, pannett park, whalebone arch, beacon farm ice cream, campsite & tearooms, the whitby endeavour, saltwick bay, sandsend beach, whitby coastal cruises ltd, captain cook memorial, the cinder track, top 10 restaurants in whitby, magpie café, the fisherman's wife whitby, harry's lounge bar & brasserie, humble pie n mash ltd, the four seasons restaurant, the edge restaurant, mademoiselle's holiday lettings, transportation in whitby, nearby airports, teesside international airport, highways and major roads.

• A171: This is the major road that connects Whitby to Guisborough and Middlesbrough in the west.
• A174: This road runs east from Whitby to the town of Redcar.
• A1710: This is a major route within the town of Whitby, running from the A171 to the A169.
• A169: This road runs north from Whitby to Pickering and the North York Moors National Park.
• A1711: This road runs from the A171 to the town center of Whitby.
• A1039: This road connects Whitby to Scarborough in the south, passing through the town of Robin Hood's Bay.
• A180: This road runs from the A1039 to the coastal town of Filey.
• A1718: This is a major road within Whitby, running from the Esk Bridge to the A171.
• B1416: This road runs from the A171 to the village of Sleights north of Whitby.
• B1447: This road runs from the A171 to the village of Goathland, famous for its appearance in the TV show 'Heartbeat'.

Top searches in Whitby

Popular road trips from whitby, what's the weather like in whitby.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Whitby for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Whitby in January
• Weather in Whitby in February
• Weather in Whitby in March
• Weather in Whitby in April
• Weather in Whitby in May
• Weather in Whitby in June
• Weather in Whitby in July
• Weather in Whitby in August
• Weather in Whitby in September
• Weather in Whitby in October
• Weather in Whitby in November
• Weather in Whitby in December

All road trips from Whitby

• Whitby to London drive
• Whitby to Paris drive
• Whitby to Edinburgh drive
• Whitby to Dublin drive
• Whitby to Amsterdam drive
• Whitby to Rome drive
• Whitby to Barcelona drive
• Whitby to Liverpool drive
• Whitby to Blackpool drive
• Whitby to Manchester drive
• Whitby to Berlin drive
• Whitby to Glasgow drive
• Whitby to Birmingham drive
• Whitby to Prague drive
• Whitby to Madrid drive
• Whitby to Brussels drive
• Whitby to Florence drive
• Whitby to Leeds drive
• Whitby to Milan drive
• Whitby to Vienna drive
• Whitby to Belfast drive
• Whitby to Budapest drive
• Whitby to Lisbon drive
• Whitby to Bath drive
• Whitby to Venice drive
• Whitby to Newcastle upon Tyne drive
• Whitby to Bruges drive
• Whitby to Peak District National Park drive
• Whitby to Lincoln drive

Explore nearby places

• Fylingthorpe
• Robin Hoods Bay
• North York Moors National Park
• Skinningrove
• Rosedale Abbey
• Skelton-in-Cleveland
• Saltburn-by-the-Sea
• Scarborough
• Marske-by-the-Sea
• Hutton le Hole
• Thornton-Le-Dale
• Guisborough

All related maps of Whitby

• Map of Ruswarp
• Map of Sandsend
• Map of Sleights
• Map of Hawsker
• Map of Lythe
• Map of Fylingthorpe
• Map of Robin Hoods Bay
• Map of Grosmont
• Map of Runswick
• Map of Goathland
• Map of Hinderwell
• Map of Ravenscar
• Map of Glaisdale
• Map of Staithes
• Map of North York Moors National Park
• Map of Danby
• Map of Loftus
• Map of Skinningrove
• Map of Brotton
• Map of Rosedale Abbey
• Map of Westerdale
• Map of Skelton-in-Cleveland
• Map of Saltburn-by-the-Sea
• Map of Lastingham
• Map of Scarborough
• Map of Marske-by-the-Sea
• Map of Hutton le Hole
• Map of Thornton-Le-Dale
• Map of Guisborough
• Map of Pickering

Whitby throughout the year

• Whitby in January
• Whitby in February
• Whitby in March
• Whitby in April
• Whitby in May
• Whitby in June
• Whitby in July
• Whitby in August
• Whitby in September
• Whitby in October
• Whitby in November
• Whitby in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Whitby?

Get inspired for your trip to Whitby with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Whitby Itinerary
• 2-Day Whitby Itinerary
• 3-Day Whitby Itinerary
• 4-Day Whitby Itinerary
• 5-Day Whitby Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

15 Top-Rated Things to Do in Whitby, England

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Oct 14, 2022

Whitby may be small, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in attractions and ambience. A pretty seaside town in Northern Yorkshire , Whitby offers a unique mix of history, mystery, and charm. It's chock-full of fun things to do to keep everyone happy, even the kids.

From vampire-themed walks to a spooky, ruined abbey to lamp-lighted cobblestone streets, there's a lot to love about Whitby's distinctive allure. The birthplace of Dracula, this northern Yorkshire town is a must-see when visiting England.

Whitby is famed for hosting two very different celebrities over the years: 18 th -century British explorer Captain James Cook and the famed character we mentioned earlier, Dracula. Well, Dracula didn't actually stay here, but his name and much of the book's scenery was created during Bram Stoker's stay in 1890.

Once a maritime hub for shipbuilding and fishing, Whitby also dabbled in the whaling trade. Today, its busy port, Blue Flag beach , and picturesque resort town cater to tourists who want to unwind.

Before you go, plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in Whitby.

1. Get in Touch with Your Gothic Side at Whitby Abbey

2. climb the 199 steps, 3. bask in the sun on whitby beach, 4. walk in a great explorer's footsteps at the captain cook memorial museum, 5. travel back in time at the whitby museum and pannett art gallery, 6. step inside the unique st. mary's church, 7. take a time out at pannett park, 8. enjoy a cuppa at falling foss tea garden, 9. walk across the whitby swing bridge, 10. relax at robin hood's bay, 11. dress up at whitby goth weekend, 12. climb aboard the north yorkshire moors railway, 13. walk through the whalebone arch, 14. sandsend beach, 15. buy a gem from heritage jet, map of things to do in whitby, england.

The remains of a striking 11 th -century Benedictine monastery perch high above Whitby Harbor , brooding over the action below. The most popular tourist attraction in town, Whitby Abbey gives off an eerie, haunted vibe; its Gothic walls standing in theatrical glory beneath an oft cloudy sky. The view from atop the East Cliff is unbeatable. Bring a camera.

The first monastery to sit on this site was founded in the late 650s. A few years later, in 664, the Synod of Whitby determined that the Roman form of Christianity (not Celtic) would prevail, leading to a new date for Easter, and a more far-reaching role for the Pope.

It's easy to see why Bram Stoker used this abbey as an important setting in his famous novel. Walking around the building, its pinnacles, window tracings, and towering Gothic columns evoke a mysterious sort of calm.

Insider's tip: Scan a QR code on your phone for a free audio tour. There are only a few information boards spotted throughout the site, so you'll be happy for the added information. Also, climbing the 199 steps is one of the best ways to reach the abbey.

Address: Abbey Lane, Whitby

Official site: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/whitby-abbey/

Dracula fans may recognize these steps from the novel. The famed creature ran up them while disguised as a black dog. Although climbing stairs (199 to be exact) may not be your idea of a fun thing to do on holiday, the view from the top is definitely worth the effort you expended.

Originally made from wood, these steps are thought to date to either the 12 th century or mid 1300s and were replaced with stone in the late 1700s. They begin on Church Lane and end at St. Mary's Church atop the East Cliff. This is one of the most popular attractions in Whitby.

Stop and rest on the "coffin benches" to appreciate the magnificent view (and catch your breath). The staircase was originally used for pallbearers to transport coffins to the church cemetery. These wooden planks were used to give them a break on their way to the top, hence their name.

Insider's tip: Some believe that climbing the 199 steps was used to test a person's Christian faith. Climbing the stairs to attend church proved the people were faithful. Will you pass the test?

Address: Church Lane, Whitby

Multi-colored huts and a wide, paved boardwalk back beautiful Whitby Beach. The beach itself is so lovely that it's been presented with the only Blue Flag Beach award in Yorkshire. That means the sand is clean, the water clear, and the surrounding environment well protected. Each of these attributes make this an ideal beach for families .

It's a popular place to unwind. Visitors enjoy swimming (low tide is the calmest), sandcastle building, and relaxing with a picnic (and ice cream from a local shop). Take a trip in the cliff lift for an easy journey to the sand or walk yourself down the windswept cliff to the lovely beach below.

