Do you think you have a great B&B?
Would you like to show the nation why they should book in?
Do you think your business knowledge would make you a good judge of other peoples B&Bs?
We would like to talk to passionate and out-going Bed and Breakfast owners for a new television series we are making for Channel 4.

The show will look at B&B owners who feel they have something special to offer their customers – and are willing to put their businesses to the test.  We’re looking for a wide range of bed and breakfasts, but they’ll all be run by proud B&B owners.

For more information please contact Emily Hudson at Studio Lambert ASAP on emily.hudson@studiolambert.com or 0207 534 2035.

Please state the name of the bed and breakfast that you run, your contact details and tell us why you are so proud of your business.

Channel 4 Television have commissioned Studio Lambert to produce a new primetime television programme that will look at a huge variety of bed and breakfasts.

The Studio Lambert team are now looking for enthusiastic and proud owners of bed and breakfasts who feel that their business stands out from the competition and has something special to offer to visitors.

The best value bed and breakfasts, the most welcoming accomodation, simply the most enjoyable experience in a B&B, if you think you offer one or all of the above, then this is your chance to shine!

The series will feature a wide range of bed and breakfasts,  the team are looking for owners who are deeply committed to their business and can explain in a lively and engaging way why their bed and breakfast, is so good to visit.

This is a brilliant opportunity for owners of bed and breakfasts to showcase their business and highlight why customers should flock to their home. This programme will also encourage viewers to look at visiting independently run places to stay and provide a huge boost to the area in time for next season.

‘Crabbing’ in Whitby Harbour has been the pastime of youngsters in the town for a million generations. Next to Whitby Bridge is a designated harbour fishing area where 99% of those ‘fishing’ are trying to catch crabs on simple hand-held lines. Called ‘doggering’ (1) by locals, this simple activity comprises of a single fishing line, small weight to sink the bait, a juicy piece of bait (bacon rind, tinned mackerel in oil or, highly recommended – a fish head), no hook needed,  and for mums and dads a more than your average amount of patience ……….. but the babes will love it !  Insider tip 1 : the kids will want to check their crabbing line every 60 seconds ….. leave the line for 5 minutes, which should give time for the crabs to come out, sniff around and then decide on whether to dine on your offerings or scuttle back under the seaweed……. Insider tip 2 : despite what others say, don’t be in a hurry to bring up your fishing line …..slowly and gently is the key …. Harbour crabs are very quick to sense excessive or unusual  movement and will go into defensive mode and let go of the bait if alarmed

Care of the harbour crabs :

Harbour crabs are only small and are not edible. ‘Fishing’ for them provides endless enjoyment for youngsters who are keen to ‘catch..’ Treat these crabs carefully and gently. If you wish to keep any ‘captives’ in a bucket for an hour or more, please put some seaweed in as well because our little friends live at the darkened bottom of the harbour and are not comfortable with sunlight. When your ‘fishing’ is over, please return the harbour crabs to their home, gently and carefully.

 (1) ‘doggering’ :   pronounced   ‘ dog…errr …ing ‘  -   The Whitby term for red harbour crabs is ‘doggers’

The Dracula-in-Whitby.com website is dedicated to exploring the links between Bram Stoker’s notorious vampire and the Yorkshire Coast town of Whitby.  Discover why Stoker used this remote seaside town as one of the settings for his famous novel, ‘Dracula.’

Uniquely, much of the site has been written through the eyes of one of the characters in the story (Jonathan Harker).

Here’s a small taste of what you will discover:

• Guide to Whitby (created specially for the site)
• Dracula and Whitby
• The Real Dracula
• Dracula Quotes (impress your friends)
• Gothic Romance
• Whitby Accommodation
• Eating in Whitby
• Whitby Photos (created specially for the site)
• What is the Penny Hedge Ceremony?
• A History of Whitby
• Whitby Events and Festivals
• Dracula Music
• Dracula Audio Books and Costumes
• Ghost Stories
• Halloween Games
• Bram Stoker
• Yorkshire

Also, you can keep up-to-date with what’s on in Whitby AND the world of Dracula via the Dracula-in-Whitby Blog, Community and free newsletter.

So, why not visit the Dracula-in-Whitby.com website and get in touch with your darker side!

“Listen to them – the children of the night. What music they make!” (Dracula)

Web: http://www.dracula-in-whitby.com
Email: admin@dracula-in-whitby.com

Remember the ‘good old days’ when you used to buy fresh fish from your local fishmonger? Well those days are now back!  We might not be geographically local to where you are – but we’re just at the other end of a phone call. Allowing you to have fresh fish delivered and Seafood prepared by hand, packaged to your exact requirements and delivered to your door.

