The port town on the north-east coast of Yorkshire is a beautiful get away. A mix of traditional Victorian seaside, the early medieval abbey, quirky shopping streets and gorgeous coastal walks and beaches, this part of the coast is often considered some of the most striking in the UK, making Whitby a great base for a holiday.
When to go?
It would be most traditional to go in the high summer. But if you were to wrap up warm, most activities here could be enjoyed throughout the year with better availability. There’s seasonal events too, from the Christmas tree competition in St Mary’s church from December to early January, to the steampunk weekend festival. There’s also a steam and traction engine festival in the summer.
Whitby has a strong relationship with Dracula as it is thought to be the inspiration for the novel. There’s the Dracula experience (£4 and spectacularly tacky!) and ghost walks making Whitby a rather spooky and Gothic visit around Halloween.
Where to stay?
There are a huge number of holiday lets in Whitby itself, from cheap rooms (starting at £40 a night) to affordable houses (£100+). Another option would be to stay in a youth hostel. Camping would be cheapest, if you have the gear and it’s warm enough.
How to get there?
It’s a little over two hours’ drive from Sheffield. You can also get the train, which takes 4 hours, changing at York.
What to do?
Whether you’re going for a weekend or a week there’s lots to do.
- Whitby Jet museum and shops. Jetis a very distinctive black stone used in jewellery making. It has a long history and there are still many shops selling Whitby Jet Jewellery too.
- Coastal walks- there are a huge array of walks around Whitby but the coast walks are particularly lovely.
- Fish and chips- some of the best in the world. Magpie’s is universally considered the best by many Yorkshire folk, but to be honest I’ve never had bad fish and chips in Whitby. There are lots of deals including mushy peas, bread and butter, and a ‘cuppa’ tea. Fish fresh from the harbour.
- Kippers – if you’re a fan of smoked fish then this is a must. Stop off at Fortunes Whitby Kippers, a traditional smokery. Try preparing them in the traditional way by putting them whole in a jug of hot water for 3-5 mins. Delicious for breakfast with scrambled eggs or on toast.
- Visit other nearby towns: Robin Hoods Bay – another favourite town of mine Parking is a bit of a nightmare so I’d suggest a full day out walking there and back (or there then back on the bus!) Runswick Bay has a great swimming beach and is a bit quieter. Staithes has a lovely pub that serves fish and chips right by the bay. It’s a wonderful little spot.
- Walking in the moors: You’re close enough for walks in the North York Moors with lots of amazing walks out into the moorlands. There’s even steam train options available from Whitby on the North York Moors Railway, which would make another grand day out in its own right.
Whitby holds a special place in many people’s hearts and I have to agree – there’s no place I’d rather be, than looking out over the sea, from the abbey at Whitby.