Kids will love exploring the rock pools for sea creatures, but it's the donkey rides that will have them begging to stay all day. Many beaches offer visiting children guided donkey rides along the sand during summer, a centuries-old tradition practiced throughout the UK.

The view from this golden beach is delightful. You'll see the harbor's two long piers helping guide the River Esk into the North Sea. Each is adorned by a picturesque lighthouse.

Insider's tip: Prepare yourself. The water is chilly! You'll want something warm to change into once you emerge.

Address: 1 Pier Road, West Cliff

Whitby was the one-time home of 18 th -century British explorer Captain James Cook, who stayed in town while apprenticing with a local shipping company. You can feel his presence today in the form of a giant statue and one of the town's star attractions: the Captain Cook Memorial Museum.

Here, you can explore the striking, 17 th -century House on the Harbour , a.k.a. John Walker's House . This is where a young Captain Cook lay his weary head after a long day spent apprenticing for Captain Walker. This is the only surviving building in town that can be officially connected to Cook.

Inside, you'll find letters written by the famed Captain, as well as a painting of his wife, Elizabeth (whom he called Betsy) and a portrait of William Bligh, Cook's Master on the Resolution. Other art includes works created by artists who were brought along to record findings on the voyages.

Address: Grape Lane, Whitby

Official site: https://www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk/

The Whitby Museum was founded in 1823 as part of the Literary and Philosophical Society. At the time, it was used as a place to exhibit strange and incredible fossils, as well as unique items brought ashore by sailors from foreign lands.

Today, the museum is housed in a lovely Victorian building. It retains the relics it began with, as well as other items such as large model ships, jet (a black mineral used to make jewelry), plants, shells, butterflies, taxidermized animals, and a large ichthyosaur skeleton.

In the same building, you'll find the Pannett Art Gallery , which displays multiple watercolor paintings of Whitby as it appeared in the Victorian times. New exhibits are added frequently, but the Staithes Group Collection is one of the gallery's star attractions.

A permanent display of works created by British Impressionist members of the Staithes Group of Artists, these pieces offer visitors a vivid trip through the past. You'll learn about the area's rural, domestic, and maritime lives in the late 18 th and early 20 th centuries.

Whitby Museum

• Address: Pannett Park, Whitby
• https://whitbymuseum.org.uk/

Pannett Art Gallery

• http://www.pannettartgallery.org/

St. Mary's Church was designated a Grade I listed building in February of 1954, but it was deemed an exceptional structure centuries before then. Built sometime around AD 1110, this unique place of worship was a Norman masterpiece. Today, it's a real mishmash of eras both inside and out, and one of the best places to visit in Whitby.

Over the years, the church was added to but never rebuilt. While the interior dates to the late 1700s, the outer tower and transepts can be traced back to the 12 th and 13 th centuries. Both the nave and transept have galleries designed in the 19 th century. Told you it's a hodgepodge!

Outside lies the eerie and beautiful churchyard used by Bram Stoker as yet another Dracula setting. Perched high atop the East Cliff, just behind the church, the graveyard holds much of the town's history in the form of tombstones belonging to sailors, townspeople, and the wealthy Cholmley family.

Insider's tip: See who'll be first to spot " Humpty Dumpty's" grave . The fictional egg is not actually buried here. This plot represents a canon that shared the egg's name.

Looking for the best view of Whitby's red-tiled roofs? You'll find it atop the sloping hills of picturesque Pannett Park, winner of a Green Park award. Previously voted the "Best Public Park in Yorkshire," this is the perfect place to visit picnic or relax while enjoying an incredible vista.

Lily Pool is utterly serene, and the Commemorative Garden is a wonderful place to pay homage to veterans everywhere. The garden is flanked by giant oak arches framing an impressive view of Whitby Abbey, and the words "We Will Remember Them" are carved into the wall.

The Jurassic Garden is a real treat, especially for young dinosaur fans. Spot a Gharial crocodile (well, a replica of its skeleton), see plants that resemble those from the Jurassic period, and get up close to fossils. Score extra points with a trip to the adorable Play Area .

Pannett Park is also home to the Whitby Museum and Pannett Art Gallery, so be sure to plan enough time to enjoy each of these attractions during your visit.

Official site: https://www.pannettpark.co.uk/

Midge Hall is a magical place located about five miles south of Whitby. It's hard to beat the beauty of this tiny stone cottage set beside a waterfall within a verdant forest. Add an adorable café on the grounds of the idyllic woodland and you'll never want to leave.

Whether you're hoping to sip coffee while enjoying the tranquil scenery, delight in a traditional cream tea (yum!), or partake in a light lunch (soup and a sandwich always hit the spot), your tastebuds won't be sorry you visited.

Once you've finished your tasty treats, explore the woods, build your own fox den from sticks, or run across the footbridge. Don't miss the Hermitage , a stone cave located a short walk from the waterfall.

Insider's tip: The tea garden is open from April through September and may be closed during bad weather, so call before you visit.

Address: Midge Hall, Whitby

Official site: https://www.fallingfossteagarden.co.uk/

It's hard to miss this remarkable bridge – it is painted red, after all. While not the most glamorous of England's bridges, this popular crossing demonstrates an incredible feat of engineering. Instead of moving up and down like a drawbridge, it swings; hence its name-the Whitby Swing Bridge.

Built in 1908 to connect the east and west sides of town, the Whitby Swing Bridge wasn't the first bridge in this location. It's believed there have been multiple crossings in this spot since the 1300s. The current bridge spans 75 feet across the River Esk.

Cars and pedestrians cross this bridge daily, but it's when people cannot cross that the bridge is at its best. Manually operated by an on-site attendant, the bridge swings open in multiple sections to allow tall vessels to pass through. It's fascinating to witness.

The bridge, which isn't wide enough for two cars to pass each other, only opens during the two hours before and after high water. Then, it opens on the hour or half hour when needed.

If you're looking for a stunning place to shed stress and gain serenity, Robin Hood's Bay is your best bet. Just under six miles south of Whitby, this natural wonderland is so beautiful, you'll gasp when it comes into view.

The bay itself is backed by a charming fishing village set on the North York Moor's Heritage Coast . It has all the things a tourist would hope for in a tiny town: adorable cafés, cute shops, and friendly locals who love to chat. It's by far one of the best places to visit for couples.

To get to the sand, you'll have to park at the top of a steep hill and walk down towards the strand. Along the way, you'll pass postcard-worthy cottages, boutique stores, and cobbled laneways oozing charm.

The only downside is the fact that you'll have to climb your way back up when you've had enough of the beach.

Official site: https://www.robin-hoods-bay.co.uk/

Twice a year (in April and October/November) the town of Whitby hosts one of the largest Goth events in the world. Whitby Goth Weekend was founded in 1994 to celebrate non-conformity and give a nudge to the town's Gothic history (we see you, Dracula).

Early on, the weekend-long festival was held in the Elsinore Pub. As it became bigger, large concerts became a major draw, as well as multiple Goth-themed events. One of the most popular things to do in Whitby, this weekend is so well attended that hotel rooms book up two years prior.

Today, the alternative festival still hosts concerts and incorporates the "Bizarre Bazaar," a large variety of quirky shops selling all things Goth and punk. This is a great place to pick up a unique gift or meet a man wearing a crow's mask. The costumes seen about town are amazing.

Official site: http://www.whitbygothweekend.co.uk/

All aboard the historic heritage steam train! A wonderful way to spend a day sightseeing, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway zips visitors through some of the country's most gorgeous scenery: along the 24 miles between Whitby and the quaint market town of Pickering . Riding along the tracks is one of the best things to do in Whitby.

You'll be transfixed by the breathtaking vistas rushing past your window as the steam train chugs its way through the North York Moors National Park . Pickering offers a delightful trip back in time. Its station evokes the 1930s, and the adorable village center is filled with charming shops and cafés.

Also along the route is the famous Goathland station. Used to represent Hogsmede in the first Harry Potter film, this pretty station has also appeared in television shows. It's full steam ahead on this historic railway as long as you climb aboard between April 4th and October 30th.

Insider's tip: Have a camera at the ready if you book your train tour during the summer. The fields burst into violet blooms of heather, which is a remarkable thing to witness.

Official site: https://www.nymr.co.uk/

Bet you've never walked between two giant whale jaw bones. Well, you can do just that in Whitby. Known, fittingly, as the Whalebone Arch, this massive archway is a replica of the bones originally set here to represent the whalers' successful journeys in the 18 th century. It's the most unmissable attraction in Whitby, literally.