We buy fresh fish from the markets specifically for our orders so you can stipulate how you want it prepared and packaged.  We appreciate that everyone might want their fresh fish packaged differently, for example; if you want 8 fillets of haddock for 4 meals for a couple, then we will vacuum pack the fillets in packs of 2 so you can freeze and cook just what you want, when you want it!  Just let us know!

There are so many varieties of fresh fish available; it is difficult to list them all!  Here are just a few examples!  When you ring, we will discuss the fresh fish available given the season and conditions at the time.  Let us know what you want and when you want it, give us as much notice as you can and we will endeavour not to disappoint!

Examples of fresh fish we can deliver:

• Whitby Crabs
• Cod Fillets
• Halibut
• Haddock
• Lemon Sole & Plaice
• Ling
• Monkfish
• Lobsters

Whatever your requirements, no matter how much or how little fresh fish or seafood you require, Whitby Seafish Ltd: fresh fish suppliers, can provide you with the highest quality at the most affordable prices.

Please do not hesitate to contact us using the details below:

Whitby Seafish Ltd
Unit 1a, Whitegate Close,
Staithes,
Saltburn By The Sea
Cleveland
TS13 5BB
UK

Tel & Fax: 01947 841236
Mobile: 07980866654

Email: whitby-seafish@btconnect.com
Website: http://www.whitbyseafish.co.uk

During the last year The Whitby Guide has come of age, we turned 1 year old in July this year.

We are celebrating a great first season delivering excellent quality leads and enquiries to our advertisers across Whitby. Thank you all for your support!

We’re now well established in the Google and Yahoo search indexes and over the next few months we will enhance the site allowing us to offer even more in terms of service and value.

Here’s a selection of the improvements at a glance:

• More Keyword Searches
• Speciality Categories
• Improved Navigation and Usability
• New Packages
• Monthly Newsletter

We will now offer three levels of listing, Standard, Profile and Featured. A package to suit every budget and business, see our rate card here.

We are making some structural changes to the site so that your listings receive more enquiries and more relevant traffic, including speciality categories and keyword searches, for example, ‘Pet friendly Bed and Breakfast in Whitby’

There will be some improvements to the way the site works, making the site easier for users to navigate their way around, for a better experience.

We will also be offering a monthly newsletter service, reach 20,000 UK Holiday Makers each month via our mailing list. Contact us for more information.

New for this year, refer a friend to our site and if they advertise with us, we’ll give you a 10% discount on your renewal. A great way to get more from your budget in 2011!

If you have any questions regarding your listing with The Whitby Guide you can reach us on the usual number 01782 442 916 or email james@thewhitbyguide.co.uk

Not already advertising with The Whitby Guide? Sign up in 2010 and receive a 10% discount. Offer ends 31/12/10. Terms and Conditions apply. Contact us for full details.

The last passenger train to travel over Bridge 30, between Goathland and Grosmont in North Yorkshire, is expected to go with a bang.

Fireworks and several other surprises will help to mark the final send-off, planned for the early evening of Sunday 1st November.

The occasion will mark the end of a 145 year piece of history, as bridge 30, which forms an 80ft span and takes the line over the Murk Esk, between Goathland and Grosmont, is set to be removed. It will be replaced with a new structure over the winter months.   The cost of doing so is estimated at £650,000, with the line being severed while the work takes place.

There is an opportunity for visitors to mark the final journey over Bridge 30, before it is replaced, by travelling on a special Bridge Benefit last train on Sunday 1st November. The train will depart from Grosmont at 1530hrs for Pickering, returning from Pickering at 1700hrs, and will be hauled by the iconic streamline steam engine “Sir Nigel Gresley”. A £3 supplement for the round trip will be payable on top of the normal fares, with proceeds to the ‘Bridge & Wheels’ Appeal.  (Passengers returning from Grosmont to Pickering only will not be charged the supplement).

For those looking to enjoy the experience in more opulent surroundings, a limited number of pre-bookable First Class seats are available for the round trip, offering tea, sandwiches and cakes in one of the more historic saloon carriages.  A £10 supplement is payable in advance.  Reservations can be made by phoning 01751 472508 or by email to info@nymr.co.uk following which a commemorative ticket will be issued.

NYMR General Manager, Philip Benham, said “What we’re looking to do is to recreate the atmosphere of the “last trains” that were so common in the Beeching era – the difference this time, of course, is that the line will re-open again in March next year!  We’re ushering out a bridge that has served the Railway well, in readiness for a new structure of some significance to replace it.”

There may be some noise and bangs as the train passes over the bridge, and those who might be disturbed with very young children, or with dogs, will be advised to travel towards the rear of the train from Pickering.

A full service of steam hauled trains will operate throughout the weekend Sat 31 Oct and Sun 1 Nov, while the railway’s diesel railcar will be operating shuttle services between Grosmont and Goathland giving passengers a final chance to view the old bridge through the train’s panoramic windows.

