Whitby is a fabulous place to visit if you enjoy Bram Stoker's timeless classic, Dracula. Here are our favourite things to do in Whitby if you love Dracula.
Whitby captured Bram Stoker's imagination, and it's so much more than a seaside destination. This article is perfect for any literature lover, Dracula fan, or someone who appreciates a touch of the macabre. Whitby has great things to do if you love Dracula; here are our favourites.
1. Of course, we have to start with a visit to Whitby Abbey
Throughout Stoker’s novel, various elements of Whitby are featured; however, any Dracula reader will understand how impactful Whitby Abbey is to the story. So, of course, we have to start with a visit to Whitby Abbey.
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Sitting still on the East Cliff, the ruins of this 7th-century Christian monastery dominate the skyline and offer breathtaking views of the North Sea. The abbey’s haunting presence and Gothic architecture inspired Bram Stoker as he crafted the tale of Dracula.
Activities:
- Explore the ruins: Wander through the abbey's haunting remains, imagining the grandeur and the eerie silence that Stoker described.
- Visit Whitby Abbey Museum: Visit the museum to learn about the abbey's history and its influence on Stoker's writing.
- Photography: Capture stunning photos of the ruins, especially at dusk when the abbey has a Gothic feel.
- Visit Illuminated Abbey: Visit Whitby Abbey over Halloween, see the story of Dracula come to life and witness the Abbey lit up in an array of colours!
2. Explore St. Mary’s Church and Churchyard
Just a short walk from Whitby Abbey, St. Mary's Church and its atmospheric graveyard overlook the town and the sea. This is where Lucy Westenra, one of Dracula’s victims, is first attacked. The churchyard's tombstones and weathered crosses add to the Gothic ambience.
Activities:
- Take a graveyard walk: Stroll through the graveyard. Do you think any of the graves inspired Stoker’s descriptions?
- Visit St Mary's Church: Explore the church's interior, which has remained largely unchanged since Stoker's time.
- Take a ghost walk: Local guides often give ghost walks and tell ghost stories and tales of the supernatural that will enhance your Dracula-esq experience.
3. Climb the 199 steps just like Dracula
The 199 Steps, leading from the town to the abbey and churchyard, play a significant role in Dracula. In the form of a dog, Count Dracula bounded up these steps to reach the graveyard.
Activities:
- Climb the steps: Ascend the 199 steps, just as characters in the novel did. The climb is rewarded with spectacular views of Whitby.
- Photos: You can get fabulous photos on the 199 steps, just like me dressed as a vampire!
4. Take part in The Whitby Dracula Experience, immersive storytelling
For a more theatrical encounter, the Whitby Dracula Experience on Marine Parade offers an immersive walk-through experience that brings the novel to life. It blends special effects and detailed sets. The Dracula Experience is a great way to relive the terror that has allowed Count Dracula to exist after decades.
When you look at the reviews on TripAdvisor, you will notice quite a mixture! We enjoyed the experience, but we went to have fun and learn a little more about Dracula and Whitby rather than be scared. For the price, we think it’s a great addition to a day in Whitby.
Activities:
- Interactive tour: Participate in an interactive tour that takes you through the major scenes of Dracula.
- Costumed characters: Sometimes, you can even meet characters from the novel who recount their tales and bring the story to life.
5. Follow the Dracula Trail
Whitby offers a self-guided Dracula Trail that takes you through the town’s most significant sites related to the novel. Follow the trail at your own pace, visiting locations inspired by or featured in Dracula.
It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about Bram Stoker’s connections to Whitby while having fun exploring the town. Following the trail, you’ll discover exciting facts about Bram Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula, and see the places that inspired the author.
The fangs and a cape are optional! – Click here to follow the trail.
6. Get yourself some Whitby Jet: The Dark Gemstone
Whitby is famous for its jet, a dark, lustrous gemstone crafted into jewellery for centuries. In the Victorian era, jet jewellery was popular for mourning attire, adding a touch of Gothic elegance.
You can purchase a Whitby Jet or look for it yourself. Beachcombing is a great way to find a jet and a fun way to spend time. Tate Hill is a great place to start. It’s a small beach located within the harbour entrance. It’s a popular place to relax and take in the beautiful views. Robin Hood’s Bay, Runswick Bay, and Staithes are also great locations to search for your own jet.
Activities:
- Shopping: Visit local shops to purchase Whitby jet jewellery, a perfect memento of your Dracula-themed visit.
- Beachcombing: Try to find a jet yourself on one of Whitby's or the surrounding areas' beaches.
- Jet workshop: Some shops have workshops where you can learn about jet.
7. Visit for festivals and events
Whitby hosts various festivals and events annually, celebrating its rich literary heritage. The Whitby Goth Weekend, in particular, is a bi-annual event that attracts Goths and Dracula fans worldwide.
This fabulous event started when a group of around forty pen pals decided it was time to meet. They did this in the Elsinore pub in Whitby, and a tradition began. Of course, over the years, the WGW has grown and developed into the significant event it is today. Whitby was chosen for its connection to Dracula and its gothic feel.
Attend the Whitby Goth Weekend to enjoy live music, markets, and themed events.
As fans of Dracula and all things gothic, we just love a visit to Whitby. From exploring the ruins of Whitby Abbey to joining in on the ghost walks and learning long-loved ghostly tales about the town, Whitby offers a rich and atmospheric adventure.
Whether you’re a devoted fan of Bram Stoker’s novel or intrigued by its dark allure, Whitby promises an unforgettable experience steeped in history, mystery, and the supernatural.
Checkout our video: Dracula’s Whitby: The Real Places and Tales That Inspired Bram Stoker
In this video, we explore the real locations Bram Stoker visited, the local legends he heard, and how they fed his imagination to create the timeless tale of Count Dracula.
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