The original arch was set upon the West Cliff in 1853 and frames an exceptional view of Whitby Abbey and the town's red-roofed cottages which lie directly across the bay. Standing 15 feet in height, it is hard to miss this iconic monument, which is actually the third of its kind.

The bones from the first structure were donated to the Whitby Archive Heritage Center . The second arch was made from a pair of 20-foot jaw bones from a 113-ton fin whale in 1963. It was donated to the town by Norway.

Today's iconic arch was set here in 2003 and consists of the massive jaw bones of a Bowhead whale, which was killed legally by natives of Alaska.

One of the most recognizable attractions in Whitby, this is a prime spot for photographs. We can almost guarantee you'll have to wait for others to snap their pics before you can jump in to use this magnificent arch as a backdrop.

Address: North Terrace, Whitby

Sandsend Beach is one of the best beaches in Yorkshire. It lies between Runwick Bay and Whitby in the tiny village of Sandsend and features clean, soft caramel sand backed by low, rugged cliffs. Walkers can get here in an hour by heading west along the heritage coastline from Whitby.

Expect nothing but sand at this picturesque beach. Three miles of it welcome beachgoers to enjoy its rural beauty. You'll likely have the area to yourself when visiting off-season. If you're hoping for a bit more space to run around, visit during low tide, when more sand is exposed.

This is a hot spot for surfers when the tide is in, and a wonderful place to swim, fish, and hunt for fossils in the summer. If you're lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, you can even catch sight of Whitby Abbey in the distance.

Insider's tip: A designated swim area is set up during the summer to ensure a safe experience.

Jet is a rare and stunning gem found along eight miles of the UK coast. A type of lignite (aka coal), this unique, shiny black gem is renowned throughout the region. At Heritage Jet, a small shop located behind a crooked doorway off Church Street, you'll find the last remaining Victorian jet workshop, which dates to 1867.

This family-run shop has been in business through three generations, selling hand-carved pieces featuring exceptional workmanship. Whether you're looking for a statement piece or an understated souvenir, you're sure to find it, and a whole lot of history, in this eclectic shop.

Master carver Hal Redvers-Jones has been restoring Victorian pieces and creating modern jewels for over 30 years. His creations are so stunning, you'll be tempted to buy more than one. From rings to earrings to brooches to pendants to charms, you're sure to find something striking to add to your jewelry collection.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Perfect Weekend Getaways in the UK : While you'll likely spend much of your time in big cities (we see you, London and Dublin ), the UK's most stunning beauty can be found outside these bustling metropolises. Check out these fantastic getaways from London or spend a weekend in these lovely English towns . Traveling with your significant other? Try one of these romantic weekend breaks in the UK .

Other Things to Do in the UK : It's not all rain and mushy peas in the UK. In fact, you're in for a treat no matter which UK country you visit - England , Scotland , Ireland , or Wales . You'll find castles peppered throughout the Irish countryside , glacial lakes spanning England's picturesque Lake District , and lovely sand beaches lining Scotland's shores.

More on England

• 1.1 By train
• 1.3 By road
• 2 Get around

Whitby is a picturesque town on the coast of North Yorkshire in England. It was the home of Captain Cook, but is more famous as the place where Bram Stoker's Dracula landed in England. It had a population of 13,000 in 2011; on fine summer weekends it's thronged with visitors, and on moonlit nights during the Goth Festivals it hosts an unknown number of the Undead.

• Visitor information from the Whitby Guide

Four Northern Rail trains wind through the moors daily from Middlesbrough , taking 90 min via Nunthorpe, Great Ayton, Castleton Moor and Grosmont to 54.485 -0.615 1 Whitby railway station . One or two of these start from Newcastle.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway run summer steam trains from Pickering via Levisham, Newtondale, Goathland and Grosmont. Most terminate at Grosmont, a couple per day continue into Whitby.

Coastliner 840 runs twice a day from Malton via Pickering and Goathland to Whitby. This bus no longer starts from Leeds: you first have to take the 843 which runs via York and Malton towards Scarborough.

Arriva Bus X93 runs hourly along the coast from Scarborough , taking one hour to Whitby and continuing inland via Guisborough to Middlesbrough . This service runs more frequently during the summer months, with some services numbered X94 taking a slightly different route on the outskirts of Scarborough.

Arriva Bus X4 runs every 30 min from Middlesbrough along the coast via Redcar, Saltburn-by-the-Sea , Loftus, Staithes, Runswick Bay and Sandsend to Whitby, two hours. It doesn't go through Guisborough.

Whitby bus station is next to the railway station.

From Scarborough and East Yorkshire, follow A171 along the coast. From Teesside and the North East, either take A171 or the slower coastal A174.

The roads to Whitby across the moors are scenic, but have sharp bends and steep gradients. In winter they are treacherous and may be closed. One popular route from the south is A64 past York to Malton then A169 north through Pickering and over the North York Moors. There's a 25% (1 in 4) plummet down into the village of Sleights just before reaching Whitby.

In summer all the routes are congested, and parking in town is difficult. Day-trippers should use the 54.48 -0.653 2 Park and Ride on Guisborough Road. This is open Apr-Oct daily from 8AM to around dusk. Your bus ticket covers the parking fee: single £1.70, return £2.50, family (2+2) £5.

For traffic and travel reports listen to Yorkshire Coast Radio [dead link] (103.1FM).

Whitby is a very compact town, and despite the hills is easy and rewarding to walk around. You can reach the Abbey via Green Lane if you don't care for the steps.

Buses (see "Get in") ply along the main road, which is a mile or so inland from the coast for the most part. So buses can get you to and from Sandsend and Robin Hoods Bay, but there's limited coast access otherwise.

• The 199 Steps lead from the head of Church Street, with views over the harbour rooftops, to emerge onto the plateau by St Mary's Church and the Abbey.
• St Mary's Church is the Anglican church at the head of the steps. The oldest parts are 12th century, but most of what you see is late 18th. The cliff edge is becoming so eroded that the church is at risk, and (in a suitably gothic touch) human remains from the graveyard are tumbling onto the properties below.

• Whitby Lifeboat Museum , Pier Road . Apr-Oct: daily 10AM-5PM; Nov Dec: daily 11AM-4PM, Jan-Mar: Sa Su 11AM-4PM . Display of the local lifeboat service, which used this double boathouse 1895–1957. The modern lifeboat station is on the opposite river bank on Church St, and can also be visited M-F 8AM-4PM. Free . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• The two lighthouses on east and west pier are really just harbour lights. The proper "Whitby High Lighthouse" is on the clifftop two miles east beyond Saltwick Bay and nowadays a private dwelling. This used to be the south light, which when lined up with the north light (now demolished) would show you the position of the hazardous Whitby Rock.
• Whitby Beach is mostly west of the river. It's sand and shingle, and stretches for a couple of miles to the aptly named Sandsend, where the cliffs resume and the highway leaves the coast. The busiest sections are at each end, where dogs are prohibited May-Sep; they may always use the middle section known as Upgang Whitby, and the Tate Hill beach east of the river. There's sometimes surf. Swim if you can brave the cold, but watch out for the brisk shoreline current. There are donkey rides in summer near town when the tide is out, but when it's in, the beach is covered.
• 54.4945 -0.7055 4 Mulgrave Castle has three incarnations. The ancient castle may go back to 6th century AD, then it was replaced by the Norman old castle, demolished in 1647 after the Civil War. The third is a mansion of circa 1700; it's private property but you're permitted to stroll the woodlands.

• 54.436 -0.725 5 Grosmont is the junction between the Middlesbrough - Whitby line and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. The NYMR steam trains from Pickering usually terminate here, with only one or two a day continuing into Whitby. You can see the trains and old station free without buying a ticket.
• 54.4345 -0.5344 6 Robin Hood's Bay is a scenic little fishing village five miles south of Whitby. Park at the edge of the village, don't take a vehicle down the narrow 1-in-3 lane to the harbour. There's a small museum open daily noon-4PM in summer, plus cafes and a bistro.
• 54.4 -0.492 7 Ravenscar is the resort that never was. Just north of it is the remains of a factory for alum, KAl(SO 4 ) 2 ·12H 2 O, used as a mordant or fixative for fabric dyes. The factory closed in 1871 when synthetic dyes and fixatives were developed. But never say dye, they decided to turn the area into a beach resort: roads, sewers, and railway station all appeared. Plus a few houses and amenities, while it slowly dawned on the developers that the lack of a beach was a bit of a handicap: it's quite a trek to a rocky shore, and there's no stretch of sand. So Ravenscar is mostly unbuilt, though Raven Hall Hotel is still open, see Sleep. Just south is a World War II radar station, preserved by the National Trust; you're free to explore the site, which may be muddy.

