Living in Whitby

Your guide to moving to Whitby

Why Whitby is a good place to live

Whitby - a charming seaside town nestled within the breathtaking North Yorkshire landscape, offers an enchanting blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Imagine living in Whitby, where you are surrounded by alternating views of sweeping beaches and rugged cliffs. This quaint town brims with nostalgic charm, enticing with winding cobbled streets that open up to scenic harbourside views. Food enthusiasts in Whitby are in for a treat with daily catches from the local fishing port coming straight onto their plates. For those wanting a tranquil retreat from city life, Whitby's quieter winters provide a peaceful haven.

What's Whitby famous for?

Whitby is famous for its historic Whitby Abbey, a majestic ruin perched atop the cliff, which has inspired many artists and was a significant influence in Bram Stoker's iconic novel, Dracula. It's also known for its rich maritime heritage, as this is where the legendary Captain Cook learned his seamanship. It's hard to mention Whitby without referring to its cherished tradition of serving exceptional fish and chips, a delicacy best enjoyed by the seaside. Finally, Whitby's vibrant events calendar includes the well-known Whitby Goth Festival, bringing an intriguing, alternative twist to the town.

Things to do in Whitby

Whitby beckons with an array of activities encompassing history, nature, cuisine, and more. A stroll along the Cleveland Way provides awe-inspiring views of the sea, while a roam through the town's alleyways offers delightful discoveries of independent shops and stores. Visitors can savour local seafood specialities in cozy restaurants and enjoy a friendly ambiance at one of the many pubs. History buffs will appreciate the replicas and exhibits dedicated to Captain Cook's voyages at the local museum, while those looking for unique finds can go fossil hunting along Whitby's stretch of the Jurassic Coast. The ancient ruins of Whitby Abbey complete the town’s appeal, providing a tranquil space to absorb the area's long and intriguing history.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.