Whitby is a historic and charming coastal town in North Yorkshire, England, and full of things to see and do! Whether you’re drawn to its history, natural beauty, or the atmosphere of its old town, there’s something for everyone. Read on to get some ideas for things to do in Whitby.

15 BEST IDEAS FOR Things to do in Whitby

1. Visit Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey, perched high on the cliffs, up the 199 steps, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the town. The ruins are not only a stunning sight, but they also have a rich history, famously inspiring Bram Stoker’s Dracula. You can explore the grounds, enjoy panoramic views of the town and sea, and learn about the abbey’s past at the visitor center.

2. Explore the Old Town & Cobbled Streets

Wander through Whitby’s atmospheric old town, with its cobbled streets, quirky shops, and historic buildings. The narrow, winding lanes are full of charm, and there are plenty of places to grab a cup of tea or a traditional fish and chips meal.

3. Climb the 199 Steps to St. Mary’s Church & Whitby Abbey

The 199 Steps lead up to St. Mary’s Church, which offers a fantastic view of Whitby and the surrounding coastline. The church itself is historic, with an atmospheric graveyard that features some very old tombstones. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in history or photography.

4. Take a Whitby Boat Trip

Take a boat tour along the coast to see Whitby from the water. Various boat trips are available, from short tours to longer cruises. You might even see some wildlife like seals, dolphins, and seabirds.

5. Visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum

Whitby was the home port of Captain James Cook, and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum is housed in a former merchant’s house where Cook lived as an apprentice. The museum provides a fascinating insight into his life and the voyages he embarked upon.

6. Stroll Along Whitby Beach

Whitby is known for its beautiful sandy beach, perfect for a leisurely stroll or for a fun family day out. The beach is right by the town center, so it’s easy to access. The views of the Abbey and the cliffs are especially striking from the sand.

7. Discover Whitby’s Quirky Shops

Whitby is full of quirky little shops selling everything from vintage clothing and local crafts to nautical souvenirs and Dracula-themed memorabilia. If you’re a fan of antiques, there are also several antique shops to explore. Whitby is also famous for it’s Black Jet, a fossilized gemstone used in Victorian mourning jewelry, and there are plenty of shops selling this.

8. Try Whitby Fish & Chips

Whitby is famous for its fish and chips, and there are several excellent fish-and-chip shops in the town, including The Magpie Café and Trenchers. A classic British experience that should not be missed while you’re in town!

9. Explore the Whitby Museum

The Whitby Museum offers a wide variety of exhibits, including local history, geology, and the town’s maritime past. It’s located near Pannett Park and is a great way to learn more about Whitby’s rich heritage.

10. Take a Trip to Whitby Harbour

Whitby Harbour is an active fishing port, and you can watch fishermen at work, browse the local fish market, or enjoy a waterfront meal. The harbour area is lively and picturesque, with boats bobbing in the water and seagulls flying overhead. There are also 2 piers you can walk out on, depending on which side of the River Esk you are

11. Whitby Goth Weekend (If Timing Allows)

If you happen to be visiting in April or October, you might coincide with the Whitby Goth Weekend. This festival celebrates the town’s gothic heritage, attracting thousands of visitors dressed in alternative fashion. It’s a fun and unique event with live music, markets, and plenty of darkly fashionable attendees.

Whitby Goth Weekend in April & October is a really interesting time to visit when you’ll see a celebration of the weird & wonderful

12. Visit the Dracula Experience

If you’re a fan of the Dracula story, visit the Dracula Experience, an interactive attraction that takes you through the gothic tale with special effects, exhibits, and a touch of spookiness.

13. Whitby Lighthouse

Visit the Whitby Lighthouse, which sits at the entrance to the harbour and offers great views over the sea. It’s a great spot for photos, especially if you’re interested in maritime history.

14. Explore Pannett Park

Pannett Park is a lovely spot for a relaxing walk or a picnic. The park has beautifully landscaped gardens, a children’s play area, and a lovely café. The Whitby Museum is also located within the park.

15. Visit the Whitby Whale Bone Arch

The iconic whale bone arch is located at the entrance to the town, near the cliff top. It marks the location where whalers once launched their ships, and today it’s a well-loved landmark for visitors.

Whether you’re looking to delve into history, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply take in the coastal charm, Whitby offers plenty to explore!

5 interesting facts about Whitby

Here are five interesting facts about Whitby, along with some inspiration for things to do in Whitby:

1. Dracula’s Connection – Whitby inspired Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”, and you can follow in the vampire’s footsteps by visiting the 199 Steps up to Whitby Abbey, the eerie ruins that overlook the town.

2. Jet Jewelry – Whitby is famous for its black jet, a fossilized gemstone used in Victorian mourning jewelry. You can explore its history at the Whitby Jet Museum or buy a unique piece from local shops.

3. Whale Bone Arch – A large whale bone arch stands on the West Cliff, symbolizing Whitby’s rich whaling history. Nearby, you can visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum to learn about the famous explorer who trained in Whitby.

4. Gothic Festivals – Whitby hosts twice-yearly Goth Weekends, attracting alternative fashion and music fans. Even outside the festival, Whitby’s quirky shops and haunted pubs make it a fascinating place to explore.

5. Best Fish and Chips – No visit is complete without trying Whitby’s legendary fish and chips. Famous spots like Magpie Café and Trenchers serve some of the best in the UK, making it a must-do for food lovers.

Whitby is world famous for it’s harbour of fishing boats and it’s fresh seafood

The 5 Best Food & Drink Spots in Whitby

Whitby is a seaside gem known for its fresh seafood, charming cafés, and traditional pubs. Whether you’re craving classic fish and chips or something more refined, here are five of the best food and drink spots to try in Whitby.

1. The Magpie Café

A trip to Whitby wouldn’t be complete without trying the legendary fish and chips from The Magpie Café. Famous for its locally sourced seafood, this iconic restaurant offers everything from lobster and crab to hearty seafood chowder. Expect a queue—it’s worth the wait!

2. Trenchers Restaurant

For another top-tier seafood experience, Trenchers is an award-winning restaurant offering traditional fish and chips, seafood platters, and homemade pies in a stylish setting. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for families.

3. The Star Inn the Harbour

Michelin-starred chef Andrew Pern brings his culinary expertise to The Star Inn the Harbour, serving a menu that celebrates the best of Yorkshire’s seafood and local produce. With stunning harbour views and dishes like pan-fried scallops and Whitby crab, it’s a must-visit for food lovers.

4. The Moon & Sixpence

Looking for a cocktail with a view? The Moon & Sixpence is a trendy bar and brasserie offering fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, and a fantastic selection of cocktails and wines. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed evening overlooking the harbour.

5. The Whitby Deli

For a lighter bite, The Whitby Deli serves up artisanal sandwiches, fresh salads, and locally sourced cheeses. It’s a great choice for a casual lunch or a takeaway picnic to enjoy while exploring Whitby’s scenic coastline.

Final Thoughts

From award-winning fish and chips to gourmet seafood and stylish bars, Whitby offers a fantastic selection of food and drink experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a weekend, these top spots will leave you satisfied and coming back for more!