• Ghost walks start from the whalebone arch opposite the Royal Oak at 7:30PM, adult £5, child £3, no large black dogs permitted.
• Dracula Experience is a guided walk with street theatre and storytelling.
• Mary Ann Hepworth was the local lifeboat, in service 1938-74 and saving 201 lives. After retirement around the Broads and River Trent she was restored in 1989 and returned to Whitby. The boat sails from the bridge Apr-Oct daily 10AM to dusk on 30-min trips round the bay, £3.
• HM Bark Endeavour is a 40%-sized replica of the Endeavour used by Cook on his first expedition of 1768-71. In summer they potter round the bay for 30 min.
• Whale-watching trips [dead link] sail in late summer when whales follow the mackerel and herring along the coast. Trips are 4-8 hours, no children under 12 or dogs.
• Yorkshire Moors Railway [dead link] run steam trains from Pickering to Grosmont and Whitby, see Get in for details.
• Walk: The Cleveland Way follows a loop from Helmsley round the rim of the North York Moors through Osmotherley, Guisborough , Saltburn-by-the-Sea , Whitby, Scarborough and Filey . So the sections near Whitby all follow the clifftops and are obvious: northeast via Sandsend, Runswick Bay, Staithes and Loftus into Saltburn, southwest via Robin Hood's Bay, Ravenscar and Scalby into Scarborough. The whole trail is 110 miles.
• The Cinder Track is the old railway between Whitby and Scarborough. It's suitable for walking, cycling and horse-riding. It winds along the contours a mile or two inland so it has limited sea views but is level going.
• Whitby Golf Club is a mile northeast, overlooking the Upgang beach. The yellow tee course is 6106 yards, par 71.
• Whitby Goth Weekend is a music festival with much black lipstick held on Halloween and late April each year.
• Traction Engine Rally [dead link] is held at the end of July by the Abbey.

• Coop Food by the railway station is open M-Sa 7AM-10PM, Su 10AM-4PM.
• The main retail park is south edge of town on A171. There's an Aldi, and a Sainsbury's with a filling station.
• The Quayside , 7 Pier Road YO21 3PU , ☏ +44 1947 825346 . Su-Th 11AM-3PM, F Sa 11AM-7PM . Great views, great decor and reliably good food. ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Fisherman's Wife , Khyber Pass YO21 3PZ , ☏ +44 1947 603500 . M-Sa 11AM-8PM, Su 11:30AM-6PM . Popular spot for seafood, you may have to wait. ( updated May 2023 )
• Duke of York , 124 Church Street YO22 4DE ( foot of abbey steps ). Food daily noon-9PM . Pub, good food and accommodation. ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Humble Pie 'n' Mash , 163 Church Street YO22 4AS ( east end of bridge ), ☏ +44 1947 606444 . Daily noon-8PM . Long-standing traditional pie shop, three tables to eat in, most folk take away. ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Whitby is famous for its kippers. You can see the smokery at Fortune's , along past the abbey steps on Henrietta Street.
• Sandside Cafe is northwest near the end of the beach. They do good light bites, open daily 9AM-5:30PM.
• Fish Cottage is 100 yards further on. Dogs welcome in the outdoor area. It's open daily noon-9PM.
• The main strip of pubs (many with rooms) is on the west river bank: The Angel (JD Wetherspoon), Black Swan, Golden Lion, Jolly Sailors, Star Inn, Ship Inn and Pier Inn.
• A short block back from the river is another strip, with The Granby, Arch and Abbey, Elsinore, Little Angel, and Whitby Way.
• Those east bank of the river are Middle Earth Tavern, The Endeavour, Dolphin Hotel, Black Horse Inn and Abbey Wharf.
• 54.482 -0.607 1 Folly Gardens Campsite on Green Lane is open Mar-Oct. Tents £15-20, hook-ups £25. This is the only campsite near town: there are half a dozen other caravan sites but they have no camping.
• YHA Whitby [dead link] is in a splendid mansion next to the Abbey, with dorms and private rooms.
• B&Bs are mostly along the street south from Pannett Park. They include Autumn Leaves , Rylstone Mere , Dillons , The Willows , Arundel House , Overdale , Hill Crest , Manor View and Heathfield [dead link] .
• 54.473 -0.603 2 Penny Hedge is a Marston's Inn with rooms on A171 on the south edge of town by the retail park.
• Self-catering is the main accommodation in and around Whitby. The many offerings include Berry Banks Cottage (one double, one twin and one bunk bedroom), Rowan Cottage in Sleights (sleeps six); Shoreline Cottages and River Esk Apartments manage a portfolio.
• Marine Hotel , 13 Marine Parade, Whitby YO21 3PR , ☏ +44 1947 605022 . Charming small hotel with 4 rooms on riverside. The sea food gets great reviews. B&B double £170 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 54.4862 -0.6237 3 White Yard Cottage , 19 Springvale, Whitby YO21 1JG , ☏ +44 7928 626 025 . Dog-friendly self-catering holiday cottage, sleeps 5, two dogs at no extra cost. Enclosed rear garden. 3 nights minimum, weeks are Sat to Sat. £600 / week . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Raven Hall Hotel , Ravenscar YO13 0ET ( midway between Whitby and Scarborough ), ☏ +44 1723 870353 . This was built as a mansion in 1774, and converted into a hotel during the 1890s attempt to transmute Ravenscar into a beach resort, see above. It's now a mid-price place with indoor pool, tennis courts, fitness suite and 9-hole golf course. B&B double £150 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 54.437 -0.774 4 Broom House , Broom House Lane, Egton Bridge YO21 1XD , ☏ +44 7423 636783 . Delightful B&B up the Esk valley in North York Moors. Open Mar-Nov, no dogs. B&B double £90 . ( updated Jun 2020 )

Whitby and its approach roads have a good mobile and 4G signal from all UK carriers. As of July 2022, 5G has not reached this area.

• Inland are the North York Moors . Take the steam train to Pickering for a well-preserved Norman castle, and medieval church wall paintings that scandalised the vicar.
• North the moors reach the coast as cliffs up to Saltburn-by-the-Sea , then the terrain becomes low-lying and industrial around Redcar.
• South the cliffs stretch to Scarborough . The last great headland is Flamborough Head between Filey and Bridlington .

• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default size
• Has map markers
• Articles with dead external links
• See listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has Geo parameter
• North Yorkshire
• All destination articles
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Whitby Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 29, 2023

Our  Whitby Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful English seaside town. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Whitby!

• Plan your visit to Whitby

The popular seaside town of Whitby is located on the east coast of England, in the scenic county of North Yorkshire. Its beautiful coastline, historic streets with quirky shops and charming picturesque harbour area make this a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

Attractions include the ruins of the historic Whitby Abbey which was founded in the 7th century and is considered to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula overlook the town and harbour. 

Whitby also has a rich fishing heritage with a vast history of commercial fishing. Excellent seafood options abound in the town with one highly recommended option the famous Magpie Cafe for its award-winning traditional fish and chips. There are a multitude of restaurants and cafes to choose from though so if you miss out on a reservation at the Magpie don’t despair.

Perhaps one of Whitby’s most famous residents was the famous navigator and explorer, Captain James Cook who was born in the town. The notable attractions dedicated to Captain Cook are the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, which celebrates his life and achievements and the Whitby Museum, which showcases the area’s natural history and cultural heritage.

What you will find in this complete Whitby Travel Guide

When is the best time of year to visit Whitby?

How many days do you need in or around whitby, how do you get around whitby and surrounding areas, what is the best way to travel to whitby from london, attractions, places to visit & things to do in whitby, walking tours of whitby, accommodation in whitby.

• Where to eat in Whitby

Books set in Whitby

Enjoy your visit to whitby, whitby travel guide – visiting whitby faq’s.

The best time to visit is really whenever you want to! Whitby represents an all-year-round attraction for families and couples alike with many and varying interests.

Summer visits are always popular, June-August when the weather is generally warmer and sunnier.  This is the ideal time for enjoying the beach and leisurely exploring the town during the longer daylight hours. However, it is also the busiest time, with a high concentration of tourists and of course higher prices for accommodation.

Spring and Autumn in the UK (March-May and September-November) also attract many visitors outside the summer visitors.  These are great times to visit with often quieter streets and attractions. The British weather can be a bit more unpredictable but the temperature can still be pleasant on the best days. Accommodation can also be cheaper this time of the year.