The weekend will also be a last chance to travel behind ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’ in the 50th anniversary year since the engine became the fastest steam engine since the Second World War with a speed of 112mph on 23 May 1959.

Also during the weekend, the Railway is offering additional entertainment along the line, combining steam train rides with family entertainment, in what is dubbed the Wizard Weekend.

Birds of Prey will be on show at Levisham Station over the weekend with static displays on 31 Oct and demonstrations from 12.30pm on 1st November.  A Punch and Judy show will also be performed on the Saturday.

At Goathland, a 30 minute magic show will be performed at regular intervals over the weekend.

Balloon modelling, face painting, magic tricks will be a feature at Levisham, Goathland and Grosmont stations over the weekend.

The Jet Set Border Morris dancers, dressed Goth-style, all in black, will be performing at regular intervals at Goathland and Grosmont stations, using the train to travel between the two stations.

Passengers may also like to visit Whitby, where the town’s annual Goth Weekend is taking place, but are asked to note that the last train back from Whitby on Sunday 1 November will run earlier than usual at 16.00hrs.

For further details about the train running during this weekend, go to www.nymr.co.uk or alternatively call 01751 472508

Musicport Festival 2009 promises a wide range of international, national and regional artists celebrating 10 years of bringing the best in global music to the Yorkshire coast. This year’s eclectic line up mixes many artists who are new to the festival with some previous special guests. With the successful transition to its new venue at the recently refurbished Spa Complex in Bridlington undertaken last year this year Musicport 09 is set to be the biggest and best yet. The 10th anniversary will be a celebration of the last ten years as well as pointer towards what the future holds in store for its loyal audience that has grown year on year. This year the festival is back in its traditional half term dates and takes place over the weekend of 23-25 October 2009.

The line-up so far includes music, dance and spoken word traditions from countries as diverse as Tibet, New Zealand, Chile, India, Malawi, Jamaica, D R Congo, Sudan, Philippines, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Cape Verde, Bulgaria, Niger and Brazil as well as many excellent UK based artists.

• From  the multi-talented Nitin Sawhney (at the forefront of the  Asian Underground movement) to regular Radio 4 comedian/musician  Mitch Benn,
• From the classic roots reggae of Misty in Roots to the gentle Maori music of Pacific Curls
• From the lead singer of The Inspiral Carpets to the only living master of the traditional instrument of the fishermen of Lake Chad in Niger Mamane Bark.
• From stunning Flamenco music & dance to arguably the best African jazz ensemble and the BBC Radio 3 World Music Award winners Justin Adams & Juldeh Camara
• From the top ambient DJ/producer Banco De Gaia to the haunting polyphonic singing of the Pirin mountains in Bulgaria the Bisserov Sisters
• From the political folk harmonies of Chumbawamba  to the amazing spectacle of Sufi music and whirling dervishes of Forever Haqqani
• From the award-winning English musician Jim Moray to dub poet Jean Binta Breeze
• From Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalists (& Musicport regulars) The Urban Gypsies to the trance-inducing Sudanese acoustic dance music of Rango as well as a host of local musicians and performers

The festival has 4 stages all in one gloriously restored Art Deco venue overlooking Bridlington’s extensive South Beach sands. With workshops, spoken word events, film, children’s events, festival market , DJ room and food court the festival offers an all weather alternative to the outdoor summer festivals and is many peoples chance to recapture and rekindle that festival spirit (and paddle in the sea) before the nights get way too long.

Line-up (subject to contract)
Nitin Sawhney
Misty In Roots
Mad Professor Ariwa Possee
Justin Adams & Juldeh Camara
African Jazz All Stars
Chumbawamba
Banco De Gaia
Abdullah Chhadeh & Syriana
Sumayo Flamenco
Pacific Curls (New Zealand)
Les Quatre Étoiles (Congo)
Mitch Benn
Batanai (Zimbabwe)
Jim Moray (England)
Jean Binta Breeze
Carmen Souza (Cape Verde)
Rafiki Jazz
The Hut People
The Ukrainians
Forever Haqqani  (Sheikh Ahmad Dede & His Whirling Dervishes)
Mamane Barka (Niger)
Rango (Sudan /Egypt)
Tom Hingley
Bisserov Sisters (Bulgaria)
The Balkanatics
Tashi Lhunpo Monks (Tibet)
Jack Mapanje (Malawi)
La Romeria De Santa Fortuna (Chile)
Adriano Adewale Group (Brazil/UK)
Cloudbase
Samay (UK/India)
Fernhill (Wales)
Mother India – MI21 remix
Maalstroom & Jo Freya (UK/Netherlands
Guy Buttery & Nibs Van Der Spuy (solo & duo)
DJ Monkey Pilot
Union Central
Ian Clayton & Boff Whalley
Flying Chilli Beats
Bon Appetit
Eddy John
Urban Gypsies
LK Dance (Phillipines)
Delta Maid
Andrew Lowe
Kadesha
Karen Tweed & Reg Meuross
Country & Eastern Band
Martin Stephenson

This year’s featured cause is Love Music Hate Racism.

