Whitby
,Whitby is a picturesque seaside town located on the northeast coast of England. It is known for its stunning beaches, historic harbor, and the imposing Whitby Abbey perched on a cliff overlooking the town. Visitors can explore narrow winding streets lined with charming shops and enjoy fresh seafood at local cafes and restaurants.
Whitby also has a rich maritime heritage and is famous for its connections to Captain James Cook and Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Whitby
morning
:Start your day with a visit to Whitby Abbey, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy stunning coastal views. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the beach to breathe in the fresh sea air.
afternoon
:Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant and then head to the Captain Cook Memorial Museum to learn about the famous explorer. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through Whitby's charming narrow streets and shops.
evening
:For dinner, try some traditional fish and chips at a renowned local eatery. Conclude your day with a lovely sunset walk along the pier.
Historic Whitby
morning
:Visit the charming Whitby Museum to dive into the town's rich history and maritime significance. Afterward, explore Pannett Park for some beautiful gardens and views.
afternoon
:Grab lunch at a cozy café and then take a stroll to the 199 Steps that lead to St. Mary's Church for breathtaking views of the town. Spend some time exploring the churchyard, which is known for its Bram Stoker connections.
evening
:Enjoy a nice dinner at a hillside restaurant, followed by a ghost tour that shares spooky tales of Whitby’s past. The evening will give you chills and thrills as you explore by candlelight.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich history and heritage, including the abbey and connections to Bram Stoker's Dracula
- Charming old town with cobbled streets and quaint shops
- Variety of outdoor activities like hiking and water sports
- Excellent seafood restaurants and local culinary specialties
Bad
- Can be crowded with tourists during peak seasons
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Weather can be unpredictable and often rainy
- Access to public transport may be limited, especially in off-peak months
- Higher cost of living due to its popularity as a tourist destination
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Whitby Abbey
Explore the historic ruins of Whitby Abbey, which offers stunning views over the town and coastline. The site also features walking trails and opportunities for photography.
Whitby Beach
Relax or engage in beach activities at Whitby Beach. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or constructing sand castles, as well as a scenic promenade for a leisurely walk.
Cleveland Way National Trail
Hike along the Cleveland Way National Trail, which offers breathtaking coastal views. The trail is suitable for various skill levels and is perfect for those who enjoy long walks.
Fishing
Experience fishing from the pier or book a boat trip for sea fishing. Whitby is known for its fishing heritage, and you can enjoy catching local varieties.
Whitby Harbour
Take a stroll around Whitby Harbour, where you can admire the boats, enjoy fresh seafood from local vendors, and take in the picturesque views of the town and the sea.
Scarborough to Whitby cycle route
Cycle along the scenic route from Scarborough to Whitby, navigating through woodland and along the coast. This route is ideal for cycling enthusiasts looking for adventure.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the waters around Whitby. This is a great way to enjoy the scenery while engaging in a fun and active experience.
Whitby Jet workshops
Participate in a workshop to learn about Whitby Jet, a unique gemstone found in the area, and create your own pieces while enjoying the outdoors.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Whitby Abbey
The iconic ruins of Whitby Abbey offer stunning views over the town and the North Sea, particularly beautiful at sunset.
199 Steps
Climb the famous 199 steps for panoramic views of Whitby, the coastline, and the harbor. It’s a popular spot for photography.
East Cliff
The East Cliff area provides elevated views of the Whitby Harbour and is perfect for capturing the bustling life of the town.
West Cliff
Offering a different perspective, West Cliff has lovely views of the North Sea and the pier, ideal for sunset and seaside photography.
The Whalebone Arch
This unique landmark provides a picturesque frame for the views of Whitby’s beach and the surrounding cliffs.
Whitby Harbour
A stroll along the harbour offers many opportunities for capturing boats, the lighthouse, and the vibrant life around the water.
The Piers
Walking along the piers gives you close-up views of the waves, the lighthouse, and the stunning coastline, perfect for dramatic photos.
Sand Beach
Whitby’s sandy beach is an excellent spot for beach scenes, with the Abbey in the background for a perfect contrast.
Coastline Walks
The coastal paths around Whitby offer breathtaking views over the cliffs and expansive vistas of the sea, ideal for natural landscape photography.
The Captain Cook Memorial Museum
While the museum itself is cultural, the views from its vicinity capture the essence of Whitby's maritime history and scenic beauty.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish and Chips
A quintessential British dish, Whitby's fish and chips are a must-try, especially when paired with stunning views of the harbor. Visit the Magpie Café or Quayside for a delectable serving of this iconic meal.
Must-Try!
Crab Sandwich
Sample the delectable Whitby crab in a fresh sandwich at The Whitby Catch, known for its delectable seafood offerings and friendly service.
Yorkshire Pudding
Indulge in a traditional Yorkshire pudding, often served with roast beef or gravy, at local pubs such as The White Horse and The Moon & Sixpence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Whitby Farmer's Market
Every Friday, the Whitby Farmer's Market offers a range of local produce, artisanal goods, and street food options, making it an ideal spot to sample local flavors and pick up fresh ingredients.