The winter months, December-February though much colder, windier and often wetter still attract many visitors. The town is decorated with festive lights and there are several events taking place, including the Whitby Goth Weekend and the Christmas Festival. Accommodation cost is also at its lowest.

All year round Whitby has its own unique charm and there’s always something to enjoy in this beautiful seaside town.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

A quick visit for a day trip usually involves a visit to the historic Abbey ruins and sampling some fish and chips whatever the time of year! A walk along the beach and harbour area and shops are popular if the weather is fine.

For a more leisurely visit a 2 or 3 day stay like a weekend you can explore more of the town and surroundings including the local streets and shops. This could include the Captain Cook Memorial Museum and also some of the area’s beautiful scenery.

Also, an option would be the Whitby sightseeing hop-on/off bus.

For a longer visit, such as a week or so, you can really immerse yourself in the local culture and history. You can take day trips to nearby attractions such as the North York Moors National Park, the seaside towns of Scarborough and Filey, and the historic city of York .

Whitby is a relatively small town, so walking around is quite easy even though the town is relatively hilly with steps connecting different parts of the town. Walking is a great way to explore Whitby’s historic streets, alleys, and landmarks.

• Sightseeing Bus

Whitby Sightseeing bus, the Whitby Town Tour, offers visitors a guided tour of the town’s most popular landmarks and attractions with audio commentaries available to learn about the town’s history and culture.  The tour takes about an hour and operates from April to late September. Tickets available on the day or online and multiple languages are catered for.

This is a hop-on-hop-off service taking around 1 hour and a great way to see the town’s highlights without having to walk long distances. Also takes visitors to the Abbey ruins.

• Whitby Buses

Buses around Whitby include the reasonably priced Arriva bus services and the Coastliner Bus.  Day/week tickets are available or single/return tickets depending on choice.

• Public transport 

Visitors without a car to explore the beautiful surrounding areas are possible and alternate options are available.

A regular bus service connects Whitby with nearby villages, towns, and cities. The main bus station is located in the town centre, and you can purchase tickets at the station or online.

Whitby has a train station located in the town centre for national rail services, with regular services to nearby towns and cities.  

• North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR)

The Heritage NYMR runs through the North York Moors national park with a station at Whitby.  This is a great excursion from Whitby or an alternate way to arrive in Whitby catching the service at the station at Pickering.

Refer to the NTMR website for up-to-date information for timetables and standard or first-class ticket travel for single or return journeys.

🚆 By train

Whitby has a train station located in the town centre for national rail services, with regular services to nearby towns and cities such as York and further afield to London. Train travel can be a great way to explore the area’s scenic countryside. The Esk Valley Line runs through to Middlesborough.

• Take the train from London Kings Cross Railway Station via the East Coast Main (Train) to York or Darlington then on to a branch line. The overall trip takes around 5 hours to reach Whitby with a train change or changes depending on the service taken.
• Train tickets from London and York

The price of tickets is variable depending on the day/time of travel and type of ticket purchased and how soon in advance of travel. National railcards options and rail passes are also available.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

🚗 By car (road trip option)

• Around 5 hours drive between London and Whitby. Depending on the London start location and stop points in between and the route taken.
• Takes approximately 4 hours to drive the 200 miles. 
• Alternatively, take the train to York and hire a car from there and drive the incredibly scenic route.

National Express coaches from London Victoria coach station take around 8 hours 40 minutes with a change of coach at Leeds.  The cost is around £23 per person.

Alternatively, take the train to York and catch the Coach from York via Leeds to Whitby.

There is much to see and do around Whitby all year round including:

• Whitby Abbey: Ruins of a 7th-century monastery with stunning views of the town and coastline. It is run by English Heritage.
• Captain Cook Memorial Museum: A history museum dedicated to the life and voyages of famous explorer Captain Cook.  The house where James Cook was apprenticed in 1746.
• Whitby Harbour: Picturesque harbour with fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and scenic views of the town and abbey.
• St. Mary’s Church: Historic church which dates from around 1110 with connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula as a possible inspiration. Also stunning views from the churchyard.
• Whitby Beach:   A beautiful wide, sandy beach with colourful beach huts and a great view of the abbey and town.
• The 199 Steps:   The well-known church steps, steep staircase leading up to the abbey, with stunning views of the town and coastline.
• Whitby Museum: A museum with exhibits on local history, fishing, and the town’s connections to Captain Cook and Dracula.
• North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR): A heritage steam railway that runs from Whitby to Pickering, passing through the stunning Yorkshire Moors. (For Harry Potter fans,  Goathland station was also the station used as the setting for the fictional Hogsmeade Station )
• The Whalebone Arch: A distinctive arch made from replica jawbones of a whale (the original was erected in 1853), located at North Terrace.  Symbolises the town’s association with its whaling history.
• Whitby Goth Weekend (WGW) : A popular twice-yearly festival celebrating goth culture, fashion, and music in the town’s historic venues and streets.
• Whitby Pavilion: An entertainment venue with a theatre, cinema, and concert hall, hosting various art events throughout the year.
• Robin Hood’s Bay : A charming village 6 miles south of Whitby, with narrow steep streets, historic cottages, and stunning views of the coast. 
• Fortunes Kippers:   Traditional Whitby smokehouse kippers, family-run business since 1872.  Award-winning, locally famous and beyond for high-quality kippers. A must-try!

Tickets, tours and experiences in Whitby

There are several excellent walking tours available in Whitby with a variety of themes to choose from. 

• Take a tour of Whitby’s most haunted sites including a journey through the locations mentioned in Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. The walk includes the church 199 steps to the churchyard, Abbey and other places around Whitby.
• This guided tour takes you around Whitby’s old town’s charming streets as you listen to legends and local folklore stories.
• Ghost and Dracula Walk
• Whitby Town Walking Tours: With Voicemap
• Guided Distillery Tour with Gin Tasting – G o behind the scenes to discover how artisan gin is distilled on this guided tour of a gin distillery in Whitby. See the copper still, learn about the history of gin, and sample award-winning spirits.
• Audio Guide with Lifetime App Access – Discover the legends and landmarks of Whitby at your own pace on an audio tour of the historic town. Learn about sites like Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Whitby Abbey, and the Endeavor Experience.

There is every kind of accommodation option available in Whitby and the surrounding areas to suit all ages, budgets and preferences.

These include budget and luxury hotels with family-friendly options and bed & breakfasts.  Also on offer are self-catering and camping accommodation alternatives if you choose.

• Dillons of Whitby ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• The Resolution Hotel ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Raithwaite Sandsend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Sneaton Castle ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Duke of York
• The Station Inn Whitby

More special stays – Accommodation Guide for England

W here to eat in Whitby

Whitby is well-known in the Uk and overseas for its seafood, especially its fresh fish and chips of which there is a huge number of places to sample the food.

There are also many other great places to eat in the town, not just for fish and chips. 

Here are some of the best and most famous:

• The Magpie Cafe:   Possibly the most well-known, this award-winning cafe is famous for its fresh fish and chips. The Magpie Cafe is located in a historic building by the harbour and has a great view of the sea. At peak times it is a good idea to book.
• The Moon and Sixpence: This is a popular restaurant in a great location and bar in the heart of Whitby, serving a range of dishes made with fresh local produce. The Moon and Sixpence has a lively atmosphere and is a great place for a cocktail or a meal.
• The White Horse and Griffin: This well-situated historic hotel also has a popular restaurant serving modern seafood British cuisine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and changes seasonally.
• The Marine: This is a welcoming contemporary seafood restaurant located in a modern building by the harbour. The Marine serves a range of seafood dishes as well as meat and vegetarian options .
• The Quayside: This is a family-run restaurant located on Pier Road, overlooking the harbour. The Quayside serves fresh seafood as well as meat and vegetarian dishes, and has a children’s menu. Try the homemade gelato for a treat!
• The Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash Shop: This is a traditional 16th Century pie and mash shop located on Church Street. The Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash Shop serves homemade pies, daily baked on the premises,  and other classic British dishes including vegetarian options. 
• Trenchers Restaurant: This is a family-run seafood restaurant located on New Quay Road. Trenchers Restaurant serves a range of fresh seafood dishes, including fish and chips, as well as meat and vegetarian options.
• Abbey Wharf: This is a popular restaurant and bar with a panoramic view located in a converted warehouse by the harbour. Abbey Wharf serves a range of dishes made with local ingredients, including fresh seafood.  Dog friendly and also has live entertainment.
• The Fisherman’s Wife: This is a traditional fish and chip shop well located on Khyber Pass near the whalebone arch. The Fisherman’s Wife serves fresh fish, chips, and other classic British dishes.
• Royal Fisheries: This is another popular fish and chip shop located on Baxtergate. Royal Fisheries serves fresh fish, chips, and other classic British dishes and is known for its friendly service.
• The Duke of York:  This cosy Harbour view pub is an excellent restaurant if you want something more traditional with the atmosphere of a good old-fashioned British pub. They have a wide range of ales and ciders that you can sample as you take a look at the range of memorabilia and historical items on the walls to enjoy.

