Whitby Abbey
Whitby, North Yorkshire · ★ 4.5 · 20,785 visitor reviews
Whitby, YO22 4JT
About
Immerse yourself in 13th century gothic splendour and see just why the haunting remains ofWhitby Abbey were inspiration for Bram Stoker's gothic tale of 'Dracula'! You're not going to get away with a visit herewithout talking vampires with the smalls, but it's ok: you still don't have to mention Twilight! Sink your metaphorical teeth into oodles of intersting history and amazing panoramic views from the richly carved ruins perched high on the East Cliff Headland just a short climb away from the picturesque Yorkshire seaside town of Whitby, which has it's own delights and adventures!
If you've got the legs for it you can approach through Whitby and climb the 199 steps up to the abbey ruins, just like the mysterious ship jumping creature from Stoker's novel. As you wander the ancient ruins you can take an audio tour for full effect, but if you've got to keep your ears free for the kids then the imaginative visitor centre is full of interesting items from throughout the abbey's history from Anglo-Saxon, medieval and the Cholmley family periods. Plus interactive touch screens allow you to virtually chat with characters from Whitby's past, like an Abbess, a monk, and Bram Stoker himself: eek!
Good for: older children, teenagers
Categories
Facilities
- Baby Changing
- Cafe
- Accessible Parking
- Accessible Entrance
Prices
Opening times
Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Common questions
What can families see at Whitby Abbey?
Families can explore the haunting 13th century gothic ruins that inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. The abbey perches dramatically on the East Cliff with panoramic views, and there's an interactive visitor centre with touch screens.
How do you get to Whitby Abbey?
You can climb the famous 199 steps from Whitby town up to the abbey ruins. It's quite a climb but the views are worth it!
What are the opening hours for Whitby Abbey?
Whitby Abbey is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Does Whitby Abbey have facilities for families?
Yes, there's baby changing, a cafe, and accessible parking available. The accessible entrance makes visits practical, though some areas of the ruins are challenging for pushchairs.
What age groups is Whitby Abbey best for?
Whitby Abbey is particularly suited to older children and teenagers who can appreciate the gothic atmosphere, Dracula connections, and fascinating history. Audio tours are available for the full experience.
What families say
20785 reviews