The pretty North York Coast fishing town where Captain James Cook honed his sailing skills, Whitby offers a brilliant blend of seaside charm, heaps of history — including the ruined abbey which inspired ‘Dracula’ — and a lively vibe, with cafes and shops aplenty. This is also an excellent base for hikers eager to explore the North York Moors. Accommodation options range from historic coastal inns to elegantly restored farmhouses, catering to a whole host of budgets and tastes. Many of the best places to stay in Whitby are small, family-run and surprisingly affordable, making it an attractive choice for a seaside holiday.
Visitors in search of the quintessential British coastal escape will be thrilled by Whitby’s miles of golden Blue Flag beaches, the lovely Victorian promenade, and the abundance of fresh seafood. Split in the middle by the River Esk, Whitby is a town of two halves: the fishing port of East Cliff to one side, and the elegant Victorian seaside resort of West Cliff – home to amusement arcades, luxurious historic guesthouses and the famous Whitby Beach – on the other. Stay in West Cliff for impressive views over the town and Whitby Abbey across the water, or venture to nearby Sandsend for a quieter beachfront escape.
Stroll the promenade, pop into the fun independent shops on Grape Lane, and perch in a seafront cafe for a cup of coffee or a delicious seafood lunch. Children will adore setting sail on a traditional wooden ship, trips on the steam railway, and a spot of crabbing in the rock pools by the shore.
If you’re in Whitby for the ghost stories, don’t miss St Mary’s Churchyard, packed with the gravestones of pirates, or a wander around the gaunt ruins of Whitby Abbey, which so fascinated Bram Stoker. Walking tours come highly recommended: there’s nothing like a ghost story in a foggy graveyard, is there?
Whether it’s the sandy beaches, the mysterious history of pirates and smugglers, or the proximity to the North York Moors National Park which have piqued your interest, the best places to stay in Whitby are all wonderfully cosy spots to soak up the area’s many marvels. And that’s without even mentioning the lure of endless fish and chips!