Whitby Beach

About Whitby Beach

Whitby is a historic seaside town on the North Sea coast of North Yorkshire, England. Positioned at the mouth of the River Esk and divided by its harbour, Whitby is renowned for its maritime heritage, dramatic coastal scenery, and strong literary associations. It lies on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, making it both a traditional holiday destination and a gateway to wild moorland landscapes.

One of Whitby’s most iconic landmarks is Whitby Abbey, whose atmospheric ruins stand high on the East Cliff overlooking the town and sea. Founded in the 7th century, the abbey later became a haunting Gothic ruin that famously inspired Bram Stoker during his stay in Whitby. His novel Dracula features scenes set in the town, firmly linking Whitby with vampire legend and Gothic fiction.

Whitby has a long maritime history. In the 18th century it was a major shipbuilding centre, and it is closely associated with the explorer Captain James Cook, who trained here as an apprentice. The town’s harbour, still active today, was once filled with whaling ships and trading vessels. Fishing remains important, and Whitby is particularly famous for its fish and chips, often enjoyed along the bustling waterfront.

The town is also known for Whitby jet, a black fossilised wood used in jewellery, especially popular during the Victorian era. Shops selling jet jewellery can still be found along the narrow streets of the old town. A climb up the famous 199 steps from the harbour leads visitors to St Mary’s Church and the abbey ruins, offering sweeping views across the coastline.

Are dogs allowed on Whitby Beach?

Dogs are not permitted on West Cliff Beach, Whitby between 30th September to 1st May, so if you want to exercise your dog during these months, you will need to head further North past the restriction signs. Between 1st October and 30th April, dogs are permitted on Whitby beach.

Getting to Whitby Beach

Address: Pier Rd, North Yorkshire, Whitby YO21 3PT

Whitby beach is easily accessible from major routes in to Whitby, either from the North East or further afield in Yorkshire.

On foot

One of the nicest ways to visit Whitby beach is on foot from Whitby town centre. You can walk down towards the harbour, passing the independent ice cream parlours, fish & chip restaurants and arcades on your way. Whitby is a small town, so getting around on foot is easy, for all abilities. You can also walk to nearby Sandsend beach which should only take around 40 minutes.

By car

Whitby is easily accessible by car from the North East (Middlesbrough area) as well as Yorkshire, with main roads into Whitby (A171 and A174). There are car parks located close to Whitby beach, including Pavilion car park (Cleveland Way, Whitby YO21 3HA), which overlooks the beach itself.

Slightly further up the cliff, you can choose from North Terrace car park (West Cliff, Whitby YO21 3EL) or West Cliff car park (Royal Crescent, West Cliff, Whitby YO21 3EG). Both are pay and display car parks, allowing you to spend several hours at Whitby beach.

By bus

You can travel to Whitby by bus, either using Whitby’s park & ride facility or directly from nearby towns such as Scarborough, Middlesbrough, Grosmont, Robin Hoods Bay and Sleights.