Ticket Prices   There are cut-price full weekend tickets £79.50 available until August (Then they go up to £89.50). Day & session tickets go on sale on 1st July. There is an official campsite (charged separately) and an abundance of B & B /self catering accommodation within easy walking distance of the venue

Ticket Line; 0845 3732760

www.musicportfestival.com

For further press information, accreditation, images or interview opportunities please contact Gail Cooke (PR for Musicport) on gail.cooke@talktalk.net or 07905 952374.

For the best of Whitby check out the following links:

Whitby Accommodation
Whitby Restaurants
Things To Do In Whitby

News in Whitby is a local news website that creates the majority of its content form user submitted articles. It’s a great read and offers some interesting information about Whitby and the local area.

This website continues to grow with new content and is always worth a read.

Click here to visit News in Whitby

Travel between Whitby and Battersby this Sunday for £15 return

This Sunday the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is giving passengers an opportunity to travel between Whitby and Battersby by steam, for £15 return.

The journey is a precursor to the NYMR Winter timetable, which will feature steam train journeys between Whitby and Battersby on some Sundays in January, February and March.

Passengers can take the 11.02hrs steam train departure from Whitby, which arrives into Grosmont at 11.22hrs.   Passengers need to alight at Grosmont and change to another steam train which departs Grosmont at 12.20hrs for Battersby, arriving at 1307.   The train leaves Battersby at 1335 hrs, arriving back in to Whitby at 1500hrs.

Seating is limited to 100 places.  Tickets for this return trip are available from Whitby Booking office, situated at Whitby Railway Station.  Hot and cold meals and a range of refreshments are available from the NYMR tearoom at Grosmont Station.  

For any further help or assistance contact NYMR customer services:

Tel:  01751 472508
Email:   info@nymr.co.uk
Web:  http://www.nymr.co.uk

This month the North Yorkshire Moors Railway will be hosting one of the biggest 1940s re-enactment events of the year – “Railway at “war” – which runs from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th October.

The highlight of the weekend is the Saturday parade through Pickering, with marching bands, military and civilian vehicles, which attracts bumper crowds.

Hundreds of re-enactors will take part in displays and demonstrations along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, between Pickering, Levisham, Goathland and Grosmont.    The event has become so big, that accommodation providers within a 50 miles radius tend to get booked up months in advance.

Heritage steam trains will be running hourly to take the thousands of visitors along the line, including the 1937 engine, “Sir Nigel Gresley” – which is one of only six A4 Pacific class engines remaining in the world.    Trains will run between Pickering and Grosmont on the Friday, and between Pickering and Whitby on both Saturday and Sunday.

The event, now in its 17th year, is a re-creation of the Home Front in 1943 and commemorates the part played by Britain’s railways during the 1939-45 war.  It has grown to such an extent that visitors are now expected from as far afield as Norway, Denmark and Holland.

Phil Bustard, Marketing Manager of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, said “There is no doubt that this is one of the most popular events of the year for the both the Railway and the wider community.   A lot of work goes into the event and we have every reason to expect a bumper crowd this year, given the increased volume of visitors through 2009, and the level of enquiries we have received.”

To help alleviate car parking difficulties, the Railway will be providing its own Park and Ride facility along Haygate Lane in Pickering.   The site, which can accommodate up to 1,000 vehicles, is accessible from the A169 Malton Road, just to the south of the town.    Parking will cost £3 per vehicle, with frequent mini-buses taking visitors into town.    The Railway has teamed up with a local landowner to provide the facility, and has acquired permission from the local authorities to operate the Park and Ride as a temporary arrangement for the duration of the event.   A one-way traffic system will operate from the A169, and temporary signs will be erected to help the flow of vehicles.  Minibuses will operate over the whole of the event, and will connect with the first and last train services each day of the event.    

For more information about the event:

Tel:  01751 472508
Email:  info@nymr.co.uk
Website:  http://www.nymr.co.uk/special-events/the-railway-at-war/

Images from last years event

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway hosted the biggest and best attended ‘Railway at War event’ yet, following the 3 day event which took place last Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The event, now in its 17th year, attracted an estimated 15,000 visitors to the North York Moors area, with more than 8,000 travelling by steam train between Pickering, Levisham, Goathland, Grosmont and Whitby.  Visitors came from all across the UK, with interest also being shown this year from Norway, Holland and Germany.

For the weekend the clocks are turned back to 1943 and the Home Front, to give a poignant reminder of what life was like during those dark days, including for thousands of railwaymen and women.   Hundreds of visitors can be seen in civilian and military clothing from the period and at Pickering, a large parade through the town brings the event into sharper focus.

