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Whitby

United Kingdom · Coast · GBP · 54.485000, -0.614700
Family friendly 5.2/10 · Rank 2107 of 2 709
Best season: May-September

Best for

Sea holiday, history and Gothic atmosphere lovers, families with children, and travellers interested in literary heritage and Yorkshire nature

Best season

May-September

Daily budget
$153.00 (≈ 12 840 ₽ · ≈ 121 GBP)
For 7 days
$1 071.00 (≈ 89 878 ₽ · ≈ 846 GBP)
Whitby is a picturesque fishing town on the North Yorkshire coast, famous for its abbey ruins and connection to the novel "Dracula". The town is known for fresh seafood and traditional coal-fired bread. It is one of the most photogenic spots on England's east coast.
Summer
25.0°C
Winter
1.0°C
Sea
15.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Whitby residents are friendly, open and proud of their maritime heritage, many of whom are connected to fishing and tourism. They value traditions, love their town and are always ready to help tourists

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Impressive abbey ruins
  • Scenic harbour and beach
  • Rich maritime history and Captain Cook heritage
  • Excellent seafood restaurants
  • Gothic town atmosphere
  • Scenic Yorkshire nature

Cons

  • Cool water even in summer (maximum 15°C)
  • High prices in high season
  • Frequent rains and fog
  • No direct flights from Moscow
  • Far from major cities
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
17.5°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
18.5°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
25.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
3.5°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
6.5°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
1.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
14.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
15.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-January
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Whitby Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Jellyfish possible in summer and strong rip currents during low tide. Swimming is recommended only in lifeguard-patrolled zones

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins — found in deeper areas off the Whitby coast, stings are painful but not fatal
  • Special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Fossil corals — in the Jurassic deposits of Whitby and the surrounding area (Hackness, Ayton, Seamer), fossilised coral colonies such as Thamnastrea concinna, Thecosmilia, and Cyathophora can be found. These reefs, around 170 million years old, indicate a warm sea that once covered this area. There is no danger to swimmers as these are fossils, not living organisms.
  • Modern corals are absent in the North Sea due to the cold water, but fossil remains can be found in coastal cliffs and museum collections in Whitby.

Jellyfish — details

  • Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) — the most common species in the North Sea, appears in summer months, stings are mild but unpleasant
  • Root-mouth jellyfish (Rhizostoma octopus) — large jellyfish, less common, can cause more severe skin irritation

Sharks — details

  • Porbeagle shark (Lamna nasus) — in 2018 a 17-stone (about 108 kg) shark was caught off Whitby, large but rarely dangerous to humans
  • Tope (Galeorhinus galeus) — found in Whitby waters, a 35-40 lb specimen was caught at a fishing festival in 2023
  • Smooth-hound (Mustelus spp.) — common in coastal waters, not dangerous
Attractions

Whitby Abbey Ruins

Impressive ruins of a 7th-century Gothic abbey on a clifftop with panoramic views of the town and sea. A UNESCO World Heritage Site that inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula

199 Steps

Historic stone staircase leading from the old town to St Mary's Church and the abbey ruins, offering scenic views of the harbour

St Mary's Church

Ancient 11th-century parish church with unique wooden pews and stained glass, located next to the abbey ruins

Captain Cook Museum

Museum dedicated to the great navigator James Cook, who began his career in Whitby. The exhibition includes ship models and maps

Whitby Harbour

Scenic harbour with lighthouses, fishing boats and a promenade where you can enjoy fresh fish and chips in the best traditions of the English coast

Best areas

Old Town

Historic part of Whitby with narrow streets, independent shops, pubs and restaurants, located at the foot of the 199 Steps

West Cliff

Scenic area on the west cliff with hotels, viewpoints and panoramic views of the harbour and abbey

East Cliff

Area around the abbey ruins and St Mary's Church with breathtaking views of the town and sea

Must-try food

Fish and Chips

Classic British dish — crispy battered cod with French fries, served with mushy peas and tartar sauce. Whitby is famous for having the best fish restaurants on the coast

Smoked Kippers

Traditional Whitby smoked herring (kipper), prepared according to old recipes and served for breakfast with eggs and toast

Crab Soup

Hearty soup made from fresh crab with vegetables and spices — a popular dish in Whitby's coastal restaurants

Ice Cream

Traditional English ice cream with various toppings, a popular treat on Whitby's promenade

