Whitby Abbey Tours

Whitby Abbey showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture
Whitby Abbey which includes heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Whitby Abbey featuring a statue or sculpture and heritage elements
Whitby Abbey which includes heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Whitby Abbey featuring heritage architecture and a church or cathedral


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

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.

Enter the Mansion Visitor Centre to see its collection of items from the abbey’s past. The visitor center is in a converted manor house and has exhibits on monastic life. Listen to dramatized speeches from monks and Bram Stoker. Interactive touch screens make learning fun for kids.

Admire the remaining parts of the monastery, today consisting of an imposing façade and many empty arches. See the ruins at night, when lights make the site glow against the night sky. Use the audio guide to learn about the various features of the monastery and its history.

Climb the 199 Steps that the mythical Dracula ascended upon his arrival to these shores. Imagine the writer ambling through these ruins on a chilly night toward the end of the 19th century, piecing together his influential masterpiece.

Learn about the history of the abbey, which also inspired the literary awakening of Cædman, the first English poet whose name history remembers. The monastery was an important religious center after being founded by King Oswy of Northumbria in the 7th century. Hear about Abbess Hilda, who ruled over the male and female monks of the original monastery.

Purchase souvenirs and fun presents with vampire themes from the site’s gift shop. Enjoy snacks and refreshments from the adjacent café with views of the abbey.

There is a fee to enter the abbey, with discounts for kids and families. The abbey is open to visitors daily from morning until late afternoon in summer. In winter, it opens only on weekends.

Whitby Abbey is east of the River Esk in the northeastern part of town. Visit the nearby attractions, such as the 199 Steps and the Church of St. Mary. A bus stop is just outside the abbey.

Plan a trip to see Whitby Abbey

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Whitby Abbey

At Whitby Abbey, explore local attractions like the stunning ruins and the picturesque coastal views. Enjoy a short walk along the scenic pathways surrounding the Abbey, perfect for rambling enthusiasts. Discover the charm of Whitby through its various walking routes, including the nearby stables and coastal trails, offering a delightful way to experience the area's natural beauty and rich history.

Food and drinks

For a taste of traditional cooked English cuisine, visit The Magpie Cafe, renowned for its fish and chips. For a Michelin-starred experience, try The Black Swan at Oldstead, located a short drive from Rosedale Abbey, where innovative dishes highlight local ingredients.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Whitby Golf Club, just 2 miles from Whitby Abbey, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst scenic landscapes. Alternatively, head to Saltburn Golf Club, also 16 miles away, for outdoor sports and breathtaking views, or catch a game at Scarborough Cricket Club.

Adventure

Experience the Spa Cliff Lift for a thrilling ride up the cliff, offering stunning views of the coastline. For hiking enthusiasts, the Scarborough to Whitby Rail Trail provides scenic landscapes and adventure vibes. If you enjoy motorsports, catch the excitement at Oliver's Mount Racing, where adrenaline fills the air.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Whitby Abbey! Catch a show at the Scarborough Open Air Theatre, enjoy the excitement at Mecca Bingo, or savor performances at the Stephen Joseph Theatre. Each venue offers a blend of culture, romance, and entertainment for an unforgettable evening.

Find the best attractions near Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey offers a rich blend of history and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit destination. Nearby attractions include beautiful beaches, historical castles, and other significant landmarks like Westminster Abbey and Bolton Abbey. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, the area around Whitby Abbey has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable visit for all travelers.

  • Whitby Harbour: Just a short stroll from Whitby Abbey, Whitby Harbour boasts stunning scenery and vibrant beach vibes. Enjoy watching fishing boats come and go while soaking in the picturesque views of the coastline.
  • Whitby Beach: Located a bit further away, Whitby Beach offers a classic British seaside experience. With its sandy stretches and gentle waves, it’s the perfect spot to relax, take a stroll, or enjoy a traditional ice cream.
  • Whitby Pavilion: A historic gem, Whitby Pavilion is not just an entertainment venue but a cultural landmark. Enjoy art exhibitions, performances, and stunning views of the coastline from its terrace, adding a touch of history to your visit.

Best time to go to Whitby Abbey

Visitor numbers around Whitby Abbey is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Whitby Abbey is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.7°F (7.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Whitby Abbey

Visiting Whitby Abbey can be budget-friendly with several savings tips. Explore free attractions like Whitby Harbour and Whitby Beach. To save on accommodations, consider visiting from November to January when prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure better rates, while last-minute deals on Expedia may offer additional savings. Use Expedia's search tools to find hotels within your budget and check for eco-friendly options. Lastly, joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn cash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Whitby Abbey are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Whitby Abbey about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your selections by hotel type; for instance, checking the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel options available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Whitby Abbey with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.