Re-enactment groups with their vehicles and equipment help to bring to life a number of scenarios along the Railway, including fire-fighting during the blitz, dealing with an air raid, and keeping the Home Guard on their toes.  ENSA entertainers help to boost morale whilst wreath-laying ceremonies at Pickering and Grosmont help to underpin a serious message.

NYMR General Manager, Philip Benham, said:  “This has to be one of the best events of the year for local tourism.   It is about nostalgia, and we can all be proud of the crowds, the spectacle, the atmosphere and general goodwill.  The growing interest year on year in this weekend is amazing. This year was particularly special as we remember the outbreak of war 70 years ago.    There is a serious message throughout the event, and we are particularly keen to remember the sacrifices made by the many thousands of railwaymen and women who served on the Home Front.  But people also come for an experience, and to have fun – we can certainly deliver that.  The historic railway, period stations and timeless countryside all play their part.  I would also like to pay tribute to our volunteers and staff without whose hard work over many weeks in planning and preparation, the event would not be possible.”

The event also helps to swell the coffers of not just the Railway, but also many local traders and businesses.  The Railway enjoyed record takings at the booking office in Pickering and an overall increase in income across the Railway compared to pervious years.

As Philip Benham says, “Everyone benefits – the Railway, the shops, accommodation providers, local charities and other attractions.  It is good for the whole region.  But we need to keep a careful eye on managing that growth.   The demand for this event is such that we are contemplating making this a 4 day in the future, But for this to happen, we really do need to have talks with the wider community, whose help would be essential, and of course with our own loyal army of volunteers and staff who already give so much.”

Here at Whitby we are very lucky to have an abundance of good ground and many wrecks within a short steam.

This year cod up to 18 lb,  ling over 23 lb, Pollock up to 13 lb, in fact most of the bigger fish are taken within 15 mls of Whitby.

Of course there will be times we need to press further afield, and other times we need to get closer in, but where ever we are you can be sure I will  be doing my best to get you over the fish.

Single bookings welcome right through to Corparate days, Works team building days, Schools and youth club party’s as well as regular fishing clubs for up to 12 anglers.

Sea Urchin charters offer boat trips based at Whitby licenced for 12 passengers and a member of the WCSA giving a first class service to the many cod anglers who visit Whitby each year.

Booking a trip with us

If  you are visiting Whitby and fancy a trip with us, then please do not hesitate to contact us using the details below. We can take single bookings as well as group trips, and are always happy to offer advice and answer any questions.

Mick Leonard 
The Skipper

Tel: 07855439380

Any time during the day, and up to 10pm evenings

Email:  enquiries@whitby-sea-fishing.co.uk

Website:  www.whitby-sea-fishing.co.uk

I check my mail every morning when at all possible, but  please be patient during the summer months I work long days and so very ocasionaly  it’s every other day.

Our photo gallery

The Whitby Goth weekends are held in April and October and have grown into one of the most popular gothic events in the world, attracting all generations from across the UK and around the world.

The majority of events are held at the Whitby Pavilion including the Bizarre Bazaar Goth Market, however, there are also other venues such as The Metropole are used for overspill and unofficial events.

Although referred to as a weekend it includes events during the day on Friday and Saturday as well as events on the Thursday, Sunday and Monday. These events include additional club nights, markets, and a charity football match.

There are often unofficial day events taking place around the town too.

The Line up for the Spa at WGW October 2009 is as follows:

Friday 30th Ocotber

The Eden House – http://www.myspace.com/theedenhouseuk
(one tba)
Grooving in Green – http://www.myspace.com/groovingingreen08

Saturday 31st

Faith and the Muse – http://www.myspace.com/faithandthemuse
Adoration – http://www.myspace.com/adorationuk
Rhombus – http://www.myspace.com/rhombus

Click for more information on the Whitby Goth Weekend 2011 find out about the Whitby Regatta 2011 and Whitby Folk Festival 2011

Below are this weeks lastest news stories from the Whitby Gazette

There are many restaurants in Whitby, ranging from low budget, right up to expensive seafood specials, so here you go, these are my top 5 Whitby restaurants.

Greens Of Whitby, Seafood Restaurant

I had my first experience of this little gem last month, and was very impressed. Greens has was won many awards for the fine seafood they serve up, and i was not disappointed with my evening there either. A unique decor inside the restaurant lends for a relaxed atmosphere. There is an extensive menu for both food and wine, and the service does not disappoint.

Well located over the bridge on the east side of town, Greens is quickly becoming one of Whitby’s finest restaurants, and its not just seafood they serve, prime local meats and game are also a speciality, with the menu having a selection of steaks and vegetarian dishes to choose from.

