Whitby
Whitby
Whitby is in The North York Moors National Park in England.
Whitby, a picturesque seaside town in North Yorkshire, England, is steeped in history and charm. Nestled on the east coast, Whitby is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, framed by beautiful cliffs and the expansive North Sea. The town’s skyline is dominated by the imposing ruins of Whitby Abbey, a 7th-century Christian monastery that later became a Benedictine abbey. The abbey’s Gothic ruins, perched dramatically atop the East Cliff, offer breathtaking views and are accessible via the famous 199 steps, a challenge for visitors but well worth the effort for the panoramic views at the top.
The town’s maritime heritage is another key aspect of its character. Historically, Whitby was a significant whaling port and also renowned for its jet jewelry industry, crafting beautiful pieces from the jet stones found in the local area. The town’s connection to the sea is celebrated in its bustling harbor, where fishing boats and pleasure crafts bob in the water, and in the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, dedicated to the famous explorer who began his seafaring career in Whitby.
Whitby’s quaint streets and alleys are a delight to explore. The town’s architecture is a mix of old and new, with narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings, many of which have been converted into charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The local cuisine is notable for its fresh seafood, with Whitby’s famous fish and chips being a must-try for any visitor.
The town also holds a special place in literary history, as it was one of the inspirations for Bram Stoker’s famous novel “Dracula.” Stoker stayed in Whitby in the late 19th century and the town’s eerie atmosphere, particularly the Gothic splendor of the abbey, influenced his writing. This connection is celebrated in the town, particularly during the Whitby Goth Weekend, a bi-annual festival that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Whitby is surrounded by the North York Moors National Park, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The beautiful countryside, dotted with quaint villages and moorland, provides a stark but beautiful contrast to the rugged coastline, making Whitby a unique destination that captures the essence of North Yorkshire’s diverse landscapes.
Created: 5 January 2024 Edited: 26 March 2024
Whitby
Shopping in Whitby
Ellesmere Port Arcades Rivington Road, Whitby
Ellesmere Port Arcades mall
Netto Civic Way, Whitby
Netto supermarket
Morrisons Chester Road, Whitby
Morrisons supermarket
Local History around Whitby
There are some historic monuments around including:
Wayside cross called Postgate Cross on Graystone Hills 700m NNE of Sneaton CornerThe Latter Gate Hills tumuli; the northern of the two, 200m ESE from the junction of the A171 and the road leading to FylingthorpeBowl barrow 530m north west of ThornfieldsBowl barrow 825m north of the junction of the A171 and the road leading to FylingthorpeSaltwick Nab alum quarriesHawsker Cross wayside cross, 100m east of Hawsker Hall FarmBowl barrow 455m north west of ThornfieldsBowl barrow 65m west of Standing Stones on Standing Stones Rigg'Pen Howe' tumuliGroup of seventeen tumuli to the N of Greenlands Howe, on the east side of Sleights MoorLinear earthwork to the NW of the junction of the A171 and the road leading to FylingthorpeBowl barrow 300m north east of the junction of the A171 and the road leading to FylingthorpeStanding stones forming a small stone circle on Standing Stones Rigg, 520m west of RamsdaleAlum quarries and works 800m north of Sandsend BridgeLinear earthwork south east of the junction of the A171 and the road leading to FylingthorpeThe Wishing Chair Cross cross base at junction of Stakesby Road and Westbourne RoadBowl barrow on Low Moor 185m south of the Postgate Cross'Greenlands Howe' round barrow, Sleights MoorBowl barrow in north corner of a field 205m south of the Standing Stones on Standing Stones RiggThe Latter Gate Hills tumuli; the southern of the two, 240m south east from the junction of the A171 and the road leading to FylingthorpeWhitby Abbey: Saxon double-house, post-Conquest Benedictine monastery, C17 manor house and C14 cross.Two 'Flat Howes' round barrows, Sleights MoorSandsend alum houseBowl barrow 710m north west of ThornfieldsMoated site at Low Laithes Farm, Whitby Laithes.
