Whitby
Whitby is a charming town that rests along the North Yorkshire coast at the mouth of the River Esk in the United Kingdom. Whitby visitors will find that Whitby possesses uniquely diverse claims to fame. The well-known explorer Captain James Cook began his famous sailing adventures here. Legendary writer Bram Stoker experienced a stroke of genius in Whitby when he first conceived the idea for his classic novel Dracula. The town also has continued fame for its reputation as one of the UK’s primary fishing ports and holiday destinations.
The Whitby Guide is dedicated to the promotion of this historic seaside town. We share our love for Whitby through our content and hope we can inspire you to visit Whitby to enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.
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Things To Do
Things To Do In Whitby
Whitby Beaches
Walks Around Whitby
Hidden Gems Of Whitby
Places To Visit Near Whitby
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Whitby History
A permanent settlement was first recorded in 656 when the Christian king of Northumbria dedicated his first abbey, Hilda in what was known as Streonshal. In 664 the Synod of Whitby was held there. Later in 867 the monastery was destroyed by Vikings. It was later re-established in 1078. During this time it gained the name “Whitby”, old Norse for “white settlement”. From then on, the town functioned primarily as a fishing settlement until the 18th century it developed into a port for whaling and ship building. A local trade also developed for locally mined alum and Whitby Jet Jewellery.
Whitby Abbey & The Dracula Conection
Included in Whitby’s historical sites are the ruins of St. Hilda’s Abbey. Overlooking the town, settled on the East Cliff, the abbey was originally founded during the seventh century. It was attacked several times but different regimes until it was finally abandoned and left to ruins. Located in the same part of town are the famous 199 Steps carved into the side of the cliff. The steps lead to the old church yard that originally spawned the idea for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
In fact, the earliest English literature has been said to come from Whitby. Caedmon, the first recorded Anglo-Saxon poet served as a monk at Whitby Abbey during the St. Hilda abbacy. Bram Stoker’s Dracula, partially set in Whitby incorporated bits and pieces of the town’s folklore. Stoker even discovered the name Dracula at the public library. The novel Sylvia’s Lovers by Elizabeth Gaskell was set partially in Whitby after a visit from the author. Lewis Carroll’s first publications were in the Whitby Gazette written during his stay in 1854. Even Charles Dickens was known to frequently visit Whitby.
Seafaring Traditions
Much of Whitby’s acclaim stems from its status as a principal seaport. A Whalebone Arch, statues of William Scoresby and Captain James Cook all point to the town’s rich sea heritage. A popular attraction viewable today is a replica of Captain James Cook’s ship, Endeavor, built to scale. It is even possible to experience a ride in the famous ship throughout the year if the weather permits. Boat lovers will also enjoy walking along the wide spread Harbour, gaining general information about the Whitby culture taking note of the different types of water craft. Along the beautiful Harbour of Whitby, general information can be found on popular tourist attractions such as chartered fishing trips and pleasure cruises. Depending when the fishing fleet arrives, a fish market is held on variable days of the week at the Whitby Harbour. An auction is held to distribute the catch.
Whitby Today
Surfing, sailing and windsurfing are popular sports off the beaches between Sandsend and Whitby. Today, Whitby is a very popular tourist destination, which is popular with families and couples alike.
There are plenty of things to do in Whitby during your visit. Whitby is lovely seaside community rich in history and set against a stunning backdrop. We hope you find the information through this website useful when planning your trip.
