Whitby, England: Best Seaside Holiday in North Yorkshire, England

Kelly Herdrich
Visitors to England looking to see the beach, an abbey, and see some of the places mentioned in Bram Stoker's Dracula don't need to look any further than Whitby. This North Yorkshire seaside resort town boasts each of the above, as well as what many consider the best fish and chips in Yorkshire. While touring England, visitors would be remiss if they didn't allow at least a day or two to Whitby.

Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is set above the historic town, with panoramic views of the North Sea and Whitby below. The abbey ruin itself is beautiful to examine, with large archways and windows. According to English Heritage, there is also an impressive history to read about since it's founding by St. Hilda in 657 and mention in Bram Stoker's Dracula. Whitby Abbey can be reached by steps from the town of Whitby below, as well as by car. If you want a beautiful view of Whitby Abbey but aren't interested in paying the entry free or joining English Heritage, consider walking through Whitby and out onto one of the piers. From a distance, you can see the entire ruin.

Whitby's Seaside Beach, Lighthouses, Piers and Amusements
Whitby is a seaside fishing town, complete with piers, boat rides, amusement rides and games for children and adults, and a sandy beach. Though the water might be a bit chilly for swimming for the majority of the year, you'll still find families wading in with their trousers rolled up, and puppies fetching sticks from the waves. Walk out onto the piers to catch that view of Whitby Abbey, beautiful rocky crags, and the two lighthouses that you can climb into.

Whitby and the Story of Dracula
Featured in Bram Stoker's Dracula, many visitors flock to Whitby, England in hopes of seeing some of the sights mentioned in his novel. Be sure to see Whitby Abbey and St. Mary's Church, each mentioned in the novel. Don't miss out on the Bram Stoker Memorial Seat, which is said to have inspired the scenes in the novel that took place in Whitby. Another option for those more interested in the story than the history would be to take part in the Dracula Experience, an interactive museum attraction.

The Magpie Café, the Best Fish & Chips in Whitby
The Magpie Café is home to the best fish and chips in North Yorkshire, and many will even claim the best fish and chips in England. Wait in line and order your fish and chips for takeaway, and eat on the Whitby piers. With your choice of haddock or cod, Magpie's fish and chips are the best we've tasted since our arrival in England. Fresh fish, battered and deep fried to perfection, and freshly chipped potatoes make fish and chips from The Magpie Café one of the best meals you can experience while in England.

Whitby, England should definitely top your list of must-see spots in England. This seaside fishing town has something for everyone. From Whitby Abbey to Bram Stoker's Dracula, Whitby is rich in history and adventure.

Published by Kelly Herdrich - Featured Contributor in Travel

Kelly has a bachelor's degree in elementary education, raises three young daughters, and recently returned from three years living and traveling overseas. Since beginning her freelance writing career, Kelly...   View profile

  • Portions of Bram Stoker's Dracula were set in Whitby.
  • The Magpie Cafe is known for having the best fish and chips in Yorkshire.
  • Whitby Abbey offers beautiful panoramic views of Whitby and the North Sea.

13 Comments

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  • BuntingResources.com 12/3/2007

    Well written.

  • P. L. Ward 10/30/2007

    Great one! I have an English aunt, and I hope to visit the country someday myself.

  • Fabletoo 10/29/2007

    Nice article, Kelly. i'm British and used to go to Whitby as a kid. Brings back nice memories, it's a pretty town.

  • cathiesbloggs 10/29/2007

    I would love to see this!..you are so lucky!..Great article...

  • Sophie 10/29/2007

    Well done on a great travel article, Kelly.
    Sophie

  • islandermom 10/29/2007

    Sounds like a wonderful place. Great read Kelly!

  • Lenora Murdock 10/28/2007

    sounds like a wonderful visit..well written

  • Jacci DiCarlo 10/28/2007

    Sounds a little like Chesapeake Bay...But then it's maritime. Living in Texas, I miss the ocean. Nice job Kelly.

  • Carol Bengle Gilbert 10/28/2007

    Having studied Dracula in college from one of his descendents, I would be happy to embark on the Dracula Experience.

  • jennybeans 10/28/2007

    Well done! Great travel guide.

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