The best things to do in Whitby

The best things to do in Whitby

Crisp fish and chips, freshly fried doughnuts, a boat trip and exploration of the cobblestone streets – there are so many things to do in Whitby and the quaint fishing villages that surround it.

Whether you’re exploring Whitby’s rich history, spending a day exploring the local pubs or braving a family-friendly coastal walk, we know the best spots. Here’s our list of the very best things to do in Whitby.

Experience history at Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey has been inspiring people for generations, 1500 years to be exact. Everybody from the Vikings to Bram Stoker has seen these very same ruins. Renowned for its picturesque qualities, get up close and personal with the historic stones.

With panoramic views of the stunning landscape, this spot is definitely top of the list of activities for history fans out there!

Where? Abbey Ln, Whitby, YO22 4JT – 0370 333 1181

Climb the 199 steps for the best Whitby views

Maybe climbing 199 steps isn’t the first thing on your mind of things to do in Whitby, especially after you’ve filled your boots with fish and chips. But hear us out.

Not only have people been making this trip as a test of faith since 1340 (and perhaps before), but the top boasts some of the best views of the town you could find. And if you’re in the mood for more historic ruins, you’ll be rewarded with St Mary’s Church, originally founded in 1110.

Where?  YO22 4DF

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Grab yourself a pint at Whitby Brewery

Whitby Brewery sits on the stunning grounds of Whitby Abbey. This quaint converted-barn microbrewery was started by local ale enthusiasts who had been brewing from home long before this venture.

These brewers concoct amazing creations from the liquorice-packed ‘Jet Black’ porter to the light and zesty ‘Abbey Blonde’ – you’ll have to give it a try yourself.

Where?  East Cliff, Whitby, YO22 4JR

Take a trip to the beach

A trip to the coast is obviously incomplete without seeing what the beach has to offer. You’ve got all the British classics on the cards here: donkey rides, fish and chips, fried doughnuts, beach huts and views of a lovely lighthouse.

A beautifully flat beach, perfect to stroll from end to end. Maybe make a few sandcastles on the way, kids or none!

Unwind at Saltmoore, Sandsend

A lot of the activities you’ll be doing in Whitby involve sightseeing, walking from place to place, heck the 199 steps alone are going to leave you needing a good rest.

Nestled just up from Whitby in Sandsend, Saltmoore is a stunning hotel and spa retreat. Go for a spot of afternoon tea or visit their new pizzeria if you get pekish – this spot is one not to miss.

Where?  Sandsend Road, Whitby YO21 3ST – 01947 661661

 

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Make a stop for fish and chips

The Magpie is an institution, beyond renowned for its fish and chips from all corners of Yorkshire.

But this cosy seafront staple doesn’t just offer fish and chips, with a wealth of fantastic seafood dishes for whatever your mood. For foodies and everyone alike looking for things to do in Whitby, this Yorkshire restaurant should top the list every time.

Where?  14 Pier Road, Whitby, YO21 3PU  – 01947 602058

You may also like our guide to Whitby’s Best Restaurants, or the best fish and chips.

Join the Captain Cook Experience

Now, Captain Cook sailed from the UK to Hawaii, Australia and many other places in between over a period of around 12 years.

From the harbour following Cook’s path up Sandsend to see some of North Yorkshire’s ancient coastline, survey its wildlife and geology while listening to traditional sea shanties of a bygone era.

Where?  Endeavour Wharf, Whitby, YO21 1DN

Whitby Goth Weekend

Whitby is a town filled with gothic history, as the birthplace of Dracula himself. So, it’s not surprising that Whitby is home to one of the Goth communities’ largest events in the world and has been so since 1994.

Although there are many related activities to do whilst the weekend is on, the premier draw is the Bizarre Bazaar Alternative Market.

With over 100 indoor stalls hosted by the Leisure Centre and the Brunswick Centre offering the best in alternative fashion, trinkets and more!

Take in the sea views on a boat trip

With  Yorkshire Coast Boat Trip, you can take an hour-long trip in one of their fantastic little boats from Whitby across the Jurassic coast right to Scarborough and back again.

You’ll get a proper look at the dramatically carved out rocky landscape, the North Coast is famous for.

Where?  Quay Rd, Whitby, YO21 1DH – 07379 001507

Ice cream from Trillo’s of Whitby

Trillo’s of Whitby has been scooping up luxury dairy ice cream for over a century. Winning national awards from the Ice Cream Alliance, this spot has been listed in the Sunday Telegraph’s ‘Lick List’.

They’ve got perfected versions of all your favourites; mint choc chip, raspberries & cream, strawberry deluxe (both latter made with real fruit!).

They’ve got some fantastic twists too, rhubarb crumble, amaretto & black cherry and their famous black ice cream.

Where?  Spring Hill, Whitby YO21 1EB – 01947 602536

Whitby Distillery tour

Whitby’s Distillery Tour is your chance to get behind the scenes and discover the craft behind an internationally loved spirit.

Try different tasters, enjoy a botanical masterclass and learn about the history behind the Whitby Distillery Tour – this is a fun, interactive activity perfect for when you’re visiting this coastal town.

Where? 8 Botany Wy, Whitby YO22 4QX

Indulge in afternoon tea at Botham’s of Whitby

Elizabeth Botham set up her bakery in the ancient fishing port of Whitby over 150 years ago. Now, Bothams is a Yorkshire bakery, tearoom and shop in Whitby, famous for their fluffy lemon buns and delicious sweet treats.

This spot is a must-visit when you’re in Whitby, a favourite for locals and tourists alike. Go for a crumbly Yorkshire curd tart, or opt for a full feast of their homemade afternoon tea

Where? 35/39 Skinner Street, Whitby, YO21 3AH

Visit nearby fishing villages

Only a stone’s throw from Whitby, visit Robin Hood’s Bay, a quaint seaside village with cosy tearooms – the perfect spot for an ice cream. Stop by at Boggle Hole for a pint and playing cards, or take a cliffside coastal walk.

Staithes is one of Yorkshire’s most photographed villages, where the coast meets the North York Moors. A tiny seaside village, perfect for fossil hunting in the quaint, picturesque bay.

You may also like our guide to Yorkshire’s best beaches:

15 of the Best Yorkshire Beaches