Where to go next

York

Historic city 70 km away with Gothic cathedral, medieval walls and the famous Shambles alley

Scarborough

Seaside resort 30 km away with beaches, castle and entertainment for the whole family

North York Moors National Park

Scenic park 20 km away with hills, heather moors and villages, ideal for hiking

Robin Hood's Bay

Scenic village 15 km away with beach, harbour and restaurants

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
medium
Getting there
Nearest airports
Дарэм Тис Вэлли Аэропорт (MME).
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Visa
Visa requirements
Schengen
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-September
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 24 GBP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 71 GBP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$140.00
≈ 11 749 ₽ · ≈ 111 GBP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$220.00
≈ 18 462 ₽ · ≈ 174 GBP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽ · ≈ 142 GBP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$110.00
≈ 9 231 ₽ · ≈ 87 GBP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$13.00
≈ 1 091 ₽ · ≈ 10 GBP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 24 GBP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 3 GBP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 5 GBP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 1 GBP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$14.00
≈ 1 175 ₽ · ≈ 11 GBP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 9 GBP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 5 GBP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 7 GBP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$130.00
≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 103 GBP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 7 GBP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 8 GBP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 40 GBP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$28.00
≈ 2 350 ₽ · ≈ 22 GBP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 16 GBP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 47 GBP
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 40 GBP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
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Frequently asked questions
Whitby: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Whitby: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +25.0°C, during the day — up to +18.5°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Whitby: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +1.0°C, during the day — up to +6.5°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Whitby: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +15.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Whitby: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-January. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Whitby: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Whitby Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Whitby: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Whitby: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Jellyfish possible in summer and strong rip currents during low tide. Swimming is recommended only in lifeguard-patrolled zones. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Whitby: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $153.00 (≈ 12 840 ₽ · ≈ 121 GBP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Whitby: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $30.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $90.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $140.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $220.00 per night, an apartment — $110.00 per night, a villa — $180.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Whitby: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $13.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.00, a 0.5L beer — $6.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Whitby: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $130.00, a single public transport ticket — $9.00, a short taxi ride — $10.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Whitby: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Whitby Abbey Ruins — Impressive ruins of a 7th-century Gothic abbey on a clifftop with panoramic views of the town and sea. A UNESCO World Heritage Site that inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula; 199 Steps — Historic stone staircase leading from the old town to St Mary's Church and the abbey ruins, offering scenic views of the harbour; St Mary's Church — Ancient 11th-century parish church with unique wooden pews and stained glass, located next to the abbey ruins; Captain Cook Museum — Museum dedicated to the great navigator James Cook, who began his career in Whitby. The exhibition includes ship models and maps; Whitby Harbour — Scenic harbour with lighthouses, fishing boats and a promenade where you can enjoy fresh fish and chips in the best traditions of the English coast. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Whitby: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Fish and Chips — Classic British dish — crispy battered cod with French fries, served with mushy peas and tartar sauce. Whitby is famous for having the best fish restaurants on the coast; Smoked Kippers — Traditional Whitby smoked herring (kipper), prepared according to old recipes and served for breakfast with eggs and toast; Crab Soup — Hearty soup made from fresh crab with vegetables and spices — a popular dish in Whitby's coastal restaurants; Ice Cream — Traditional English ice cream with various toppings, a popular treat on Whitby's promenade. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Whitby: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Old Town — Historic part of Whitby with narrow streets, independent shops, pubs and restaurants, located at the foot of the 199 Steps; West Cliff — Scenic area on the west cliff with hotels, viewpoints and panoramic views of the harbour and abbey; East Cliff — Area around the abbey ruins and St Mary's Church with breathtaking views of the town and sea. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Whitby: is a visa required?
Visa: Schengen. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Whitby: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Дарэм Тис Вэлли Аэропорт (code MME). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $130.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Whitby: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — GBP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $153.00 (≈ 12 840 ₽ · ≈ 121 GBP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Whitby: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Whitby: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Whitby: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: York — Historic city 70 km away with Gothic cathedral, medieval walls and the famous Shambles alley; Scarborough — Seaside resort 30 km away with beaches, castle and entertainment for the whole family; North York Moors National Park — Scenic park 20 km away with hills, heather moors and villages, ideal for hiking; Robin Hood's Bay — Scenic village 15 km away with beach, harbour and restaurants. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.2/10
Overall rank: 2107 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1240

Best season

May-September

Useful information

Currency: GBP
Coordinates: 54.485000, -0.614700