Seafood Stalls on the Quayside
Explore the seafood stalls along the quayside for a delightful selection of freshly caught fish, crab, and other seafood delights, often served in a street food format.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness
In Whitby, as in the rest of the UK, politeness is highly valued. It is common to say 'please' and 'thank you' regularly, especially when interacting with service personnel.
Respect for Heritage
Whitby is rich in history and culture. Visitors and locals alike should show respect for historical sites, including the abbey and local museums, by observing signs and behaving appropriately.
Quiet Enjoyment
When enjoying the natural beauty of Whitby, such as on the beach or hiking trails, it's considered respectful to maintain a level of quietness to ensure that everyone can enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Whitby, UK, tipping practices generally align with broader UK customs. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included. In pubs and bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. Tipping taxi drivers is also appreciated, typically rounding up to the nearest pound. In hotels, leaving a small tip for housekeeping is considered polite.
Payment
Payment methods in Whitby are diverse, with cash and card payments widely accepted. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, including contactless payments. Some smaller shops or cafes may prefer cash, though this is becoming less common. Mobile payment options, like Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also gaining popularity. It is advisable for visitors to carry some cash, especially in more traditional establishments or during busy tourist seasons.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Whitby is mild and offers a variety of blooming flowers and greenery. Temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). This season is ideal for enjoying coastal walks and exploring attractions without the summer crowds. Expect occasional rain, but overall pleasant weather.
Summer
Summer in Whitby brings warm temperatures averaging between 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). This is the peak tourist season, perfect for beach outings and activities like boating and fishing. Festivals and events are common during this time, but accommodations should be booked in advance due to high demand.
Autumn
Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). It is less crowded than summer, making it a great time for peaceful walks along the coastline and enjoying local food festivals. Expect more rainfall as the season progresses.
Winter
Winter in Whitby can be cold, with temperatures between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). While harsher weather might limit some outdoor activities, this season offers a cozy atmosphere with fewer tourists. Visitors can enjoy local culture, festive events, and beautiful coastal views during crisp, clear days.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
North York Moors National Park
A vast area of beautiful heather moorland, this national park offers a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels, with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Robin Hood's Bay
A picturesque village on the coast with various coastal paths for hiking. The trail offers scenic views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
Lyme Regis to Charmouth Coastal Walk
A stunning coastal walk along the Jurassic Coast, known for its geological significance and fossil hunting opportunities.
Sandsend to Whitby Coastal Trail
This scenic walk along the coastline offers beautiful views of the cliffs and sea, connecting the village of Sandsend with Whitby.
Goathland and The Old Railway
A charming hike through the picturesque village of Goathland, set against the backdrop of the North York Moors, with various trails including parts of the old railway line.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Whitby by plane.
Newcastle International Airport (NCL)
Located approximately 78 miles north of Whitby, Newcastle International Airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)
Situated around 60 miles southwest of Whitby, Leeds Bradford Airport provides a variety of flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Durham Tees Valley Airport (MME)
Located approximately 45 miles south of Whitby, Durham Tees Valley Airport is a smaller airport with limited international flights but serves as a regional gateway.
Manchester Airport (MAN)
About 95 miles southwest of Whitby, Manchester Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK and offers a wide range of international flights.
Humberside Airport (HUY)
Located approximately 70 miles south of Whitby, Humberside Airport primarily serves the eastern side of England with flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White British
The largest demographic group in Whitby, representing a significant portion of the population.
White Other
Includes other White ethnicities, such as Irish, Gypsy or Irish Traveller.
Asian or Asian British
Includes South Asian groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Chinese.
Black, Black British, Caribbean or African
Represents individuals of Black descent, including Caribbean and African backgrounds.
Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups
People with mixed heritage, typically combining White and minority ethnic backgrounds.
Other Ethnic Groups
Encompasses various other ethnic groups not classified in the above categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A widely played team sport in Whitby, with local clubs participating in various leagues and competitions.
Cricket
A traditional sport in Whitby, enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, with several clubs offering opportunities for players of all ages.
Rugby
Rugby is popular in Whitby, featuring clubs that engage in competitive matches and local tournaments.
Golf
Whitby boasts scenic golf courses, attracting enthusiasts and hosting various tournaments throughout the year.
Sailing
Given its coastal location, sailing is a cherished activity in Whitby, with opportunities for both leisure and racing.
Cycling
Cycling is popular in the surrounding countryside and along coastal pathways, attracting both casual riders and competitive cyclists.
Fishing
Whitby's rich maritime heritage makes fishing a popular pastime, with many locals engaging in both sea and freshwater fishing.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Whitby's eateries are increasingly accommodating vegetarian and vegan diets. The Green Room and The Blitz Café are known for their diverse vegetarian and vegan offerings, ensuring a satisfying experience for plant-based diners.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors seeking gluten-free options will find several accommodating establishments in Whitby. Both The Star Inn The Harbour and The Fisherman's Wife offer a variety of gluten-free dishes, ensuring a delicious dining experience for gluten-sensitive individuals.