This time last year a group of friends and I went on a ‘staycation’ to Whitby. A year on the world has changed so much and our novel idea of going away in the U.K. has become the new normal. Whitby was the perfect holiday destination and as the lockdown rules are being reduced more of us will be flocking to seaside towns. For the long weekend we were there, we stayed in a two bedroom apartment only a five minute walk from the town.
Top 3 Attractions
1. 199 Steps and Whitby Abbey
You can’t go to Whitby without climbing the 199 steps up to St.Mary’s church. No matter how far up you go, the steps give a scenic view of the whole of the coastline. At the top of the steps are the ruins of Whitby Abbey. This is where Bram Stoker was inspired to write, Dracula and you can find many tourist attractions dedicated to the novel.
2. Whitby Promenade
We spent every evening on the promenade, looking for places to eat, going in the arcades or having an after dinner walk. If you’ve got the stomach for it, try walking all the way to the look out point at the end of the pier.
3. Robin Hood’s Bay
Whilst staying in Whitby if you fancy a day trip, Robin Hood’s Bay is only fourteen minutes down the road and there are plenty of buses available throughout the day. As soon as you mention Whitby everyone will tell you how gorgeous Robin Hood’s Bay is, so it really is a must see!
Hidden Gems
Gutsy Gingers
Whitby is home to winding streets full of independent shops including Gutsy Gingers. From henna to jewellery Gutsy Gingers really shouldn’t be missed.
Greedy Pig
Although the Greedy Pig is up a hill in the centre of Whitby, it’s definitely worth the walk. If you like pulled pork and bacon sandwiches then you absolutely need to visit.
Travelling Around Whitby
Depending on where you stay, everything is on your doorstep. The town is so small you won’t need to spend extra money on transport once you’re there. The train station is right in the centre of town although I recommend getting the train as you won’t need a car at all. There are plenty of buses throughout the day to places like Robin Hood’s Bay or Scarborough, and plenty of walking tours and trails too.
Food & Drink
1. The Moon & Sixpence
We stumbled across The Moon & Sixpence and I’m so glad we did. The front of the building is a bar that sits on the promenade, however as soon as you walk in there is a large restaurant in the back. With pink walls, mirrors everywhere and plants throughout, this is the perfect place to snap an Instagram picture. We had to visit two nights in a row as the food was just so good.
2. Trenchers
What is a trip to the seaside without fish and chips. In 2019 Trenchers was named the U.K.’s best chippy and is definitely worth it. Trenchers can be spotted a mile off and if this recommendation isn’t enough people are usually queuing out the door.
3. Rusty Shears
Most places you visit in Whitby are great for breakfast, lunch and dinner; and Rusty Shears is no exception. Just off the town centre it was the perfect place to go for breakfast, however don’t let this place deceive you. With over 100 gins on the menu this is the best place to go for drinks.
Personally I love a staycation, there’s a lot less pressure for it to be perfect and there are some real hidden gems in the U.K. Whitby was no exception and was the perfect place to go for a long weekend. Although the weather in England is temperamental, if you get the chance to go you definitely should. jet airport cars uk
Words by Neve Gordon-Farleigh
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