Here are some of the best things to do in Whitby, so you are fully prepared for your next trip.
Learn about local legends, walk in the footsteps of sailors and saints, or explore the beaches and coastal paths. We shout it from the rooftops, but Whitby does have something for everyone. In no particular order, we have rounded up fun things to do in Whitby to help you make the most of what this seaside gem offers.
Things to do in Whitby, activities and attractions
Tour the Captain Cook Memorial Museum
- Learn more about Captain Cook while in Whitby.
- Family-friendly museum.
- Hosts events.
- No dogs.
If you're interested in Captain Cook's life, Whitby is the perfect place to visit. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum is inside John Walker's house on Grape Lane.
Whitby Mini Guide
We have created a FREE mini-guide with all the essential information about Whitby, now available for instant download.
Visitors can explore the attic, which is believed to have been Cook's residence while he was on land. A model of Cook's ship, the Resolution, and a letter he wrote to Captain Hammond are also displayed. In addition to these items, the museum has several other historical artefacts to enjoy.
Find further information here.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Grape Lane, Whitby YO22 4BA
Take a ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
- See the North York Moors by rail.
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome at £3 per dog per day.
- Members may bring dogs for free.
- Family-friendly.
- Hosts events.
For an unforgettable day out, climb on board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and experience breathtaking landscapes paired with delightful vintage appeal.
Glide across the North York Moors National Park on a steam or vintage diesel train, making station stops along the way, including Goathland, which served as the original Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, as well as Aidensfield from the beloved 90s show Heartbeat.
Throughout the year, NYMR hosts a variety of special events.
Find further information here.
NYMR, Station Square, Whitby YO21 1YN
Enjoy one of Whitby's many beaches
- Mixture of sand, sand and shingle and rocky beaches.
- Lifeguarded beaches.
- Family-friendly beaches.
- Dog-friendly beaches.
It is likely the main reason many people visit Whitby – the beautiful beaches!
There are several beaches to enjoy, with the main beach along the West Cliff. This beach stretches to Sandsend; you can walk the whole way when the tide is out. Ensure you have plenty of time to walk back and check the tide times.
Tate Hill Sands is also a dog-friendly beach on the East Side of town, which is very popular in summer.
Click for a list of Whitby's fantastic beaches.
Tate Hill Beach, Whitby YO21 3PT
Climb the 199 Steps to St Mary's Churchyard
- Historical attraction.
- The steep steps will pose a challenge for those with mobility issues.
- Dog-friendly.
Climbing the 199 Steps to St Mary's Church is a must on your list of things to do in Whitby. These steps are well known for being mentioned in Bram Stoker's Dracula, but they are also an incredible sight to see in their own right.
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.
Find further information here.
199 Steps, Whitby YO22 4DE
Brave The Dracula Experience
- Indoor attraction.
- Strobe lighting, enclosed spaces
- Family friendly 6+.
- No dogs.
The Dracula Experience in Whitby provides a thrilling and entertaining experience that will send shivers down your spine!
Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Bram Stoker's legendary Dracula, which has ties to Whitby. Are you ready to see Bram Stoker’s famous literary character come to life while uncovering its ties to the town?
The Dracula Experience is the perfect opportunity to revisit the chilling adventures that have kept Count Dracula's legacy alive for generations.
Learn more about The Dracula Experience here.
The Dracula Experience, Marine Parade, Whitby YO21 3PR
Visit the historic Whitby Abbey
- Family-friendly.
- Book online, save 15%.
- Visitor centre and museum.
- Parking and accessible parking.
- Dog-friendly.
Whitby Abbey is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the seaside town, and most visitors go out of their way to see it!
The Benedictine Abbey is an impressive sight, yet another connection to Bram Stoker's Dracula. Situated on top of Whitby's East Cliff, Whitby Abbey is operated and maintained by English Heritage.
Several events are held at the Abbey throughout the year, with the Illuminated Abbey spectacle around Halloween being a particular highlight.
Learn more about Whitby Abbey here.
Whitby Abbey, Abbey Ln, Whitby YO22 4JT
Try crabbing in Whitby Harbour
- Family-friendly activity.
