Things To Do
in Whitby
Whitby is a windswept coastal town in North Yorkshire, perched at the mouth of the River Esk. Its cobbled lanes, dramatic cliff-top ruins of Whitby Abbey, and Bram Stoker connections give it a distinct maritime and Gothic charm. The bustling harbor is lined with fish shacks, tea rooms, and winding streets full of history.
From sandy beaches to atmospheric ruins, Whitby blends natural beauty with a rich seafaring heritage and literary associations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Whitby's charming cafes, such as the famous Fortune's Kippers, known for its smoked fish. After breakfast, wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, marveling at the stunning architecture and quaint shops. Don’t forget to visit the Whitby Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich maritime history and its connection to Bram Stoker's Dracula.
In the afternoon, make your way to the iconic Whitby Abbey that stands majestically on the cliffs overlooking the sea. Take your time to explore the ruins, soaking in the breathtaking views and the atmospheric history surrounding this ancient site. Afterward, stroll down to the harbor area, where you can relax and enjoy some fish and chips from the local vendors while watching the boats come in.
As the sun sets, head to the seaside for a leisurely walk along the beach, where the sound of the waves will provide the perfect backdrop. Visit one of the local pubs, such as The Black Horse, to enjoy a pint of local ale while sharing stories with friendly locals. End your evening with a ghost tour, where you can learn about the haunted history of Whitby under the moonlight.
Begin your beach day with a picnic breakfast on Whitby Beach, watching the waves crash while enjoying fresh pastries from a nearby bakery. After breakfast, take a stroll along the sandy shore, feeling the cool breeze and collecting seashells as you go. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water.
Post-lunch, indulge in some classic seaside activities like building sandcastles or playing beach games. If you're up for it, take a dip in the North Sea or simply relax on the beach with a book and the sound of the waves. As the tide goes out, explore the rock pools and discover the fascinating marine life that calls them home.
As evening falls, treat yourself to a seafood dinner at one of Whitby's renowned restaurants, where you can savor fresh catches of the day. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling seaside town. Finally, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the horizon, painting the sky in beautiful hues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-22 |
| 🚆Local transportation (day pass or equivalent) | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline and dramatic scenery
- Rich maritime history and literary connections
- Crowds in peak season can be busy
- Many narrow lanes and steep stairs may be challenging for some visitors
Places to Visit in Whitby
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic cliff-top ruins offering dramatic backdrops with the North Sea, especially atmospheric at dawn or dusk.
Bustling harbor views with fishing boats, the swing bridge, and moody light along the water.
A steep ascent lined with historic buildings delivering sweeping town and sea vistas from the top.
Historic rotating bridge with reflections on the water and a nice angle for sunset shots.
Clifftop vantage points overlooking the coastline and the mouth of the Esk.
Food in Whitby
Whitby Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked herring served hot or cold, often with brown bread or wedges of lemon; a Whitby institution found in fishmongers and some cafés.
Must-Try!
Classic seaside staple featuring fresh cod or haddock, chips, and mushy peas; best enjoyed near the harbor at renowned fish shops.
Creamy soup loaded with local catches (fish, prawns, shellfish), often served with crusty bread at quayside eateries.
A traditional Yorkshire ginger cake sweetened with treacle, perfect with a cup of tea after a day by the coast.
Fresh crab meat on soft bread with light mayo or lemon—popular at cafés along the waterfront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets in central Whitby offering fresh fish, local produce, baked goods, and regional snacks—great for trying street-food staples.
Seasonal street-food and seafood stalls along the harborfront serving quick bites and seaside treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect the narrow, cobbled lanes; queue patiently, especially near popular eateries and shops.
Always ask for consent before photographing people, especially in intimate settings or small venues.
Stay away from unstable cliff edges and obey warning signs along coastal paths.
Be mindful of working fishing crews and keep off working quays unless invited to enter.
Use provided bins and recycle where possible; Whitby’s historic lanes are sensitive to waste.
Safety
Tipping in Whitby
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; typical amounts are around 10-15% for good service. In pubs or casual cafés, rounding up or leaving small change is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming coastal flora; gentle crowds and good lighting for city and cliff photography.
Happier and busier with long days; expect crowds around the harbor and beaches; perfect for walking and boat trips.
Brisk air and dramatic skies; great for moody coastal photography and fewer visitors.
Cool, windy, and potentially stormy; dramatic seas and fog can create atmospheric photos, but plan for shorter daylight hours.
Whitby at Night
Hiking in Whitby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coast walk along the North Sea with sea views and dramatic cliffs.
A portion of the long-distance path offering rugged coastal scenery and villages to explore.
Greenways and riverside paths suitable for a gentle hike with village stops.
Airports
How to reach Whitby by plane.
A regional hub about 2-3 hours by road from Whitby, with domestic and international flights and onward rail connections.
Around 2.5-3 hours by car or rail-link from Whitby, offering a wide range of European destinations.
Smaller regional airport with limited services; easier to reach by road with a longer transfer from Whitby.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large seasonal influx drawn by the coastline, historic sites, and festivals.
Longstanding families living in a historic fishing town with strong community ties.
Whitsby’s annual Goth weekend attracts a notable subset of visitors with themed events and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Longstanding coastal pastime with accessible spots from the harbor and piers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whitby.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Whitby fish-and-seafood spots also offer vegetarian options like soups, salads, pies, and veggie pasties. Look for veggie mains in taverns and cafés and ask for nut-free and dairy-free adaptations when needed.