Things to do in West Cliff

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Captain Cook Monument
Captain Cook Monument
Captain Cook Monument showing a statue or sculpture, a square or plaza and general coastal views
Captain Cook Monument
Captain Cook Monument

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West Cliff must see attractions

1. Scarborough Open Air Theatre

Scarborough Open Air Theatre is a mixed entertainment venue set on a lake in Scarborough’s Northstead Manor Gardens. Its stage is on an island in the middle of the water while the audience has seating on the eastern bank. Throughout the summer months Scarborough Open Air Theatre has a busy schedule of music, theater and sporting events.
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Scarborough Open Air Theatre

2. Whitby Harbour

Spend a day enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Whitby Harbour. Townsfolk once said that the only road into Whitby is the sea and for centuries Whitby Harbour has been the town’s beating heart. The harbor flanks both sides of the River Esk, where shipbuilders and fishermen ply their trade on the riverbanks. At the same time, locals and tourists frequent the seafood shacks, cultural and entertainment attractions.
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Whitby Harbour

3. Whitby Beach

Whitby Beach commands a spectacular North Sea setting backed by cliffs and framed by Whitby Harbour and a dramatic headland. This beach has Blue Flag status, which means it meets certain criteria for amenities, cleanliness and water quality. Visit Whitby Beach for a fun-filled day admiring the sea views and geological formations, splashing in the cool water and watching pretty sunsets.
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Whitby Beach

4. Robin Hood's Bay Beach

Robin Hood’s Bay Beach is a charming sandy opening on the eastern side of a small fishing village. The picturesque beach lies at the foot of the quaint hilly streets of its namesake village and is a part of the North York Moors National Park. Enjoy the steep walk down to the beach via narrow alleys from the summit of the village.
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Robin Hood\'s Bay Beach which includes a coastal town, cafe lifestyle and signage

5. North Bay Beach

North Bay Beach is a tranquil stretch of golden sand with restaurants, beach cabins and family activities. It is the quieter and wilder of Scarborough’s two main beaches, a little farther out from the town center. Trek with your family past the picturesque outcrops and rock pools to the main sandy area and headland.
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North Bay Beach showing a sandy beach and a coastal town as well as a large group of people

6. Whitby Pavilion

Whitby Pavilion is a one-stop venue for entertainment set on Whitby’s seafront. Established in 1878, it features an auditorium with a proscenium arch and 380 seats, which can be removed to create a traditional dance hall. Whitby Pavilion also has a cinema, exhibition hall and splendid views of Whitby Beach.
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Whitby Pavilion

7. Whalebone Arch

The Whalebone Arch stands on a hilltop backdropped by the picturesque cliffs, cottages and harbor of Whitby. It commemorates the whaling trade that once flourished in Whitby and the brave boatmen that battled rough seas while seeking their fortune. Learn about an important part of Whitby’s history at the Whalebone Arch and take photos of the town’s postcard-perfect landscapes.
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Whalebone Arch

8. Captain Cook Monument

On the West Cliff of Whitby, visit the Captain Cook Monument, which overlooks the deep-blue waters of the North Sea. This century-old statue honors Captain James Cook, one of the first Europeans to navigate the east coast of Australia and New Zealand. Enjoy the splendid views from the monument. Spot major landmarks of Whitby, the town where Cook trained as a merchant navy apprentice and worked on ships trading to Baltic countries.
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Captain Cook Monument

What to do in West Cliff

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in West Cliff

Whitby Harbour

Whitby Harbour

4.5/5(11 reviews)

With two picturesque lighthouses, a beach, historic boats, pubs and museums, Whitby’s medieval harbor is the lifeblood of this Yorkshire seaside town.

Whitby Harbour
Whitby Beach

Whitby Beach

4.5/5(5 reviews)

From sunbathing and swimming in summer to enjoying long walks and searching for marine life in tidal pools, Whitby’s coastline is great to explore year round.

Whitby Beach
Robin Hood\'s Bay Beach which includes a coastal town, cafe lifestyle and signage

Robin Hood's Bay Beach

5/5(6 reviews)

Explore the rugged coastline and beach of this quirky coastal village where smugglers hid contraband using a network of tunnels.

Robin Hood's Bay Beach
Whitby Abbey showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Whitby Abbey

5/5(14 reviews)

Unravel the story behind Dracula in this dramatic 13th-century monastery and enjoy its intricate carvings, fascinating stories and spectacular coastal views.

Whitby Abbey
Whitby Pavilion

Whitby Pavilion

Overlooking Whitby Bay is a Victorian-era theater that hosts a range of concerts, movie screenings, plays and festivals.

Whitby Pavilion
Whitby Beach

West Cliff Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at West Cliff Beach during your trip to Whitby? While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

West Cliff Beach
Whalebone Arch

Whalebone Arch

This replica of a whale’s jaw bone stands as a reminder of the whaling industry that thrived in Whitby during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Whalebone Arch
Whitby Lighthouse

Whitby Lighthouse

Learn about the local history of Stainsacre when you take a trip to Whitby Lighthouse. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.

Whitby Lighthouse
Worth the sweat inducing walk down and scramble over the rocks. Make sure you have good footwear.

Mallyan Spout Waterfall

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mallyan Spout Waterfall during your travels in Whitby. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this culturally rich area.

Mallyan Spout Waterfall

 

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Popular day trips from West Cliff

Whitby Harbour

Whitby

Photo "Ruswarp" by Stephen McCulloch (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Stephen McCulloch (CC BY-SA)

Ruswarp

Frequently asked questions

Is West Cliff worth visiting?
Renowned for its history and bars and pubs, discovering awesome things to do in West Cliff is a cinch. Remember to add Whitby Beach to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in West Cliff?
Whitby Beach is a good place to start your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in West Cliff while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in West Cliff?
Whitby Beach is rated the top tourist attraction near West Cliff, so don't leave without checking it out.
Is three days enough to stay in West Cliff?
With a three-day getaway to West Cliff, you can easily discover the area's many awesome sights, such as Whitby Beach and Whitby Pavilion.
Is West Cliff a walkable neighborhood?
That really depends on what you plan to see in and around West Cliff. Several sights, including Whitby Beach, are accessible on foot. Fancy a stroll through other neighborhoods nearby? Stainsacre is 2 miles from West Cliff.
What are some activities to do in West Cliff with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in West Cliff with kids.

What to do in West Cliff for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in West Cliff for adults including Bram Stoker Memorial Seat.
Are there free things to do in West Cliff?
Near West Cliff, Whitby Beach is a terrific spot for anyone wanting to experience this area without dipping into their pocket. Also, wander through green spaces and other neighborhoods nearby, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's one of the simplest ways to find out about the top free things to do in West Cliff.