Looking for top things to do in Whitby over a weekend? This post is for you.
Whitby is an interesting seaside town with plenty of goth stories, spooky history, great English heritage and dramatic coastlines. Whitby brags it all considering how compact and postcard-perfect Whitby is!
It was in Whitby that Count Dracula set foot on English soil in the Bram Stoker’s novel. Today, 112 years later, Whitby and spooky image has blended well, and it has become the town’s identity. The Dracula Experience and Whitby Gothic Weekend are the most famous things related to Whitby.
Having such an intriguing identity, it’s difficult to break the cliche and colour the town’s identity differently. But honestly we think the town deserves much more attention beyond goth and draculas. It’s a gorgeous seaside town. Here, we have curated our top recommendations and best things to do in Whitby.
DisclosureDisclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. For more information, please check our privacy policy
How to get to Whitby
BY TRAIN: Whitby and nearby towns are served by Northern Trains. Middlesborough to Whitby takes 1.5 hours, and York to Whitby with one change takes approximately 4 hours. You can also take train from London King’s Cross via Beverley and Scarsborough (with changes), and the journey time takes 6.5 hours.
BY BUS: Bus is the cheapest way to get to Whitby. Journey time from London takes 8.5 hours. If you want to take a scenic bus route, The Coastliner bus is a great way to enjoy the Yorkshire landscape.
BY CAR: A171 connects to Whitby from rest of Yorkshire, and treat yourself with some stunning views of rolling hills and coastlines.
10 Top Things To Do In Whitby
1. Whitby Abbey
One of the most iconic attraction is Whitby Abbey. A 7th-century Christian monastery later became a Benedictine abbey is the inspiration to Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula”. The ruins along with the backdrop of gorgeous coast make a perfect photo opportunity.
2. Climb the 199 steps
Also known as Church Steps, are the series of steps that connect Whitby town centre to St.Mary’s Churchyard. The history of steps date back to 1340 and were originally made of wood until 1700 when it was replaced with stones. 199 steps also appears in the Dracula novel, where a dog takes the steps to reach St.Mary’s church.
Please note that it can be a bit of a strenuous climb, but the sweeping views are well worth it. Make sure to turn back and enjoy the views of the bridges, water front, old town and beach line. For those who are looking for an alternative route to reach Abbey, there is a hop on hop off bus tour.
3. Walk to the West Pier Lighthouse
There is nothing more satiating than hearing the waves crash and seagulls soar high, especially when you are in a seaside town. Walk towards the West pier lighthouse and enjoy the views of overlooking hill and ruins of Abbey.
4. Hit the beach
Nothing can compare the feeling of walking on the sandy stretch of beach, hear the waves crash on your feet, and feel the salty air on your lips. It is indeed difficult to resist the beaches in Whitby.
After all it is such a beautiful coastline, one definitely cannot resist the feeling of taking a dip in the sea. Don’t fancy that? Play beach volley or simply soak under the sun! The nearest beach is the White beach, which is also popular for their colourful beach huts. If you want a rather quieter beach, head further away to Sandsend Beach.
5. Take a boat cruise
Take a boat trip at the town harbour, and enjoy the alternate view of town from the sea. It is also in Whitby Captain Cook, the famous explorer began his sailing adventures. The boat trips are free for under 5’s.
6. Go on a vintage tour
Skip the hop-on-hop-off bus, and take this Elizabeth vintage steam bus to sightsee in Whitby.
7. Visit Captain Cook Museum
Learn about the sea-explorer Captain Cook and his adventures at the Captain Cook Memorial Museum. There are wide range of exhibits and shows that happen regularly.
8. Experience Dracula
Considering that Whitby will be the hands down winner of being the halloween town of UK, it is not fair to miss out the fun. Therefore, be brave and go to the Dracula Experience. Enjoy the live actors and special effects as you immerse yourself into Dracula’s story. Alternatively, plan your trip for the famous Whitby Goth Weekend!!
9. Explore the corners of the town
Walk the lanes of Whitby centre and one is spoilt with choices of confectioneries, candy shops, ice creams, and what not.
