Whitby
Yorkshire, Yorkshire
Despite an association with all things spooky—goth festivals, Bram Stoker, and decrepit abbeys—Whitby remains one of the most popular seaside towns in England. Replete with natural beauty, the town is small enough to explore on foot and boasts numerous attractions that appeal to a cross section of visitors.
The Basics
Coastal Whitby makes for a family-friendly day trip or weekend destination for travelers in northern England. Explore Whitby’s dual seafaring and literary legacies on specialized tours that appeal to history and literature fans alike. Or, opt for a comprehensive group or private tour that stops by multiple points of interest.
Things to Know Before You Go
Accommodation may be limited during Whitby’s biannual Goth Weekend in spring and fall.
Be careful when shopping for Whitby Jet, a black gemstone—cheap fakes abound.
How to Get There
Situated on the east coast of Yorkshire, Whitby is easily accessible by train. Take the North Yorkshire Moors steam railway, and get off at Whitby Station. If you’re driving, take the A171 road and follow the signs for Whitby. Parking is often limited on weekends. If you’re short on time, consider joining a hassle-free tour of Whitby that includes round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
The east coast of Yorkshire isn’t known for reliably pleasant weather. To increase your chances of a sunny day, plan to visit in summer. If summer doesn’t work for you, Whitby has plenty to enjoy year-round, including Goth Weekend in spring and fall.
What to Do in Whitby
There’s no shortage of things to do in Whitby, whatever your area of interest. Explore the gothic Whitby Abbey, perched high on the craggy coastal cliffs. Or, grab some famous fish-and-chips, snap selfies near the whale bone arch (which frames a view of the town and the abbey), then wander through the Captain Cook Museum.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!