It’s famous for its stunning coastline, historic abbey and connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula – but it’s also home to a number of top-rated eateries and pubs
It’s been recognised as one of the top seaside entertainment destinations in the UK — and this charming coastal retreat has long been a popular choice among those seeking a traditional seaside getaway.
Nestled on the coast at the mouth of the River Esk, Whitby in North Yorkshire boasts a rich maritime, mineral and tourist economy.
Its appeal as a tourist hotspot is further amplified by its proximity to the North York Moors national park and the heritage coastline, not to mention its association with the spine-chilling horror novel Dracula.
The town’s most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the abbey ruin perched atop the East Cliff. Other notable features include the swing bridge spanning the river and the harbour, which is safeguarded by the grade II listed East and West piers.
Whitby’s seafaring legacy is honoured through statues of explorer Captain Cook and whaler and scientist William Scoresby, as well as the whalebone arch that crowns the West Cliff. The town also has a strong literary tradition, having featured in numerous works, television shows and films, most notably Bram Stoker’s most famous novel, reports Yorkshire Live.
According to a recent study, Whitby secured seventh place on the list of the UK’s top holiday entertainment destinations.
The survey takes into account number of pubs, restaurants, museums, parks, zoos and aquariums, water and amusement parks, arcades, beach review scores, hotel prices, Google searches, average temperature, average rainfall, and local train stations.
Where to eat in Whitby
Whitby is home to a number of top-rated eateries, from coffee shops to gastropubs and restaurants with sea views. There are three five-rated restaurants on TripAdvisor which may be the perfect place to stop off if you’re looking for a bite to eat.
The first is Lush Coffee on Silver Street, which was voted the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice for 2023. With a ‘warm welcome’ guaranteed, the coffee shop serves freshly brewed coffee, all important Yorkshire Tea, full English breakfasts, hot and cold sandwiches, toasties, burgers and a selection of homemade cakes and treats. They also offer outdoor seating and are dog friendly too.
If you’re looking for something a little fancier, then Ditto, another five-star rated place which has also won the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice for 2023, may be an option. Located a stone’s throw away from the beach on Skinner Street, the family-run restaurant is the perfect spot for foodies who want to enjoy a special meal while in the town.
Located just a few doors down, Beckett’s is the third five-star rated dining spot in Whitby, according to its 875 TripAdvisor reviews. This independent cafe delights customers with its hot drinks, savouries, breakfasts, brunch options, and cakes all lauded as “excellent quality”. You could also try Cranberry Swamp, famed for its breakfasts, Al Taco and The Postgate Country Inn.
The best pubs and places to drink in Whitby
No seaside holiday is complete without a pint, prosecco, cocktail or mocktail enjoyed out underneath the sun. From a quiet drink to a lively karaoke night, Whitby offers it all with numerous bars and pubs around the city.
The eight best pubs and bars in Whitby, ranked by TripAdvisor, are:
- The Stiddy, High Street
- The Esk, Golden Lion Bank
- Macy Browns, New Quay Road
- Middle Earth Tavern, Church Street
- Cafe Montmartre, Market Place
- The Golden Lion Inn, Golden Lion Bank
- The Met Lounge Bar, Argyle Road
- Cleveland Inn, Commondale
Where to stay in Whitby
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family staycation, there are plenty of hotels and B&B to suit every pocket. If lucky enough, you might even score a place boasting a stunning sea view.
According to TripAdvisor, Hillcrest is a top-notch hotel in the vicinity. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the town centre and a short stroll from Whitby’s shops, restaurants, pubs and attractions.
The hotel also offers storage for bikes and other adventure sports gear on site and with their local expertise they can recommend fantastic places for cycling, walking and watersports like paddle-boarding and surfing. They also boast deluxe rooms that are roomy enough for families. Other highly rated accommodations in Whitby include The Stables, The Penny Hedge Lodge and The Belfry.
What are Whitby’s beaches like?
Whitby boasts one of Yorkshire’s cleanest and safest beaches. It’s recently been awarded a Blue Flag, an international accolade given to well-maintained beaches with excellent water quality.
There are plenty of other beaches to enjoy. Whitby West Cliff Beach, a popular sandy spot with some rocky areas, is patrolled by lifeguards from May to September. The beach stretches from Upgang Beach to the mouth of the River Esk and is conveniently located on the northern edge of Whitby town, just a short walk from the town centre.
Access to the beach is available via various points along Cleveland Way, North Terrace, and North Promenade. On sunny days, families flock to the stretch of sand between Upgang Beach and West Pier. A row of vibrant beach huts can be rented, and deckchairs and windbreaks are available near the slipway at West Pier.
A seasonal dog ban is in place on Whitby West Cliff Beach from May to September, but dogs are welcome all year round on nearby Tate Hill Beach. Other well-liked beaches in Whitby include Sandsend Beach and Runswick Bay.
