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.
A whalebone arch first appeared here some time around 1853. This was replaced in 1963 by the 20-feet (6-meter) tall jaw bones of a fin whale hunted by a Norwegian ship in the Weddell Sea, Antarctica. By the 1990s the bones had become severely weathered by sea storms and strong winds. Today’s arch was installed in 2003 and is from a bowhead whale killed legally by Inuits in the remote Alaskan town of Barrow.
Read a brief overview of the landmark and Whitby’s whaling history at the information sign set adjacent to the arch. Then admire the uninterrupted views of Whitby Harbour, the town’s lighthouses and North Sea. The arch serves as a wonderful frame for the town’s seafarer cottages, Tate Hill Beach and gothic-style Whitby Abbey. Benches set on grass verges either side offer a place to rest while you appreciate the scenery.
Located next to the arch is another of Whitby’s most recognizable landmarks, the Captain Cook Monument. It features a 7.5-feet (2.3-meter) tall bronze statue of the British explorer Captain James Cook. Look for plaques that commemorate the explorer and the town’s shipbuilders. A carving of Cook’s ship, HMS Endeavour, adorns the rear of the monument.
Located in the West Cliff neighborhood, the Whalebone Arch is a short uphill walk from Whitby Harbour. Drivers can park for a fee on the surrounding streets or use a metered car park. From the arch it’s comfortable to reach other attractions, such as Whitby Beach, Whitby Lifeboat Museum and Whitby West Pier Lighthouse, on foot.