- Treat the crabs carefully, put them back, and don't hold them in buckets for long periods.
- Ensure you take your rubbish and dispose of your crabbing gear correctly, as wildlife can easily get caught in an old fishing line.
Named ‘doggering’ by locals, crabbing is a simple but fun activity where you use a single fishing line with a 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 lots of patience. We promise you'll spend hours enjoying this simple pastime once you start.
Read our step-by-step guide to crabbing in Whitby Harbour.
Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Spend your pennies at Whitby's amusements
- Family-friendly.
- Located next to the harbour.
- Indoor activities.
- Dog-friendly.
Fun City and Funland Amusements are open along the harbour and are good places to entertain the children. After walking around for most of the day, there is no harm in allowing the kids to play a few games and have fun on some of the rides. You can try your luck trying to win a soft toy or spend your loose change in the penny machines.
There is a fantastic pirate-themed indoor crazy golf course and an indoor ten-pin bowling alley. Plenty of arcade-type games and a dedicated area for 18+ gambling machines are also available.
Click here for seven reasons kids love Whitby.
Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Take a stroll through Pannett Park
- Family-friendly.
- Children's play area.
- Jurassic garden.
- Hosts events.
- No dogs.
Pannett Park is a wonderful place to take a stroll. It is a great place that the whole family can enjoy. Pannett Park offers peace, beautifully maintained gardens, and wooded areas.
Pannett Park is just a short stroll from the town centre. Its well-maintained play area is perfect for small children.
Find further information about Pannett Park here.
Pannett Park, Whitby YO21 1RE
Go back in time at Whitby Museum
- Family-friendly.
- Cafe.
- Indoor attraction.
- Hosts events.
- No dogs.
Whitby Museum was established in the early 1800s to display remarkable fossils collected by ship captains. Maintaining its authentic Victorian appeal over the years, the museum and art gallery house an impressive array of beautiful artwork and historical artefacts spanning over a century.
Whitby Museum illustrates the history of this coastal town from the Jurassic era to today. Its eclectic collection features various intriguing items, including fossils, costumes, model ships, and various curiosities. This museum invites visitors of all ages and interests.
The building also accommodates the Pannett Art Gallery, which showcases permanent exhibitions of works by the Weatherill family and other esteemed local artists, alongside a dedicated space for the Staithes group of artists. Additionally, the gallery regularly hosts changing exhibitions.
Find further information about Whitby Museum here.
Pannett Park, Whitby Museum, Whitby YO21 1RE
Watch a show at Whitby Pavilion Theatre
- Family-friendly.
- Cafe.
- Indoor attraction.
- Hosts events.
- No dogs.
Great shows often occur at Whitby Pavilion, so you should always check it out whenever you visit the area. They also have a lovely cafe area and a cinema, so there is no shortage of things to keep you entertained.
Find further information about Whitby Pavilion here.
Whitby Pavilion, West Cliff, Whitby YO21 3EN
Try kippers at Fortune's Shop and Smokehouse
- Founded in 1872.
- The kippers are a ‘Smoked Herring’. The kippers are caught in Norway.
- Kippers and products are available only from the premises!
This is one of the most traditional businesses in Whitby. Fortune's still smokes kippers like they used to all those years ago. Fortune's shop and smokehouse are located at the end of Henrietta Street. When you reach the bottom of the 199 steps, you may even be able to smell them!
Fortunes was founded by William Fortune in 1872. The Fortune family has been managing the business for generations, and its fifth generation is currently running it. They continue to use traditional techniques to create well-loved Whitby kippers.
Learn more about Fortune's here.
Henrietta St, Whitby YO22 4DW, United Kingdom
Take to the water with Whitby Surf School
- Surf shop.
- Surf and SUP lessons.
- Suitable for a range of ages.
- Clubs for different ages and abilities.
Looking out over the golden sand and rolling waves of Whitby beach, Whitby Surf School is the ideal place to learn to surf in the North East.
The blue-flagged, award-winning beach provides perfect conditions to dive headfirst into a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping experience in the North Sea. Whether it's your first time surfing at Whitby or looking for some extra tuition before you take to heading out on your own, their fully qualified instructors are passionate about making the session as fun and exciting as it can be.