Whitby has either been the inspiration or the setting for numerous books, including:

• Dracula by Bram Stoker – Perhaps the most famous is this gothic horror novel featuring Whitby in several scenes. These include the arrival of the eponymous vampire in the form of a black dog.
• The Whitby Witches by Robin Jarvis – This children’s book is set in Whitby and tells the story of three children who uncover a plot by a group of witches to summon an ancient evil.
• The Edge of Dark by Pamela Hartshorne – This historical fiction novel is set in both modern-day and 16th-century Whitby, and follows the story of a woman who discovers a link to her ancestors during a visit to the town.
• The Secret of Crickley Hall by James Herbert – This horror novel features several scenes set in Whitby, where the main character tries to uncover the dark secrets of a haunted house.
• The Whitby Murders by J.R. Ellis – This mystery novel is set in modern-day Whitby where a detective investigates a series of murders connected to the town’s history and legends.
• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman – This children’s fantasy novel features several scenes set in a fictionalised version of Whitby, where a boy named Bod, encounters ghosts and other supernatural beings.
• Whitby Vampyrrhic by Simon Clark – This horror novel is set in Whitby and features a group of vampires who prey on the town’s residents.
• Widdershins by Helen Steadman – This historical fiction novel is set in 17th-century Whitby and tells the story of a woman accused of witchcraft.

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Whitby . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK
• Literary England
• 12 Historical Destinations to Visit in England
• 19 Best Things to Do in Yorkshire
• Podcast Episode #3 – Insider Guide to York
• Podcast Episode #17 – Best day trips from York

13 Must-Visit Places In Whitby

We’ve compiled a list of must-visit places in Whitby to inspire your next visit.

There is so much to see and do in Whitby . Deciding where to explore on your trip can be tricky. This seaside town has a rich history and many fantastic places to visit. Here’s our list of must-visit places in Whitby.

Here are 13 must-visit places in Whitby

1. whitby abbey.

Whitby Abbey is one of the first built in England. It fell victim to Henry VIII’s reign. Several ghosts haunt the Abbey, and St Hilda is said to haunt her grounds still.

FREE Whitby Mini-Guide

" get the best from your stay in whitby." - everything you need to know about whitby into a free mini-guide.

The Abbey ruins are spectacular and are a great adventure for families to go on. Inside the old Cholmley home is a small museum with relics found by archaeologists from around the Abbey. As you walk around the grounds, there are artist’s impressions of what the Abbey would have looked like.

Location: Abbey Lane, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO22 4JT

Learn more about Whitby Abbey here.

2. St Mary’s Churchyard

St. Mary’s Churchyard, high on the East Cliff, is Whitby’s Parish Church and was founded in 1110. Some parts date back to Norman times, the early 12th Century. It has been modified and extended over the centuries without being completely rebuilt.

The lovely interior is essentially 18th Century and an excellent example of pre-Victorian furnishing. That interior contrasts dramatically with the fortress-like exterior, which fits well with the North Sea setting. The location of the Church is close to Whitby Abbey, and both receive a significant number of visitors each year.

You get a stunning view of the harbour from the benches behind the Church. Perfect for a quick break to take in the scenery.

Location: Abbey Plain, Whitby YO22 4JR

Learn more about St Mary’s Churchyard here.

3. 199 Steps

Not only is Whitby Abbey right next door to St Mary’s Church, but it also sits on top of the 199 Steps. The origin of the steps is often disputed; the first record of the steps was in 1340. However, it is widely believed that St Hilda would have used the tiring steps to test her followers hundreds of years before,

They are an essential part of Whitby’s history. In the 19th century, when St Mary’s Church was open for burials, many corpses were carried up the steps in their coffin. When you walk up the steps, you will notice a couple of benches, and if you think they were made for sitting, then you are wrong. The benches were placed there so pallbearers could place the coffin on the bench and rest.

Location: 199 Steps, Whitby YO22 4DF

Learn more about the 199 Steps here.

4. Fortunes Smokehouse and Shop

Down from 199 steps, you will find the Fortunes Smokehouse and shop famous worldwide for its excellent quality kippers. The smokehouse is a must-visit place when you come to Whitby. Buy beautifully smoked kippers and meet with the lovely owners.

In 1872, William Fortune founded the now historical and only Whitby smokehouse. It has since been passed down through the Fortune family and is in its sixth generation! Don’t worry if you think it’ll be challenging to find; the gorgeous smell of the smoked kippers will lead you straight to it.

Location: 22 Henrietta St, Whitby, YO22 4DW

Learn more about Fortunes Smokehouse and Shop here.

5. W. Hamond, the Original Whitby Jet Shop

If you’re looking to get yourself some souvenirs from Whitby, then there is no better treat than some famous Whitby Jet.

If you want some history with your jet, head down to W. Hammond, the original Whitby Jet shop established in 1860. The skilled craftsmen continue to make the finest quality jewellery some 150 years later, and the customers keep coming to buy a little bit of Whitby’s history.

Whitby Jet is found along the cliffs of Whitby. It is from the early Jurassic period and around 182 million years old! Its famous deep black colour coined “Jet black” and “As black as jet”.

Location: 112 Church Street, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO22 4DE

Learn more about Whitby Jet here.

6. Falling Foss Tea Garden and Waterfall

You’ll need a car to get to this one as it is just outside Whitby, but it’s worth the short drive. The Falling Foss tea garden is beside a small cottage on top of Falling Foss’s beautiful waterfall.

Not only is the charming tea garden somewhere for you to relax, but the grounds are also gorgeous to walk around; the gardens are a favourite for children as their imaginations go wild whilst they run around the enchanting place, though saying this Falling Foss is suitable for any age.

The tea room is only open seasonally between April and September, but the woodlands are available to walk in all year round.

Location: Falling Foss Tea Garden, Midge Hall, Whitby, YO22 5JD

7. Ruswarp Pleasure Boats

Established in 1874, people have been coming to row on the idyllic River Esk for over a century. Ruswarp Riverside Cafe, Ruswarp Miniature Railway, and Chainbridge Riverside Retreats are just 2 miles from Whitby!

Ruswarp Pleasure Boats is a great place to hire a canoe, kayak, or rowing boat and spend some time relaxing or quality time with family. Take a camera to photograph the swans and ducks. This is the only river in Yorkshire where you can find salmon.

Location: The Carrs, Ruswarp, Whitby, YO21 1RL

8. Whitby Museum and Pannet Park

Whitby Museum is an independent museum bursting with exciting treasures. Here you can explore vast collections of local fossils, natural history, model ships, carved jet, toys, costumes, and social history.

There are artefacts of the famous whaling family, the Scoresbys, and the explorer Captain Cook . The museum has extended its scope to include items of interest from the last hundred years. The ‘ Hand of Glory ‘ is one such artefact. There is something for all ages in their extensive collections.

The park is home to the Whitby Museum and Pannett Art Gallery . Pannett Park is an oasis of calm in the heart of Whitby. This expertly planted garden has an all-year-round planting scheme with a state-of-the-art play area, a commemorative garden, a community garden, a Jurassic garden, and a lily pool.

Location: Pannett Park, Whitby YO21 1RE

Learn more about Whitby Museums here.

9. RNLI Whitby Lifeboat Museum

Since 1802, lifeboats crewed by the people of Whitby have been helping those in trouble at sea. Whitby Lifeboat Museum celebrates the long and proud history of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in Whitby.

36 RNLI Medals for Gallantry have been awarded to courageous crew members. The collection of medals, paintings, and objects from rescues and wrecks are housed in the original boathouse that served from 1895 –1957.

The museum is located at the end of Pier Road. Public car parking is available in town.

Location: Pier Rd, Whitby, YO21 3PU

Learn more about the RNLI Whitby Lifeboat Museum here.

10. Staithes 

Staithes is a traditional fishing village on the Yorkshire Coast. It boasts wonderfully rugged coastlines, villages, and towns with character and rich maritime heritage.

