While the town was once famous for whaling back in the 18th and 19th centuries, tourists visiting today will find Whitby nothing short of a fairy tale (or the set of a gothic horror novel). 

Whitby resident and the iconic The Whitby Way pub landlady, Tammy Goldstone-Smith, has described the town as “absolutely breathtaking”.

She got married at the 12th-century Church of St Mary last February.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, she said: “Obviously that is my favourite place in Whitby because even though it was a freezing cold February wet day – it was still my dream wedding because of where we were. 

“The fact that it was Whitby just made the day extra special.”

Bram Stoker’s description of Whitby in his novel Dracula, published in 1897, is eerily similar to the Whitby we know today.

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Precious little has changed since the vampire ascended the 199 steps to the church.

He wrote: “This is a lovely place. The little River Esk runs through a deep valley which broadens out as it comes near the harbour… 

“The houses of the old town are all red-roofed and seem piled up one after the other anyhow…

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“Right over the town is the ruin of the Abbey, a noble ruin of immense size. Between it and the town is another church, the Parish one, round which is a big graveyard, all full of tombstones. 

“It descends so steeply over the harbour that part of the bank has fallen away, and some of the graves have been destroyed.”

However, it isn’t just the stunning architecture that draws people to Whitby as the landscapes appear otherworldly.

Tourists can take a stroll along the picturesque West Cliff and gaze upon the gorgeous sea, Whitby Abbey, and the colourful beach huts.

In the summer, people flock to the sandy beaches to laze in the sun and soak in the scenery and perhaps take a refreshing dip in the North Sea.

All year round, Whitby bursts with life, hosting a diverse array of festivals and events. 

The vibrant celebrations of the Whitby Goth Weekend sees thousands gathering as the town is adorned with stunning gothic fashion while music echoes through the air. 

Tourists can also enjoy the unique Whitby Regatta, a traditional maritime gathering featuring rowing competitions, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display. 

During Whitby Folk Week people can immerse themselves in art and culture as the town buzzes with captivating performances and engaging workshops.

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