They also provide a wide range of quality surf and beach equipment to hire, so you can take full advantage of the North Sea and everything this beach has to offer.
Find further information about Whitby Surf School here.
Lower Cliff lift, West Cliff Beach, Whitby YO21 3EN
Eat fish and chips at Whitby Bandstand, but watch out for seagulls!
You can't come to Whitby and then not try to sample some of the local fish and chips. One of the most popular things in Whitby is enjoying fish and chips at the beach or the harbour. Just make sure you don't let the seagulls steal your chips!
Best places for fish and chips in Whitby.
Whitby Bandstand, Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Take a ride on the Whitby Town Open Top Bus Sightseeing Tour
- Whitby tour tickets are valid for 24 hours.
- Boarding the open-top bus is easy; pay the driver when you hop on.
- The service runs hourly, every 30 minutes from April to September, seven days a week.
- You can hop on and off the tour as often as you like.
- The fully guided tour takes approximately one hour and runs daily from April to November.
- Dog-friendly.
If you want to see Whitby, then the open-top bus tour is something you should consider. The tour takes you around all of the major tourist attractions in the town while you enjoy fantastic views. You can hop on and off the sightseeing tour as often as you like.
Enjoy magnificent seascapes and Whitby's narrow, winding streets as the open-top bus climbs steeply to the impressive ruins of Whitby Abbey.
Learn more about the Whitby Open Top Bus Tour.
East Terrace, Whitby YO22 4DN
Take part in a ghost walk
- Family-friendly tours are available.
- Suitable for a range of ages.
- Ghost and history tours.
If you enjoy Whitby's darker history, you will enjoy a ghost walk around the town. One of the providers we recommend is Rose Rylands. She is a locally born storyteller who shares intimate knowledge of the coast and surroundings, along with local folklore, history, mysteries, and legends. She runs ghost walks in Robin Hood’s Bay and Whitby.
If you fancy something a little more theatrical, try Red Hat Ghost Walk. This is a fun and lighthearted ghost walk where you will learn tales of ghosts, witches, headless horsemen, severed hands and hobgoblins!
Click here for Whitby's ghost walks.
Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Take a look inside the Whitby RNLI Lifeboat Museum
- Free to enter, donations appreciated.
- Well-presented displays.
- Family-friendly.
- Souvenir shop.
Since 1802, Whitby's dedicated crew of lifeboats has aided those in peril on the sea. You can explore their remarkable efforts and lifesaving missions at the Whitby RNLI Lifeboat Museum.
Originally an RNLI lifeboat station, the museum is housed in a Victorian double boathouse, honing Whitby's prestigious lifeboat heritage. Inside, you'll find a wealth of artefacts, including paintings, medals, photographs, and keepsakes from notable wrecks and rescues.
Click here for more information about the Whitby RNLI Lifeboat Museum.
Whitby RNLI Lifeboat Museum, Pier Rd, Whitby YO21 3PU
Try fossil hunting along the Yorkshire Coast
- Activity for all ages.
- Great way to explore the coastline.
- Check tide times prior.
Children and adults alike can go hunting for fossils along the beaches of Whitby. This is a great pastime; you may uncover hidden gems if you're lucky!
The beaches to the north and south of Whitby yield prehistoric finds of many varieties. Ammonites, reptile remains, and shells are easy to stumble upon while walking. And, of course, Whitby is famous for Jet, which is similarly easy to find if you know where to look.
There are several places along the Whitby coast where you can find Whitby fossils – it's simply a case of local knowledge and a little luck. Saltwick Bay is our favourite.
Learn more about fossil hunting in Whitby.
Saltwick Bay, Whitby YO22 4JX
Stop for a beer at Whitby Brewery
- Outdoor seating.
- Children and dogs are welcome.
- View of Whitby Abbey.
- Serves great pizza!
Whitby Brewery has been producing delightfully delicious Yorkshire ales since 2013. The brewery was built by local Whitby craftsmen by hand and has proven perfect for brewing cracking Yorkshire ales. They use only the finest floor-malted barley and whole hops to make some of the best beers.
Whitby Brewery is the perfect place (especially on a sunny day) to enjoy beer, pizza, live music, and exceptional Abbey views.