The North Yorkshire seaside town of Staithes is just 10 miles from Whitby. It embodies many of the reasons why seaside towns hold such appeal. Once one of the busiest fishing ports on the North East coast, Staithes boasts a long, proud history as the one-time home of famous Royal Navy captain and explorer Captain James Cook.

There is so much to do in Staithes while visiting Whitby. It’s worth a trip. Art and history fans will love strolling through the pretty town’s narrow cobbled streets and visiting the elegant Staithes Art Gallery .

Location: Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 5AD

Learn more about Staithes here.

11. Robin Hood’s Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay is situated within the North York Moors National Park . It is an ideal base for walking, hiking, cycling, and exploring the area’s history. It is also not far from the historic town of Whitby and the fabulous Scarborough .

Fishing and farming were the main trades here. Whole families worked in the fishing industry, either out in the open sea or taking the catch to market. However, smuggling was a rife tradition too. Boats from the continent brought contraband to their shore and distributed it to the land contacts.

Whether you want to relax, get active, explore, or do a bit of all three, this is the ideal location. It has plenty of places to stay, things to do , restaurants and pubs , and a lot of history.

Location: Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitby YO22 4SN

Learn more about Robin Hood’s Bay here.

12. Sandsend

The village of Sandsend is just a short distance from the town of Whitby. Walkers and hikers can combine their love of exercise and fresh air with some exploration. The Sandsend Trail is just one of the possibilities.

Sandsend is full of historical findings, such as fossils and other ancient artefacts. Archaeologists and palaeontologists from all over the world scope through this area regularly throughout the year as part of their jobs, but you never know what you might find with a sharp eye and a little patience while you are enjoying your holiday.

Location: Sandsend, Whitby YO21 3SZ

Learn more about Sandsend here.

13. Whitby Beaches

One of the best places for a little seaside fun is Whitby. However, Whitby has so many fantastic beaches available, so which one should you pick?

So here’s a quick rundown of Beaches in Whitby.

We hope we have inspired you and you’re ready to explore lovely Whitby. Have we missed out on your favourite place to visit? You can let us know your must-visit places in Whitby in the comments.

Related Posts

1 thought on “13 Must-Visit Places In Whitby”

Iv been to Whitby many times with my partner and granddaughter, an we love it there, we stayed in egton bridge, it a beautiful location and it our base, we stayed in Broomhouse there. It’s easy to get to Whitby and staiths , Robin hoods bay, and saltburn by the sea, we visited the old Abby, and those steps , the history is wonderful, there’s something for everyone, even steam enthusiastic people, it was lovely to see some of the steam engines down at Whitby station. I’m really hoping to get back up there soon, we miss being there, it’s been two years since we last visited, my granddaughter loves it, she asks when are we going back to Whitby and salt burn.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Download your FREE Whitby Mini-Guide

" Get the best from your stay in Whitby."  - Everything you need to know about Whitby into a  free mini-guide - Instant access!

Things To do in whitby

Parking in whitby

Whitby Walks

Whitby Beaches

Whitby Restaurants

Whitby Canvases

Best Selling products

Account Login

Whitby Pubs

Whitby Fish & Chips

Hidden Gems

Places To Visit

Whitby Prints

Return & Refund Policy

Whitby Hotels

Whitby Bed & Breakfasts

Whitby Holiday Cottages

Whitby Caravan Parks

Whitby Camping

Whitby Accommodation

Shipping Information

About This site

Mailing List

Whitby Gift Shop

Bottle Lamps

The Whitby Guide is an independent online travel guide and gift shop. We are dedicated to bringing you the best local information and products from the North Yorkshire Coast.

© 2024 The Whitby Guide. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy | Sitemap | This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Streetmaps - Whitby

Street map of whitby town centre.

Detailed street map of Whitby town centre, North Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom.

Whitby North Yorkshire Town Centre Map

Street Map of Whitby Town Centre: Detailed street map for Whitby town centre in North Yorkshire. Large and clear map of Whitby, North Yorkshire , England, UK.

• Google Map Whitby Town Centre, North Yorks.
• Zoom in on Whitby Town Centre, North Yorks.
• Pan Around the Town Centre of Whitby.
• View Satellite Map Whitby, UK.
• Whitby Terrain Map.
• Get Google Street View for Whitby*.
• View Whitby in Google Earth.
• Road Map Whitby, United Kingdom.
• Town Centre Map of Whitby, North Yorkshire.
• Printable Street Map of Central Whitby, England.
• Easy to Use, Easy to Print Whitby Map.
• Find Parks, Woods & Green Areas in Whitby Area.
• Find Churches, Museums & Attractions in Whitby Area.

Things you can see on this Whitby street map:

• Whitby Railway Station (Train Station).
• Whitby Hospital.
• The River Esk.
• West Cliff.
• Captain Cook Memorial Museum.

Zoom out one step (-) to see:

• Larpool Wood.
• Saltwick Bay.
• Castle Park.
• High Stakesby.
• Ruswarp Train Station.

Whitby Bus Station is not shown on the map, but is located in Station Square/Victoria Square.

* To get a Google street view of Whitby follow the "View on Google Maps" link, left click and hold the yellow "pegman", drag him to the Whitby street you wish to view, in a few seconds you will get your Whitby street view. In this view of Whitby you can also see: Whitby Station, the Florence Guest House Whitby, the Magpie Fish & Chip Shop, Whitby Harbour Office, Bagdale Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Whitby Pavilion Theatre, Whitby Police Station, Whitby Tourist Information Centre, the Little Angel Pub, Whitby Evangelical Church, the Marine Hotel, St Hilda's Catholic Church, Whitby Library, Passage to India Restaurant, and more Whitby hotels, pubs, facilities, and attractions in Whitby center and the Whitby area.

Postcode For Whitby Town Centre North Yorkshire: YO21

More North Yorks Town Centre Maps: Scarborough - Filey - Grangetown - Yarm - Stokesley - Haxby

North Yorkshire Cities: York - Ripon

North Yorkshire Villages: Robin Hood's Bay - Sherburn-in-Elmet - Hunmanby

Printable Maps of UK Towns and Villages.

Accommodation, Information, Tourist Attractions, Events

Whitby Tourist Information Centre

Tourist Information Whitby

Tourist Information Centre

Address: Langborne Road, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO21 1YN

Opening Hours: Monday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Whitby Cottages

Whitby Hotels

Whitby Guest Houses

Yorkshire Coastal Places of Interest

Recent posts.

• Secrets Robin Hoods Bay
• The Lansbury
• The Full English Guest House
• The Forge Aislaby
• The Esplanade
• The Downe Arms
• Storrbeck Guest House
• Sneaton Castle Centre
• Sherwood Glen Guest House
• Seacrest Guesthouse

Privacy Overview

• Corrections

3 Beautiful Places in the North of England Tourists Tend to Neglect

The south of England attracts tourism with little effort. The North, on the other hand, hasn’t quite managed to generate the same global appeal.

The south of England has never really been forced to work very hard to appeal to tourists. Most guests don’t need to be persuaded to visit Stonehenge , get a photograph in front of Westminster Abbey, or eat delicious southern cuisine such as stargazy pie. (Ok, perhaps the last one is suited to an acquired taste and not actually appealing to the majority.) The perks of the South are no secret. Nevertheless, there’s also a great deal of fun to be had in the north. The three places that make up this list are well worth anybody’s time.

3. Alnwick  

Alnwick, the northernmost entry on the list, is a petit market town situated in Northumberland, merely an hour’s drive from the Scottish border. Although compact in size, this town is brimming with locations that have somewhat of a mythical aura. There are sections of Alnwick whereupon it almost feels as though you’re treading the grounds of a fantasy novel. Thus, it’s no coincidence that Alnwick’s castle was selected to represent Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter films. We’re sure fans of the franchise will be excited to hear that visitors are offered daily tours, which include interesting anecdotes regarding the site’s link to the movies.

The history of Alnwick Castle does, of course, extend a great deal further than the story of “The Boy Who Lived” and has played a hugely significant role during past conflicts between British nations. It was originally built to protect the border and served its purpose. King of Scotland, William I , initially attacked the castle in 1173 and then tried again the following year. He was unsuccessful on both occasions and captured during his second attempt.

The inside of the castle is a mesmerizing display of affluence. In the 1850s, Algernon Percy, the 4th Duke of Northumberland, decided a bit of renovation was in order. He hired English architect Anthony Salvin and Italian architect Luigi Canini to create his dream home. This resulted in an upper guard chamber, lower guard chamber, library, drawing room, dining room, and china gallery, each unique in appearance to the last.

