Whitby may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a holiday, but it is a place that will surprise you when you visit. It may be small, but it is one of the most popular places to visit in the North of England. On the other hand, if you love horror literature, Whitby may be a great place to visit. Whitby is the setting for Bram Stoker’s world-famous book Dracula. During his visit to Whitby in 1890, Stoker stopped by the library and came across the name Dracula. Dracula, which means ‘devil’ in Romanian, was published in 1897. It is one of the most famous books today, telling the story of a vampire who comes to England. A horror classic, Dracula has been one of the essential works in the world for more than 100 years, with series, films, scripts, and computer games.
On the other hand, this coastal town has much more than a vampire story. Whitby is also the long-time home of James Cook, the famous British navigator, explorer, cartographer, and traveler who discovered Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand. Thus there are plenty of places to visit in this small coastal town.
Best Places to Visit in Whitby
Situated on the northwest coast of England, Whitby is an excellent place for nature and history lovers. It is also possible to explore the town in a couple of days. Whitby can be a great place to go if you are looking for a different, quiet, and peaceful getaway for a few days.
Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is one of the most important buildings in the region. Built-in the 7th century, it was the center of the Northumbrian kingdom in the Middle Ages. Whitby Abbey was initially used as a Christian monastery, and later it was turned into a Benedictine monastery. The ruins of Whitby Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula, are still breathtaking today. It is now recognized as one of England’s most important heritage sites. If you visit Whitby Abbey, you will understand how unique the building is, especially at sunset when the atmosphere is beautiful.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
Captain Cook Memorial Museum is amongst the most visited museums in Whitby. It is located in Captain John Walker’s House. Captain John Walker was the master seamen of James Cook in 1746. Cook also returned to John Walker’s after his first voyage in 1772. There are handwritten letters, notes, and maps of Cook inside the museum. It is a great place to visit for everyone in the region. Captain Cook is one of the most critical figures in Whitby’s history. Along with the Whitby Museum, Captain Cook Memorial Museum is a great place to explore the rich and fascinating past of the city.
Endeavour Experience Whitby
HMS Endeavour was the research vessel of James Cook during his first voyage to Australia and New Zealand. The ship was launched in 1764 and used in essential scientific research, including the observation of Venus across the Sun in 1769. This was particularly important because, thanks to this observation, the researchers could calculate the universe’s size back then. In 2018 a full-scale replica of this great ship opened a permanent exhibition in Whitby harbor. There are cafes, galleries, and presentations about Cook’s voyages on board the vessel. Since Whitby is one of the largest shipbuilding centers in Britain during the 18th century, visiting Endeavour Experience Whitby is a great way to learn the region’s maritime history.
Whitby Museum
Whitby Museum is one of the best places to visit in the town with its photograph exhibition, maritime history, natural beauty, and millions of years old fossils. Some of the most impressive Jurassic fossils in England are displayed at Whitby Museum. With fossils over 100 million years old, you will not believe what you see in the museum. Whitby is also famous for its Whitby Jet. Made from 135 million-year-old tree fossils, these stones are very famous in England. Even the mourning jewelry worn by Queen Victoria at Prince Albert’s funeral in 1861 was adorned with rocks from the Whitby mines. The best examples of these stones can be seen in the Whitby Museum. Visit the Whitby Museum to discover the region’s history and surprises.
Best Hotels to Stay in Whitby 🏨
If you want to get away from the crowd and rumble yet have an unforgettable holiday, Whitby is one of the best options in Britain. Since Whitby is a coastal town, visiting the city in summer might be a great choice, yet if you want to experience the city’s famous gothic and moody atmosphere, you should plan your vacation for spring. The sunset over the endless sea is an excellent view to watch in spring. Lastly, the city is also famous for Whitby Goth Weekend. It is an alternative music festival in town. Thousands of gothic culture lovers attend this stylish music festival in April. Thus, if you have an extravagant armoire, you can visit the city in April. But if you are looking for the best places to stay in Whitby, you should book in advance, especially during the festival it is challenging to find a great location.
Dillons of Whitby 🔗
Dillons of Whitby is one of the best places where to stay in Whitby. The hotel is in a very advantageous place in town. If you visit the city in summer Whitby Beach is within walking distance. Other tourist hot spots like Whitby Abbey, Whitby Museum, or the Cinder Track are incredibly close to the hotel. British and Irish specialties are on the hotel’s breakfast menu. If you want to have a great holiday, Dillons of Whitby is an excellent option.
Olton Hall Engine Shed 🔗
Another great place to stay in Whitby is the Olton Hall Engine Shed. It is possible to spend an unforgettable holiday at this wonderful hotel in the city center. If you want to explore the town, you can walk to many places thanks to the hotel’s convenient location. You can also use the hotel’s bicycle hire service to explore the area by bike. The hotel is 600 meters from Whitby beach. The beach is just minutes away if you want to enjoy the cold blue waters on a hot summer’s day. There is also private parking for Olton Hall Engine Shed visitors. It is a great place where to stay in Whitby with parking.