Find further information about Whitby Brewery here.
Whitby Brewery, East Cliff, Whitby YO22 4JR
Jump on board a boat trip
- Family-friendly options.
- Great to see Whitby from the water.
- Dog-friendly trips.
- Sightseeing and wildlife watching trips.
Bark Endeavour Cruise: Cruise along the harbour and experience firsthand the historical impact that Captain Cook had on the town and indeed on the country as a whole. There are regular daily sailings throughout the year. Located in Whitby Harbour at the Fish Quay, close to the West Pier opposite Whitby Amusements. Dogs are allowed on the trip for free.
Whitby Coastal Cruises: Their 20-minute trips along the coast towards Sandsend run every day. Under 5s go free! Board at Brewery Steps on the harbourside. No booking is needed for 20-minute sailings, so walk aboard. They operate several yellow boats out of Whitby Harbour. Summer Queen and Esk Belle III take trips out to sea, while Dash II provides river tours on the Esk. Along with daily sea trips, they run several special trips that offer the opportunity to see some fantastic wildlife and enjoy dramatic sunsets from the sea.
Pirate Boat Trip: This is a fantastic little boat ride out to sea and back with a Pirate theme. The pirate crew makes it an exciting adventure from start to finish. There are many photo opportunities onboard and with Pirates back on land. The trip lasts 20-25 minutes, and there are plenty of dressing-up costumes and props for everyone to get in character.
Find further information about Whitby boat trips here.
Try Eskape Whitby escape room
- Family-friendly.
- Great for a date night.
- 60 minutes to escape!
These escape rooms, situated a short distance from the Abbey and the town, allow you to use your puzzle-solving prowess to work with your friends and solve their themed mystery rooms. Each room has its theme while incorporating local history, myths, and legends snippets. You will have 60 minutes. So why not add one of these experiences to your list of things to do in this beautiful seaside town?
Eskape Whitby, St. Hilda's Business Centre, The Ropery, Whitby, YO22 4ET
A little further afield
Have fun at Flamingo Land
- Family-friendly.
- Theme park and zoo.
- Food and accommodation options.
The Flamingo Land Resort is another excellent place to visit, particularly if you have kids and want to keep them happy for a few hours. You can take the kids to look at all the different animals and then stay for some food.
Flamingo Land is about 45 minutes outside of Whitby. The park offers plenty of rides and themed days throughout the year, and now offers overnight accommodation.
The Flamingo Land Zoo is packed with various birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Zoos, Animal Parks and Farms near Whitby.
Flamingo Land, Kirby Misperton, Malton, North Yorkshire
Take a ride along the Esk River with Ruswarp Pleasure Boats
- Family-friendly activity.
- Well-behaved dogs welcome
- All under-16s MUST be supervised at all times.
Many people enjoy having a nice, slow sail down the River Esk. With Ruswarp Pleasure Boats, you can take a boat trip through one of the more secluded areas of the River Esk Valley.
You can enjoy the breathtaking scenery in peace. They cater for parties of all sizes with traditional rowing boats. They also have canoes and SUP boards. School parties are also welcome; inspection before visiting is not a problem.
Click for more information about Ruswarp.
Ruswarp Pleasure Boats, The Carrs, Ruswarp, Whitby YO21 1RL
Visit Eden Camp
- Dog friendly.
- Eco-friendly adventure play area.
- On-site parking.
- Picnic areas.
Eden Camp Modern History Museum is a family-owned and operated business that started over 30 years ago. It has become known as one of the most prominent museums in the United Kingdom dedicated to military history. The exhibits cover a timeline of events from around 1914 onwards.
It's essential to ensure you have a good few hours to walk around the whole thing. Eden Camp also holds several special event days throughout the year.
Eden Camp is a museum with a difference. It is historical, educational, exciting, and appealing to all ages.
Click to learn more about Eden Camp.
Eden Camp, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 6RT
Visit Robin Hood's Bay
- 13-minute drive from Whitby.
- You can walk to Robin Hood's Bay via the Cleveland Way.
- Independent shops.
- Dog-friendly beach.