Get the latest articles delivered to your inbox

Please check your inbox to activate your subscription.

It should be noted, however, that the castle is only open to the public between March and October since Ralph Percy, the 12th Duke of Northumberland, and his family live there through the winter period. So, be sure to time your trip carefully to avoid disappointment.

To reinforce the theory that Alnwick contains all the hallmarks of a fictional fantasy world, it is important to note that Britain’s deadliest garden is also located within the town. Poison Garden, which can be found inside Alnwick Garden, houses around 100 toxic, intoxicated, and narcotic plants. It’ll be obvious when you’ve reached the entrance, given that the gate displays a skull and crossbones with the words “These Plants Can Kill.” The garden is open to the public, and we certainly encourage everyone to enter, but it’s probably best to behave sensibly once inside.

No magical visit to Alnwick would be complete without having a meal at The Treehouse Restaurant . It’s located in the treetops and built via a combination of English and Scots pine, Scandinavian redwood, and Canadian cedar. It’s quirky and cozy, and the traditional British food on offer is lovely. So, take a seat by a burning log fire, devour some classic local grub, and be sure to look at the cocktail menu since it pays tribute to the Duchess of Northumberland.

Situated in North Yorkshire along the coastline, Whitby is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in the whole of the UK. It’s steeped in history and easy to navigate, ensuring visitors are always within arm’s reach of an interesting setting. A few popular attractions we’d recommend prioritizing are Whitby Abbey , the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, and taking a stroll along West Cliff Beach (providing the British weather opts to be forgiving during your visit).

In addition, the town is fantastically spooky and has been since 1897. Bram Stoker, the brains behind the novel Dracula , selected to reside in Whitby while writing his world-famous book due to its gothic appearance. Since then, the town’s association with the vampire has seemingly strengthened from year to year. To this extent, Whitby now hosts two official Goth Weekends every year. The event is centered around a music festival and serves as a huge tribute to Gothic culture. Should you find yourself in the seaside town amid the celebrations, you’re guaranteed to see a variety of interesting characters roaming the streets.

There are plenty of locations worth visiting, too, if you want to take in a little more of what inspired Dracula . This includes St. Mary’s Church, a beautiful cliffside parish overlooking the harbor. Stroker chose Mr. Swales’ name, a character within the story who predicted terrible things on the horizon, from a tombstone written in the church’s accompanying graveyard. Oddly enough, it’s alleged that Humpty Dumpty’s gravestone can also be found within the same cemetery. He may or may not be real, may or may not be an egg, and may or may not be buried in Whitby. Thus, you may or may not choose to believe he’s under the ground near Mr. Swales. Either way, there’s seemingly no way to verify the rumor. The stone in question is downward-facing, oval-shaped, and has a faded inscription that is no longer readable.

While there are alternative methods for reaching St. Mary’s Church and its surrounding area, the most recommended route is via trudging up Whitby’s iconic 199 steps. This route was previously used as a way to test the faith of those who intended to worship. It should also be noted that the steps can become steep in parts, so it’s best to take your time at the more challenging points.

Finally, if you’re still yet to be convinced by Whitby, we truly believe the seaside town has some of the best fish and chips restaurants in the world, which can be tried at the Magpie Cafe . However, the eatery’s great food isn’t a secret to locals. So, you may be forced to queue for a little while, but the meal will definitely be worth the wait.

Leeds is one of the largest cities in England and has a wide range of attractions that should generate a lot more attention. Yet, this Yorkshire city is typically overlooked by tourists. York, Manchester, and Liverpool are generally the go-to picks for visitors brave enough to venture into the country’s northern half. However, Leeds certainly merits at least a little more consideration from travelers.

The vibrant city center, which will likely be your entry point should you arrive via public transport, nicely blends modern trends with historical architecture. We’d particularly encourage visitors to wander around The Corn Exchange, a charming spherical Victorian building that contains outer rings of quirky shops and a pleasantly peaceful dining area at its center.

Another favorite among shoppers is the vintage arcades. These are a series of 19th-century beautifully decorated archways with a mixture of luxurious designer shops and cool independent retailers. The medieval-inspired structures within the Country Arcade and Thorton’s Arcade are some of the most aesthetically pleasing. If you time your visit to the latter carefully, you’ll even get to see a life-sized figure of Robin Hood chiming a Roman numeral wall clock high above your head.

The Royal Armouries, a short walk from the shopping district, acts as a custodian for Britain’s collection of arms and armor and is deemed one of the largest of its kind in the world. The museum is divided into five sections: War, Tournament, Hunting, Oriental, and Self-Defense, and showcases a fascinating display of historical battle-themed relics that have been used throughout the world. The Royal Armouries boasts a plethora of cannons, swords , and painted portraits, though its most impressive feature is perhaps the glass-encased tournament armor of Henry VIII . The museum also has daily tours, dramatic performances, and combat displays to bring the experience of their guests to life, which is always good fun.

Leeds is also a great place to watch a sports match, with the city playing host to a number of traditional British favorites. Headingley Stadium has an adjacent rugby and cricket ground, enabling visitors to potentially watch either the local rugby league team, Leeds Rhinos, rugby union team, Leeds Tykes, or the Yorkshire cricket side. Elland Road, one of Britain’s most iconic football stadiums, is also located in the city. Due to the global recognition of English football, it’s common for visitors to want to attend a game, and watching Leeds United at Elland Road would be a truly authentic and passionate experience.

In recent years, Leeds has paid tribute to some of its most popular sporting heroes via a series of mammoth-sized street paintings. Leeds United legends Marcelo Bielsa and Gary Speed, along with Leeds Rhinos legends Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrows, can be found on walls across the city, as well as many other local favorites.

As for food, the options are endless. However, our top pick is The Swine That Dines . It’s traditional homely food done extremely well. The restaurant adopts simple, popular household dishes and creates an adventurous modification rich in flavors and gorgeous in taste. The cuisine on offer also goes well with a lovely glass of red wine. The staff are friendly, kind, and attentive, while the setting is intimate and cozy. Overall, a true ten-out-of-ten experience.

4 Awe-Inspiring Neolithic Monuments in the British Isles

By Daniel Parker BA Journalism Since graduating from Leeds University with a degree in journalism, Daniel has divided his time between teaching English and contributing articles for a variety of companies. He’s previously written for History Magazine, The Comics Journal, Storgy Magazine and Michael Terence Publishing among other publications.

Frequently Read Together

The 8 Greatest Scottish Kings of all Time

Here Are 5 Of The World’s Most Impressive Medieval Castles

How Did Victorian England Create Gothic Literature?

Town of Whitby

The Top Ways to Celebrate Pollinator Week In Whitby 2024

June 17 to 23 is  Pollinator Week . It’s a time to celebrate the important role pollinators like bees, birds, bats, and butterflies play in our local ecosystem and  supporting global food production.

As a designated  Bee City and a member of the  Mayors Monarch Pledge , Whitby is committed to protecting pollinators and their habitat. There are several fun activities for residents to take part in during Pollinator Week, including:

1. Participate in a Community Stewardship Event

Saturday, June 22, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Rosedale Park

Celebrate Pollinator Week by helping us maintain the urban forest in Whitby. Get outside and give back to nature by helping us remove invasive species and applying mulch to native trees and shrubs at our existing tree planting site in Rosedale Park. This event is held rain or shine, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing. Participants are asked to bring a water bottle, gardening gloves, and a lot of energy.

Register by Thursday, June 20 for the Community Stewardship Event

2. Visit one of the Town’s pollinator gardens

Check out the Town’s interactive Parks map to locate pollinator gardens. Find one near you to visit and encounter bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Simply open the map and apply the “pollinator garden” filter.

3. Plant your own native garden

Pollinators love diverse gardens with native plants. They are also a gardener’s dream as they require less water than non-native plants. Learn more about the types of native plants that are best for Whitby pollinators.

4. Participate in Bumble Bee Watch

Did you know you can help track and conserve North America’s bumble bees by reporting sightings of bumble bees through the Bumble Bee Watch App ? Simply take a photo of a bumble bee, log in and upload your photo, identify your species and have your sighting verified by an expert. Your participation will help researchers track the bumble bee population, including confirming rare or endangered populations.

5. Plant a tree for a pollinator

Now that you know pollinators love trees, why not plant your own? The Town offers plants, trees and shrubs at a subsidized price through the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program. Learn more .

Happy Pollinator Week, Whitby!

Browser Compatibility Notification

It appears you are trying to access this site using an outdated browser. As a result, parts of the site may not function properly for you. We recommend updating your browser to its most recent version at your earliest convenience.