Greens have recently received the Yorkshire Moors & Coast Tourism Award for the Restaurant of the Year 2008

Click here for more information on Greens of Whitby

The Magpie Cafe

Whitby’s most famous restaurant/cafe. The Magpie has been featured many times in local and national press, the Magpie has also been featured in various food TV programs over the past years. There is something about the Magpie Cafe which brings visitors flocking by the thousands each year to queue up along Whitby’s streets just to get through the door, and its for one reason only…the fish and chips. The Cafe is famous for its fine tasting fish and chips, idealy suituated directly opposite the towns fish market allows for the freshest fish been brought in straight from the boats each day, and straight onto your plate.

The Magpie Cafe has a long association with fishing and the shipping industry. It was built in 1750 as a Merchants House and during its history was owned by a member of the Scoresby whaling family and was for a time the pilotage where the pilots would wait for orders to bring vessels into the harbour.

Magpie Cafe is in a prime position for you to enjoy the fabulous views at the same time as sampling the wide selection of meals. Specialities include dishes that use prime fresh local fish, seafood and specially selected ingredients.

Click here for more information on the Magpie Cafe

The Moon and Sixpence, Bar and Restaurant

If your looing for a stylish, friendly and relaxed venue to meet for drinks or a meal either during the day or on an evening, then the Moon and Sixpence is the perfect choice. Having arguably some of the best views in Whitby, sitting in the huge windows you have a great view of the harbour and of the cliffs with the 199 steps winding up towards St Mary’s church.

The Moon and Sixpence is a great example of the mix of tradition and contemporary style that Whitby now offers. Located on the harbour front, amoungst rock and gift shops, this little gem is as cool as they get. Try some oysters and wash them down with some elegant champagnes, the Moon and Sixpence is a fine example of a modern bar/bistro. The food is not bad either, but be warned it can get busy and finding a table to eat at will be difficult, i recommend an late evening visit for a nite cap, sit outside and watch the world pass you by.

Click here for more information on the Moon and Sixpence

The Cross Butts Stable Restaurant, Whitby

Another well respected restaurant is the Cross Butts, just outside of Whitby. Set in tranquil surroundings, the restaurant offers great food, with prompt service and elegant decor. Situated in renovated stables, away from the hustle of the town center, the Cross Butts is the ideal choice for a romantic meal.

The menu is not extensive, but it doesnt have to be either, what’s on offer is a selection of fine meats and seafood, sourced from local suppliers. The selection of wines is impressive, and if you in town on a Sunday, they offer a great carvery service.

The Cross Butts is not just a restaurant, they have first class accommodation available also. The four poster suite with jacuzzi bath is a must and makes for an ideal valentines weekend.

Click here for more information on the Cross Butts Hotel And Restaurant

Trenchers Fish and Chips, Whitby

A Whitby restaurant guide would not be complete without at least one fish and chip restaurant to shout home about. Trenchers is well known for its fresh traditional fish and chips menu served throughout the day.

Well located in the centre of Whitby, opposite the tourist office and railway station, Trenchers are famous for very high quality fresh fish, legendary light batters, bread crumbed or floured fish, served by smart courteous staff, guaranteeing you a meal to remember.

The menu has a good selection and prices are reasonable. A must visit on your trip to Whitby.

Click here for more information on Trenchers Restaurant

The 14 award categories for the WHA Tourism Awards 2009 are:

Guest Accommodation of the Year (up to 10 bedrooms),
Guest Accommodation of the Year (11 bedrooms and above),
Hotel of the Year (up to 50 bedrooms),
Self Catering Holiday Accommodation (Single Unit),
Self Catering Holiday Accommodation (Multiple Units),
Tourism Experience,
Restaurant of the Year,
Pub of the Year,
Café/ Tearoom of the Year,
Website of the Year,
Sustainability,
Taste of Yorkshire,
Customer Service,
Unsung Hero.

The local awards have been established to promote businesses that continually provide excellent quality and service to their customers.

Tony Charlton, Chairman of the Whitby Hospitality Association said:

“We hold local awards in a bid to encourage our tourism providers in the town to shout out loud about their business and in particular the quality of service that that they provide to their guests”.

Janet Deacon, Tourism Manager for Scarborough Borough Council added:

“I am delighted to see that the coastal associations are encouraging businesses to participate in the local tourism awards, many of our accommodation providers work extremely hard to ensure that our visitors receive an excellent holiday experience.”

Nomination forms for the awards can be collected from the Tourist Information Centre in Whitby. All nominations must be received before Monday 31 August 2009.

The sponsors of the awards will be announced in due course. The short-listed finalists will be announced in October, and the winning businesses will be announced at an awards ceremony on 4 November.

The awards will tie in to the Yorkshire Moors and Coast Tourism Awards, as each of the local association winners will be automatically entered as finalists into these awards, which are due to take place later in the year.

