YOUR WHITBY GUIDE

Things to do in Whitby

BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA

Whitby was inspired by Bram Stoker for his novel and films of Dracula and the famous novelist stayed in the Town whilst writing the famous novel.

The Town has a Gothic vibe, and holds a bi-annual Goth weekend every year. Whitby Abbey, St Mary’s Churchyard and the 199 steps were a huge inspiration for his novel.

There is a Dracula experience and many shops offering Goth Style clothes and historical mementos.

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CAPTAIN COOK – The Famous Adventurer

Captain Cook was born near Whitby and he moved to the town to study his seaman’s apprenticeship with John and Henry Walker. It was during the apprenticeship that Captain Cook found his love for the seas, sailing coal ships for the Walkers. His monument stands on the West Cliff.

Cook went on to be one of the most decorated explorers of our time and set sail from Whitby during many of his voyages of discovery. There is a Captain Cook Memorial Museum located on Grape Lane which was once the house where Cook lived during his apprenticeship and in the Bay there is a replica of his famous Ship The Endeavour which is now a bar and restaurant.

WHALING

Whitby had a rich Whaling history. Perhaps the most prominent reminder is the Whalebone Arch which can be found on the top of the West Cliff close to the Captain Cook Monument.

Between 1750 and 1840 Whaling was big business in Whitby, with over 50 Whaling ships operating from Whitby Harbour. Many local families became wealthy from the industry and many local men were employed on the Whaling ships.