Things to do in Whitby

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Whitby Harbour
Whitby Harbour
Robin Hood\'s Bay Beach featuring a coastal town and street scenes as well as a large group of people
Whitby which includes a garden
Whitby which includes a small town or village, street scenes and general coastal views

Whitby Attractions

It isn't hard to find exciting things to do in Whitby. Delve into the area's history and check out all the best sights in this delightful city. Arrange your schedule now so you're raring to go once you arrive.

Explore the best sights in Whitby with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {7 fun activities in Whitby fun activities in Whitby}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning the perfect vacation.

Whitby must see attractions

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey is a set of gothic clifftop ruins that inspired the literary legend of Dracula. In addition to its ecclesiastical role, the monastery served for centuries as a landmark for sailors and inspiration for writer Bram Stoker. Enjoy a picnic on a grassy patch nearby and amble through the ruins to get a sense of the abbey’s history.
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Whitby Abbey showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

5. 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

6. 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

What to do in Whitby

Free Things to Do in Whitby

Vacationing in Whitby on a budget? The following can be experienced for nothing.

Robin Hood's Bay Museum - Find out if there are any special displays or guided tours on at this museum.

Bram Stoker memorial seat - If you're intrigued by bygone times, this is one stop you really shouldn't miss.

Falling Foss Waterfall - Slow things down and spend a little time out near the water.

Captain Cook Monument - Well known among those who reside here, this place is worth taking a look at.

St Mary's Church - Take some time for a bit of meditation or prayer at this peaceful sacred place.

Whitby Beach - Dive into an amazing novel or listen to some playlists while getting some sun.

Pannett Park - Organize a picnic and enjoy a relaxing walk around the interesting plants.

Things to Do in Whitby with Kids

Whitby has loads of nearby fun experiences for you and your kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep everyone entertained for days.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Whitby? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Whitby

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 lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.

Mallyan Spout Waterfall

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Whitby

York Minster featuring religious aspects, a church or cathedral and a square or plaza

York

Pickering

Pickering

South Bay Beach showing a coastal town and a sandy beach

Scarborough

Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough

Photo by Adam Doody

Goathland

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Photo by Mike Eccles

Guisborough

Photo by Maddie Metcalfe

Danby

Frequently asked questions

Is Whitby worth visiting?
Renowned for its walking trails and watersports, discovering cool things to do in Whitby is a breeze. Be sure to add Robin Hood's Bay Beach to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Whitby?
After you've visited popular attractions like Robin Hood's Bay Beach and Whitby Beach, spend the rest of your day discovering Whitby's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Whitby?
You can't leave without visiting Robin Hood's Bay Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Whitby.
Is three days enough to stay in Whitby?
Three days in Whitby is enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Robin Hood's Bay Beach, Whitby Beach and Whitby Pavilion are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Scarborough.
Is Whitby a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Whitby is a good place to visit on foot. Wander between Whitby Beach and Whitby Pavilion. Then take a stroll through West Cliff, located 0.4 miles from downtown, and Stainsacre, which is about 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Whitby with kids?
Deciding what to do in Whitby with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Whitby for adults?
Bram Stoker Memorial Seat is one of the main things to do in Whitby. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Whitby?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Whitby is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Robin Hood's Bay Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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