Whitby & District Lions 1st Beer Festival to be held on the 31st July to the 1st August 2010 at The Met Whitby West Cliff.

There will be over 30 beers and ciders to sample and food all proceeds will go to local charities.

All visitors will receive a commemorative glass tankard and a feature program on entry.

All the food will be from local produces and all the beers and ciders will be brewed locally or regionally.

For further information please contact us

If your visiting Whitby and plan to go fishing, you can pick up all the latest tackle, bait and accessories from Whitby Angling Supplies. The shop is conveniently located on Haggersgate.

Whitby Angling Supplies stock everything you need to enjoy a fishing trip in Whitby, from rods, reels, lures, baits and rod and real combo sets.

They can also offer advice on fishing in the local area and the best baits, and places to fish.

You can contact Whitby Angling Supplies using the details below:

65 Haggersgate
Whitby
North Yorkshire
YO21 3PP

Website: http://www.whitbyanglingsupplies.com

Click here to view the Dracula videos

Shore and rock fishing

You can fish from Whitby to Sandsend and Whitby to Saltwick.  Fish available, depending upon the time of year, include codling, billet, mackerel and whiting

There is no fee payable or licence requirement for shore and rock fishing.

Beach fishing

You can fish from the beach between Whitby and Sandsend and between Whitby and Saltwick. Fish available, depending upon the time of year, include codling, billet, flatfish, mackerel and whiting.

Bait : Commonly used is mussel and/or lugworm. These are usually available from the tackle suppliers in the town. ‘’Peeler’ crab  is locally regarded as THE bait during the summer months but it is not available through shops. You will need to ask the locals ‘what ?’ and ‘where’ ? to seek this bait out ……. but be assured, it is well worth the time and effort ……..

Boat Fishing :
 
Boat fishing is very popular in Whitby. These trips can be for 2, 4, 6 or 8 hrs. A boat angling trip can be arranged on a daily basis at the quayside. Talk to the ‘professionals’ on the quayside before you book. Fishing tackle and bait can be supplied but check when you make a booking. The charter boats normally take up to 8 or 12 anglers.

Whitby Harbour

Fishing : Whitby Piers : 

Whitby’s West Pier is a delight for any summer angler, with spinners and lures seemingly favourites amongst those ‘in the know.’  The ‘ground’ tends to be sandy and almost hazard-free, though some weed and small rocks. Mackerel, in particular, and flounder are the regulars. Important : check the tide situation – it is more likely that you will be ‘rewarded’, fish wise, near and at high water. However, don’t be put off fishing at any time – there is always the fish ‘maverick’ swimming around !  Autumn angler ?  Come September the smaller cod will move in as will whiting, favouring peeler crab and the occasional mussel. Winter angler ? Definitely peeler crab, rag worm and lugworm but wrap up warm – it can be cold, cold and freezing (!) on the Pier at that time of the year !! However, many examples of large cod (15lb upwards) have been noted over a number of years)   Please note : Anglers are prohibited from fishing into the harbour from the West Pier.

Whitby’s East Pier has been problematic in terms of access for the last year or two. This issue is still under discussion with Scarborough Borough Council. As with the West Pier, anglers are prohibited from fishing into the harbour. The ‘ground’ is rocky and can be ‘tackle-damaging.’ Summer and Autumn fishing can yield codling and mackerel but not in the numbers off the West Pier. However, the East Pier is, more often than not, people free and consequently is a very restful place to spend a few hours contemplating the world and reflecting on the frantic nature of it all

Safety :

Whitby’s West Pier comprises of two levels, the lower level being accessible by a ladder at the end of the Pier. It is strongly recommended that you do not attempt to access the lower level during times of inclement weather. The sea is a joyous product of Mother Nature but it is capable of taking no prisoners should it be in the mood. Please check the weather forecast and tide table before you embark on a fishing session on the West Pier. There is no access at the current time to the lower level of the East Pier.

If you need any advice or fishing tackle while on your trip to Whitby then take a visit to Whitby Angling Supplies, who will be more than happy to assist you.

Annually, the coastal town of Whitby comes alive as hundreds of locals, performers and tourists gather for the legendary Whitby Folk Week. The festival is an excellent excuse to stay away from package holidays and head to the north east of England each summer.

Billed as the biggest folk event of the year, Whitby Folk Week takes place during August and provides seven fun-filled days for meeting old friends and making new ones. The event has taken on the trappings of a tradition in its own right!
With a ruined Abbey dominating the cliff tops above the town, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula (St Mary’s churchyard) and Captain Cook’s cottage creating a beautiful surrounding for the annual event, families gather in their masses and the streets awaken. Whitby is filled with rich and colourful heritage and this is reflected in the artistic sights and sounds of the festival.

