fbpx

Illuminated Abbey 2023, All You Need To Know

Toast marshmallows, watch live theatre and witness Whitby Abbey drenched in all the colours of the rainbow. Here’s all you need to know about Illuminated Abbey 2023.

Are you visiting Whitby this Autumn or Halloween? Then you have to go to the Illuminated Abbey event. We love to visit Whitby Abbey on a usual day and be surrounded by its immense history; however, seeing Whitby Abbey lit up for the Illuminated Abbey event is truly spectacular. Join English Heritage for an unforgettable evening of entertainment.

Due to Storm Babet affecting the setup, Illuminated Abbey’s opening night won’t be able to go ahead as planned on Sat 21st Oct. Gusts of almost 60mph lashed the North East Coast, making preparations for the event very difficult on the windswept Abbey headland. The opening night will now be Sun 22nd Oct. If you have pre-booked your ticket for Saturday 21 October, your ticket will be valid for any other night of Illuminated Abbey. If you would prefer a refund, please email [email protected] and let them know.

FREE Whitby Mini-Guide

"Get the best from your stay in Whitby."

Everything you need to know about Whitby into a free mini-guide!


Illuminated Abbey 2023

  • Date: Sun 22nd – Tue 31st October 2023
  • Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Illuminated Whitby Abbey

You will follow a trail of lights around the Abbey and meet various ghostly characters. Each one shares stories and tales of unusual events and happenings, if they talk at all! After exploring the Abbey and taking beautiful photos, you can warm up with food, drinks, and toast marshmallows. This event is a brilliant value for money and a fun Halloween celebration. Your ticket gives you access to the entire event and the museum, too, which is worth a wander around to learn about the history of this Abbey.

Actor at Illuminated Abbey

Is the event family friendly?

Yes, the event is very family-friendly; we have seen plenty of families with young children having a fantastic time. There are many things to get involved with, and it’s a great way to spend time outdoors together. There will be actors roaming around in costume that you can interact with, too; remember, they stay in character the entire time! Don’t fear; you can easily avoid them if you have small children.

Roasted chestnuts at Whitby Abbey

Will there be food and drinks available?

You can enjoy a range of tasty food and drinks along with incredible performances and illuminations. Available here will be local food vans. Head to the fire pits for toasted marshmallows and grab a drink by popping to the trailer bar, for a hot chocolate to warm up.

Fancy dress at Illuminated Abbey

Can I dress up?

Yes, dressing up is always encouraged! We love to see your costumes. Just make sure to wrap up warm as, due to its position on the cliff, Whitby Abbey can be cold and windy

How to buy tickets

The event is held outside of site opening hours; therefore, it does not include entry during the day. You can buy an admission separately to visit the site before the event.

Illuminated Whitby Abbey

You can buy your tickets on the English Heritage website. Pre-booking guarantees your entry to Illuminated Abbey on the night you choose, and buying online saves you 10%.

Come along on Friday, 27th October, for an extraordinary evening celebrating Whitby Goth Weekend. Keep an eye on their website and Facebook page for more details soon.


Halloween Half Term at Whitby Abbey

Sat 21 Oct – Sun 5 Nov 2023 

Half Term Event at Whitby Abbey.

Round up your little monsters and prepare for a ghostly day exploring Whitby Abbey! Listen to spooky stories and be inspired to create your tale of terror, just like the famous author Bram Stoker did with Dracula. You can join the fun and become a wicked witch’s apprentice by completing the booklet’s activities and discovering magical potion ingredients. Take advantage of this enchanting adventure! This is a great day out suitable for all ages. Feel free to attend in costume, too; we can’t wait to see you!

Buy your tickets here


Halloween is one of our favourite occasions to celebrate. We love this time of year, and it is so wonderful to celebrate at Whitby Abbey.

2 thoughts on “Illuminated Abbey 2023, All You Need To Know”

  1. We love the Abbey and have got tickets for Saturday 28th October. We as a family look forward to being there with you all.

    Reply

Leave a Comment