10. Capture the essence of Whitby
Capture the gorgeous red roof buildings and unlimited view of coast. Take a selfie with Whalebone Arch, or Captain cook statue.
Where to stay in Whitby
Whitby is located along the coast of East Yorkshire, closer to North York Moors National Park. Whitby is a perfect destination to spend the weekend and there are plenty of boutique, luxury hotels and B & B around the town. Dillions of Whitby is a compact and comfortable B & B located in the centre of the town. George Stephenson Engine Shed is a unique hotel located 1.7 miles from Whitby, offering comfortable apartments. If you are looking for a bit of luxury and spa, Raithwaite Sandsend is the perfect choice as it is located only 5 minutes drive from the town.
Where to eat vegan food in Whitby
ABBEY HOUSE TEA ROOMS: Abbey Ln, Whitby: Wide vegan options available that includes mock duck wraps, vegan sausage. Worth trying is the vegan chocolate fudge cake.
AL TACO: Baxter Gate, Whitby: Mexican restaurant offering good vegan options that includes Vegan chilli, nachos, fajitas and tacos.
EMMA’S DINER: 36-37 Flowergate, Whitby: American style diner serving limited but good vegan options like burger, hotdog, wraps and vegan pancakes.
| CHECK OUT OUR TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES BELOW ✈️ Find the best flights flights with SkyScanner or Jet2 🏡 Find affordable accommodations on Booking.com and Tripadvisor 🚙 Book your car with EuropCar Rentals 🚆Book your train journeys with Eurail or Interrail 🚌Check out the best bus fares in MegaBus 💚Get reliable travel insurance from World Nomads 📷Search tours from GetYourGuide or Viator 🏖️Book your all inclusive holidays with Jet2Holidays or Easyjet Holidays Check out the latest adventure travel deals on G Adventures 💻Check your visa requirement on iVisa |
Check out our 15 second video tour of Whitby
You may also enjoy reading these posts!
- 25 Best National Trust Attractions in England
- Guide to visiting 15 National Parks in UK
- 8 Top things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
- Weekend Getaway in Conwy
- Explore Isle of Mull on a weekend
- Best AONBs to visit in UK
- Things to do in Rickmansworth Aquadrome, Hertfordshire
- Visitor’s guide to Canterbury Cathedral
- Most magical castles in Scotland
Don’t Miss A Thing!
Subscribe here and keep updated with our latest travels, new posts, travel tips, destination guides and plenty of travel inspiration!
Like it? Pin it!
CONNECT WITH US | FACEBOOK| INSTAGRAM| PINTEREST | YOUTUBE| TWITTER
This article is now available as a mobile app. Go to GPSmyCity to download the app for GPS-assisted travel directions to the attractions featured in this article.
Destination Infinity
The first five photos are exceptional! Super shots 🙂
Destination Infinity
countryhoppingcouple
Thanks a lot DI 🙂
Rajaraman
Graphic picturization of whitby and lucid description of the locales. Generous views expressed and makes readers anxiety to make visits
The Guy
We totally adore Whitby too, we were there only last week!
We have a caravan in Filey so whenever we stay we try to make a trip to wonderful Whitby.
Walking along the harbour is great for some fabulous views.
I'd also recommend getting there sooner rather than later. A year or two ago heavy rains made much of the cliff side fall away. This has made great danger for the (Dracula) St Mary's Church on top of the hill. If more heavy rains cause land slides we might lose the church all together 🙁
countryhoppingcouple
Oh that's not good news that the cliff is eroding faster. It was a lovely town, and considering most of the beauty lies around the cliff, something should be done by the council to stop cliffs fall away 🙁
Emma @ Everyday Postcard
Since reading Dracula I've wanted to visit Whitby, looks like a lovely, traditional English seaside town!
countryhoppingcouple
All the more reason to visit Whitby! You should go there during Goth Weekend.