Robin Hood's Bay was once a major smuggling haven on the Yorkshire coast. Today, it has been transformed into a small tourist town that is a short drive from Whitby. It should undoubtedly be on your list of places to visit. Park at the top of the bay and walk down the winding path until you come to the beach at the bottom.
View our list of things to do in Robin Hood's Bay.
Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby YO22 4SN
Visit Staithes
- 22-minute drive from Whitby.
- You can walk to Staithes via the Cleveland Way.
- Independent shops.
- Dog-friendly beach.
Staithes is a beautiful little fishing village along the coast just north of Whitby. It feels like a village frozen in time.
It has a few connections with Captain Cook and the Cod and Lobster Pub at the bottom of the hill. The latter offers great food at great prices throughout the day. The pub is dog-friendly and has a selection of ales, tea, and coffee.
The beach is popular at low tide; keep an eye out for seals; they regularly pop up in the harbour looking for fish from the local fishermen.
Click here for further information on visiting Staithes.
Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 5AD
Visit the stunning Falling Foss Tea Garden
- 30-foot waterfall surrounded by woodland.
- Family friendly.
- Tea garden.
- Short walk from parking.
- Dog friendly.
Around 6 miles from Whitby is Falling Foss waterfall, a stunning 30-foot waterfall surrounded by woodland. There's even a cosy tea room hidden in the forest to enjoy.
The Falling Foss Tea Garden is ideal for a few minutes to enjoy a cup of tea and a cake. As you sit outside and listen to the sound of the flowing water, you will have a fantastic view of a waterfall.
There is a good car park at Sneaton Forest that you can use when visiting the waterfall. Click here for the Forestry Commission Car Park.
Falling Foss Tea Room, Midge Hall, Whitby YO22 5JD
Take a journey across the North York Moors to Goathland
- 20-minute drive from Whitby.
- Traditional village shops.
- Location for the television show Heartbeat.
Goathland has become an increasingly popular tourist destination over the years. For several decades, it was the location for the television show Heartbeat. The train station is also linked to the Harry Potter films, so there is no shortage of things to see.
Goathland Train Station is a must-visit. If you're lucky, you will experience the NYMR steam trains passing through the station. Stand on the railway bridge and enjoy the steam trains passing beneath you—it's an incredible thrill.
How to spend a day in Goathland.
Cow Wath Bank, Goathland, Whitby YO22 5NF
Finally, take a drive or walk across the North York Moors
If you have the time, we highly recommend walking within the North York Moors and visiting some of the many villages. You can visit villages like Egton Bridge, Glaisdale, and Beck Hole.
Many walking routes in the area go through some of the villages. Why not stop for lunch and liquid refreshments at one of the many country pubs? Or have ice cream and admire the view!
If you enjoyed this article on things to do in Whitby, please share it. You can suggest a place, activity or attraction for inclusion in this article by commenting or contacting us. Have a great trip!
What about a whale watching trips or a cruise to see the seals at Ravenscar with Whitby whale watching and coastal cruises on the yellow boats
Thank you for the recommendation Jill. Please feel free to submit a blog post on the subject if you wish and ill happily feature it on the blog.
Seconded. This was a highlight of our last trip to Whitby
Explore Whitby in a unique way with two self guided treasure hunt style walks around this gorgeous fishing town. Buy or instantly download from http://www.curiousabout.co.uk/whitby and explore in your own time. Booklet contains a detailed route map, some historical snippets about the town, pictures to identify amd answers to find.
Whitby has the best Shoe Shop in the land. The Whitby Cobbler on Baxtergate. All the shoes are beautiful and handmade. Worth a visit.
There’s not many touring caravan sites near by so you can leave your vehicle and walk into Whitby that i could find more the pitty
Great article, just one small point – Grassington and Hawes are in the Yorkshire Dales not the North York Moors, bit of a trek!!
Hi Liz, thank you for your comment. We’ve updated the article to include villages in the North Yorkshire Moors.
This is a really useful article. I would also promote the shops in Whitby. From the children’s point of view, there is a lowly glass blowing shop on the steps, which i recall from my childhood, and my kids loved it. We bought a few beautiful little glass creatures. There is also a lovely fudge making shop which is a real treat!