Playing host to some of the most outstanding entertainment from some of the finest artists in the British Isles, throughout Folk Week, almost every venue in town is in use – from small pubs to the 1000-person capacity Whitby Pavilion. Each year sees over 500 scheduled events including street entertainment, workshops, concerts and dances.
This year, the festival is taking place 20 – 26 August. Confirmed acts for Whitby Folk Week 2011 include Young ‘Uns, Tim Edey & Brendan Power and Skylark plus a whole host of others. Entry is in the form of season or day tickets and can be booked well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Whitby Folk Week is a well established and loved festival – why not visit this year?

Need a place to stay? See Holiday Cottages in Whitby, Whitby Hotels or Whitby Guest Houses

With its many attractions, rich cultural heritage and compelling and interseting history, Whitby has something for everyone. From the 199 steps up to the ruins of the famous Whitby Abbey to the deep and dark Dracula experience, Captain Cook’s Cottage to the enchanting Whitby Walks there is always something to amuse and surprise. Boasting some of the country’s finest fish and chips, contemporary restaurants serving modern European cuisine, Whitby has a fantastic selection of  restaurants to choose from – just take your pick!

A family friendly event the Whitby Folk Week is a great time to visit one of the country’s most vibrant and exciting seaside towns. Playing host to some of the most outstanding entertainment from some of the finest artists in the British Isles, Whitby Folk Week will be an experience you will never forget.

A festival of real music, real ale, real food and real people, a traditional celebration of the important things in life – Whitby Folk Week, a tradition at the heart of Whitby.

Why not make Whitby Folk Week a tradition of your own?

Useful links for Whitby Folk Week:

Whitby accommodation
Whitby restaurants
Things to do in Whitby

Click here to visit the Whitby Folk Festival website

The streets of Whitby were a wash with entertainment and colourful displays this August, as Folf Week and Regatta merged to create an action packed weekend in Whitby.

For a full review of this years Regatta along with videos and pictures of the event then please click here

Some of our own photos of this years event are below

The Whitby Regatta has been running for nearly 170 years making it one of the oldest sea regattas in England. The Whitby Regatta is a celebration of all things aquatic with a host of yachting and rowing competitions over three days of exciting, fun packed days.

Over the course of the three days alongside the nautical competitions, there will be carnival fun, an Air Sea Rescue, a World War 2 Air Display featuring Spitfires, Hurricanes and a Dakota, the Red Arrows Display Team will perform, a 4km Fun Run, displays from each of the Armed Forces, a Classic Car Rally, a motorcycle gymkhana on the beach, the centenary of the Swing Bridge will be celebrated and the weekend will culminate with a spectacular firework display on Monday evening.

Running parallel to Whitby Regatta is the Whitby Folk Week. A seven day festival of the best traditional folk the UK has to offer, performed by some of the most talented musicians from around the country.

For more than forty years the Whitby Folk Week has brought song, dance and music to the North Yorkshire town. Now in its 44th year the festival has grown significantly from its early roots as a traditional dance-based festival. Featuring around 600 events throughout the week there will be plenty to see and do.

Folk is inspired by everything from the everyday to the mythological, nursery rhymes to work songs, poetry to verse. This variety is part of the heritage and tradition of folk, and what makes folk so diverse and vibrant, which is why you’ll see a wealth of improvised shows spring up around the town throughout the week.

With so many fantastic cultural and exciting activities and opportunities it will be hard to fit it all in to what is sure to be an action packed seven days. For more information on Whitby follow these links:

Whitby Accommodation
Whitby Restaurants
Things To Do In Whitby

Showcasing a range of Whitby talent at various locations around Whitby, from 12.30pm the line up so far includes the Cleveland Police band, Stakesby Steel band, Whitby Jets juvenile jazz band, and playlets by youngsters from the The Paul Nicholas School of Acting.

Marske Fishermans Choir will sing and the Saltburn Victorian Society plan to dress up for the day to bring a touch of period drama to the festivities.

There will be an exhibition of paintings, photograph competition, archival paintings and drawings of the bridge at Pannett Art Gallery, open from 12.30pm.

A Regatta through the bridge of sailing and fishing vessels will take place at 4pm when the bridge will open and Canon David Smith will perform a blessing of the bridge ceremony.

Scarborough Borough Council helping to make the event a success, has just completed the electrical refurbishment of the bridge and will be moving on to the hydraulic refurbishment work once dates are confirmed with contractors.

Cosmetic painting work to improve the look of the bridge has begun on the bridge hut, gates, rail tops and plaques.

Two special centenary plaques at either end of the bridge featuring three paintings by local artist Coun John Freeman, will be unveiled by The mayors of Whitby and Scarborough during the afternoon to mark the historic day.

If you’re planning a trip to Whitby to mark the centenary, why not take a look at these useful links:

Whitby Accommodation
Whitby Restaurants
Whitbys Latest News