Renuka
As usual, amazing photos! Whitby sounds like a fun place. England is my dream destination and getting all the insights about it on your blog is helpful. Thank you!
countryhoppingcouple
Thanks Renuka 🙂 People who travel to England most often traverse through the over rated attractions and cities that they fail to see what lies beyond those! Glad we are of some help to you.
Charles McCool
Nice list of things to do. If I am in UK for Halloween, seems Whitby is the place to be.
countryhoppingcouple
You should totally Charles! Gothic weekend happens twice a year, and you can see more info in google for exact dates!
Tammy and Chris on the move
I have been to Whitby before and lved it. It is such a relaxing little place. Perfect for a weekend break.
countryhoppingcouple
Exactly Tammy. It's a great place for a weekend getaway, explore the coast or the national park!
Avada Kedavra
There are so many places to see in UK, Anu. I heard many of these places thanks to you. Lovely pics, as always. 🙂
countryhoppingcouple
Yes there are lots of places in UK. We haven't seen everything yet, but we would love to see as much possible over the weekends.
Hannah
You hooked me in the the Dracula comment but your photos are stunning! What a gorgeous spot- would love to visit one day. Thanks for sharing these tips (and the spooky Dracula history!)
countryhoppingcouple
Oh, if you are a Dracula fan, you ought to visit this place Hannah! And for the beautiful coast that it has got 🙂
Els Mahieu
Ruins? A stunning beach? What's not to like? 🙂 Just checked on a map of England where it was exactly and where the nearest airport is
countryhoppingcouple
Exactly Els! It's a great place to spend the weekend leisurely! So, do you plan to visit Whitby anytime soon?
cedelson3041
I've never been to Whitby, although we've traveled through England. I'll have to make sure we stop next time we are in the area.
countryhoppingcouple
Definitely! You will not be disappointed!
Bikram
WOWOW what a beautiful place and I LIVE IN UK.. I so have to visit this place
right next holidays this is on the list to visit ..
Bikram's
countryhoppingcouple
Glad to know that you are considering Whitby for your next holidays!!
Bailey K. | Let Birds Fly
Love this! The colors are so great and it looks like such a friendly town. Great photos!
countryhoppingcouple
Thanks Bailey! It sure is a friendly town! It's not very big and there are gorgeous houses along the shores!
Samantha Hussey
Brings back childhood memories! Especially the jar of sweets and fish n chips! I miss fish n chips here in Prague 🙁 I love visiting towns like Whitby now as an adult but they were so miserable and dull as a kid!
countryhoppingcouple
Finally, I hear from someone who's been to Whitby! Now they've made the place attractive for kids too, with lot of Amusement arcades, boat trips, candy shops, games etc.
Bianca Malata
Beautiful place! I am all for exploring towns close to home as much as I visit countries outside the UK. This will be joining my list of places to visit in the UK.
Hong Kong Island Hopping
Barbara
I love this post! I’ve been to Whitby a few times, and I always make sure I have enough time to visit the Abbey. I really enjoy the Gothic scene there too, and I think it’s fantastic that everywhere tries to incorporate a little Dracula, haha. The only thing I disagree with, on your list, is that it has the best fish and chips! For me, that title still belongs to a sleepy fishing village in the north of Scotland, called Mallaig <3 Great post. Well done.
Barbara recently posted…How to make your own Cherry Cola!
Alex Rivera
A little embarrassed to say that our family has yet to visit England. It’s definitely on our bucket list. Hopefully, after the pandemic is over. Love all your pics and quick video at the end. Great job! My wife would love the Monastery for sure. I in turn would love a long walk on the sandy beach. Thanks for sharing! Stay safe.
Tamara S Wilcox
Loved learning about Whitby. My ony trip to England was far too short. I’d sure like to go back and see more like this!
Tamara S Wilcox recently posted…Incredible Moments in Mesa, AZ
Linda (LD Holland)
So fascinating to read that Whitby is where Count Dracula landed in England. I can see why there are tourist attractions built around this. I probably would rather tour the Captain Cook Memorial Museum. I might want to take in the abbey and cute small town. A view from the top of that cliff would be stunning.
Linda (LD Holland) recently posted…A Short Visit To Salzburg Austria