We've all posed on Whitby's 199 Steps. Here's further information about Whitby's favourite photo op.
These steps have been the subject of folklore, literary inspiration, and countless tourist photographs for centuries. Here, we look at Whitby's 199 Steps' history and allure and answer frequently asked questions.
History of the 199 Steps
The 199 steps, known as the Church Stairs, lead from the Old Town to St. Mary's Churchyard. The first known record of the steps is from 1340, but it is believed they were made long before this. You might also find the 199 Steps in Whitby referred to as the ‘Church Steps’ or ‘Jacob’s Ladder’. Both of these are biblical or religious references.
Believe it or not, the steps were made of wood and stood for hundreds of years until 1774, when they were replaced with Sneaton Stone. Some historians believe that St. Hilda used the steps to confirm the faith of her followers. This was a test of Christian faith for those who wished to worship in St Mary’s Church.
As you ascend the steps, you sense history and spirituality intertwined in this ancient pathway.
Are there 199 steps? Count them as you climb!
So, are there 199 steps? Despite their name, there is much dispute over the number of steps.
Some people believe there are 198 because you shouldn't count the final step to the top, as this is not a step; it is, in fact, the top. Others believe there are 200 because of the step from the bottom onto Church Street.
The 10th and last steps are numbered with Roman numerals, so you no longer have to count them.
But where's the fun in that?
Why are there benches on the 199 steps?
Before the benches on the 199 steps were used to catch your breath and take in a fantastic Whitby view, they were also used as another way to rest.
Before the 19th century, when St Mary’s was still open for burials, there was a tradition to be carried up the steps rather than giving relatives an easier journey and having their bodies carried in a horse and carriage along Green Lane.
Can you imagine how extremely tiring carrying a body up 199 steps would be? Therefore, wooden planks were built to support the coffin and give the pall-bearers a rest, though official pall-bearers weren’t always used.
Again, as tradition would have it, men were often carried by their male companions, women by female friends and family members, and children by children.
The tradition went on for hundreds of years, with the last coffin carried up the steps dating back to 1933. It belonged to Reverend George Austen.
Are the 199 steps challenging to climb?
The steps can be quite steep and may pose a challenge for those with mobility issues, but the breathtaking views from the top are worth the effort.
If you cannot take on the climb or fancy a more leisurely trip up to the top, you can hop on the Whitby Open Top Bus instead.
When is the best time of day to visit the steps?
There is no best time. Of course, the experience is nicer when it is quieter and you can take your time. Visiting the steps at different times of the day can offer unique experiences. Whether it's the misty morning air or the golden glow of sunset, each time of day provides a different feel.
Dracula ran up the steps!
Another reason the 199 steps are famous is that they are mentioned in Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. After the shipwreck, Dracula runs up the famous 199 steps to the graveyard in St Mary’s Church in the shape of a black dog. It is believed that Stoker was inspired by Whitby's hauntingly beautiful scenery and the looming presence of St. Mary's Church when writing his gothic tale.
Or try the Donkey Road (Donkey Track)
The super-steep, cobbled donkey road parallels the more famous 199 steps. If you're wearing good shoes, walk down via the Donkey Road next to the steps.
This is Grade 1 listed and, for some, a far more memorable experience than the steps. Plus, almost no one uses it!
Why are the 199 steps today so famous?
In 1988, Prince Charles (now King Charles III) contributed to a £12,000 renovation project. However, in 2004, the bottom end of the steps was sinking, making their declaration unsafe. Residents came together for a public appeal, gathering funds from 199 donors, each contributing £1,000 to make the steps safe for public use once again.
Today, you'll notice small circular discs with Roman numerals to help you count the steps. Railings are installed from top to bottom.
With views like this, it's no wonder they are so famous! You get some of Whitby's most spectacular views from the cliff as you climb the steps. Then, you are rewarded with a wander around the churchyard and spend time exploring the ruins of the famous Abbey.
The 199 Steps in Whitby have proven to be more than a means of reaching the church at the top!
