Hotels in Whitby

Overflowing with history and famous for its maritime heritage, the town of Whitby in North Yorkshire is an essential destination for anyone wanting to immerse in the English coast and countryside. With the town surrounded by the North York Moors National Park, bustling historical harbour and picturesque coastlines, there are attractions and activities for everyone, whether you’re a lone traveller, have a family with kids, or belong to a group of friends travelling on a budget.

Whitby is also home to towering cliffs overlooking the whale-inhabited ocean, the majestic Whitby Abbey ruins and associated with famous personalities like Captain Cook, Caedmon, and Bram Stoker.

How to Get There

Flying to Whitby is easily accessible via three airports in neighboring counties. The closest, just 45 miles at Darlington, is the Teesside International Airport, formerly named Durham Tees Valley Airport. In the suburbs of Newcastle upon Tyne, about 80 miles from Whitby, is the Newcastle International Airport.

The Leeds Bradford Airport is also nearby in the city of Leeds, 85 miles away. All airports provide a taxi service, but for those opting for cheaper transportation, there are train and bus stations near airports that go through award-winning scenic routes leading straight to town.

Getting Around

Whitby is a small, quaint town with its local shops and restaurants lining the winding streets of the town proper. With an air of isolation, the picture-perfect nature trails lead to either the tall cliffs facing seaward or the North York Moors National Park’s massive expanses of heather. With so much to see and the beaches that beckon, tourists and residents alike agree that the best way to get around the scenic town is by walking. Cycling is also an excellent means of exploring. There are also taxi services and the occasional local bus circulating around town for longer distances.

Take a turn back in time and ride the steam (or diesel)-operated North Yorkshire Moors Railway and Esk Valley Railway not just for getting around the equally picturesque neighbouring villages but also to enjoy its heritage and vintage stops.

Top Things to Do

One of Whitby’s most notable landmarks and top destinations is the Whitby Abbey ruins with its 199 steps. The famous architecture remnant has also become a pilgrimage site and a venue for town events and exhibits.

The New Yorkshire Moors Railway, preserved for a steam-operated train experience, offers visitors a tour of the neighboring seaside towns and a stop at the North York Moors National Park to marvel at the massive purple heathers in bloom. Different trails can be taken while walking or bicycling.

For those wanting to dip into the historic Whitby waters, the Captain Cook Experience is a great way to relive 18th-century voyages aboard a replica of Captain James Cook’s first ship. Upgrade the experience further by going on a whale-watching tour or a cruise along the River Esk, past the swing bridge connecting the east and west sides of Whitby, and towards the coastlines that have witnessed the earliest trades.

The town also prides itself on its museums and galleries showcasing its centuries-old heritage such as the Pannett Art Gallery and Whitby Museum near Pannett Park, the Whitby Galleries, and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, to name a few. Visitors are also welcome to attend festivals like the Bram Stoker International Film Festival, Whitby Regatta, and the bi-annual Goth Weekend.

And for souvenirs to bring home? Whitby Jet is a luxurious remembrance, fashioned into different handcrafted jewellery and accessories. Several jewellery stores and gift shops can be found along the streets of the town proper.

What to Eat

Whitby has been known for their fish and chips (or “chippies”) being sought-after by food enthusiasts and regular folks alike that a visit to the town would not be complete without it. The most well-known restaurant offering this is The Magpie Café, world-famous and praised by food critics.

Since Whitby is one of the coastal villages in Yorkshire heavily reliant on what the ocean brings, most restaurants offer a plethora of quality seafood menu from fresh catches. They also boast their home-cooked meals from local produce. Most pubs, cafes, and restaurants are close to the River Esk or by the ocean waterfront such as Quayside (fish and chips and takeaway), The Fisherman’s Wife Whitby (seafood restaurant by the coast), and The Moon and Sixpence (waterfront bar).

Nightlife

Whitby may be a small vintage town in the isolated parts of Yorkshire, but it’s not short on entertainment at night. There are over 30 pubs to choose from for a night of drinking and dancing. Traditional British pubs offer traditional ales and pub grub like the old The Black Horse and The Duke of York. These are frequented by locals.

More contemporary drinks of cocktails and shots can be found in Harry’s Bar and The Buck Inn, with an added bonus of a great view. The most vetted place is The Abbey Wharf, where there’s karaoke, dancing, a live band, and takeaway! To top off the night, a visit to Whitby’s only night club, Raw, is worth the hangover!

Where to Stay

The coastal countryside villages of North Yorkshire are dotted with cottages that can be rented by visitors like the Whitby Cottages. No matter the budget or the type of accommodation, there are hotels, inns, and B&Bs to choose from. At the heart of the town is the Bagdale Hall Hotel built in the 1500s and close to the seafront is the Seacliffe Hotel.

Inns and apartments are scattered around town—like the Riviera Guest House and Union Place, typically offering free breakfast and Wi-Fi with a pub or restaurant just below. And if feeling adventurous for the weekend, there are caravan and camping sites such as the Whitby Holiday Park and Serenity Touring Caravan and Camping Park just outside the town centre.

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