The Angel Hotel Wetherspoon 🔗
The Angel Hotel Wetherspoon is amongst the luxurious hotels in Whitby. The hotel’s rooms have stunning views and are located on the seafront. You can also enjoy the terrace bar and restaurant, which is also looking through the sea. The Angel Hotel Wetherspoon has a restaurant serving the finest flavors of British pub culture and delicious locally brewed beers. Whitby Abbey, Sneaton Castle, and Whitby Museum are all within walking distance of the hotel. The Angel Hotel Wetherspoon is a great option for a tranquil and complete holiday experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Whitby 🐶🐈
The rural side of Britain is an excellent place for animals also. Especially if you have an energetic friend like a hound, you can ensure they get all their energy out on this holiday. If you have a four-legged companion for your vacation, you’ve to choose pet-friendly hotels. While some of the hotels are pet friendly in all rooms, some hotels provide visitors with a pet for particular rooms. Luckily there are some great pet-friendly hotels in Whitby. It is essential to check the pet policies of your preferred hotel in advance to avoid any conflicts when you arrive.
The Royal Hotel Whitby 🔗
The Royal Hotel Whitby is the most luxurious hotel in Whitby, where you can stay with your pet. Situated right on Whitby Harbor, the hotel has stunning views. Whitby is one of the best places to travel with your dog, discover a new place, and have a wonderful holiday in a spectacular natural setting. The hotel restaurant serves a variety of British and Irish cuisine. One of the most popular hotels in the city, the hotel is also very centrally located. You can walk everywhere you want to in the town’s streets, try restaurants and cafes or go shopping. The Royal Hotel Whitby is one of the best places to stay in Whitby with a dog.
White Horse & Griffin 🔗
White Horse & Griffin is a great place to stay with your furry friend in the center of Whitby. The hotel’s rooms are set in a historic 17th-century building and reflect the classic English atmosphere. And the atmosphere is not limited to the rooms. There is an excellent bistro on the ground floor of the hotel. Here you can enjoy Britain’s famous pub snacks and locally brewed beers. Situated in the town center, the White Horse & Griffin is within walking distance of many of Whitby’s main attractions. If you are looking for a place to stay in Whitby with a dog and have a wonderful holiday, White Hose & Griffin is a great option.
The Stables 🔗
The Stables is a great place to spend a holiday in the countryside, away from the city center, in touch with nature and having fun with your canine friend. The hotel is two kilometers from Whitby town center. It also has a pond where you can play with your pet. Leaving the hotel in the middle of lush green countryside, you can take your four-legged friend on a beautiful nature walk. The North York Moors National Park is just 300 meters from the hotel. Situated in the heart of the Esk Valley, The Stables also has a bar serving local English brands. The Stables is one of the best places to stay near Whitby.
Best Hotels for Backpackers in Whitby 🎒
Whitby’s nature is magnificent. There is also a famous hiking track between Whitby and Scarborough, the Cinder Track. The way is located inside the North York Moors National Park. You can either walk or cycle throughout the track. The whole track is over 30 kilometers. The trail itself was an uneconomical old railway. In 1972 the railway was removed, and the way turned into a route for walking or cycling. It is possible to start from Whitby to Scarborough or vice versa. You can see many backpackers stay in Whitby and hike throughout the path. If you want to explore the tremendous coastal town and its beautiful nature as a backpacker, here are the best hotels.
The White House Inn 🔗
The White House Inn, one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers, has breathtaking views. Surrounded by greenery, the hotel’s rooms have stunning ocean views. Located in West Cliff, the hotel is close to The Cinder Track. The Sea View Restaurant serves British and Irish specialties using local produce. Local beers are available in the hotel bar. If you want to get lost in nature and have a wonderful holiday experience, The White House Inn is one of the best places to choose.
The Seacliffe 🔗
The Seacliffe, a hotel overlooking Whitby Harbour, offers its visitors a wonderful experience. If you want to stay in a hotel surrounded by greenery without being too far from the city center, then you should definitely consider staying in The Seacliffe. The hotel is a great place for adventurers just 15 minutes from the North York Moors National Park. Situated by the sea, The Seacliffe’s front rooms offer breathtaking views. The hotel also has a great location. It is possible to walk to popular restaurants and cafes in the city.
The Forge 🔗
For those looking for an idyllic retreat on the outskirts of Whitby, The Forge is the place. Overlooking the Esk River, the hotel is like a sacred garden in the region. The hotel’s restaurant and bar offer local flavors. In the bar, you can try a variety of local beers and the best whiskies in the region. As soon as you step out of the hotel, you will find yourself on a nature walk. You will have an unforgettable holiday at The Forge, the preferred destination for nature lovers and adventurers. The hotel is one of the best places to stay near Whitby by far.
