Dracula in whitby fangtastic things to do
If you’re into Dracula, Whitby is a great place to visit! This charming seaside town in Yorkshire has lots of cool things for Bram Stoker fans.
Bram Stoker first came to Whitby in 1890. He stayed at a guesthouse on the West Cliff. From his room, he could see the 199 steps and Whitby Abbey. This amazing view inspired him to write “Dracula” and started Whitby’s connection with vampires.
Even though Bram visited over 125 years ago, the view hasn’t changed. The Dracula story is still popular today. You can walk in Bram’s footsteps and see the spooky spots from his book. Bram also had an exciting life in London. He worked at the Lyceum Theatre and met many interesting people.
Food in Whitby While you’re in Whitby, don’t forget to try the local food! The town is famous for its fresh seafood. You can’t miss the classic Whitby fish and chips. They are crispy and delicious. Enjoy these tasty dishes while taking in the beautiful seaside views.
Where is Whitby in England?
Whitby, pronounced ‘Wit-bee’, is in the North of England on the Yorkshire coast. It is surrounded by the North York Moors National Park. You can get there by the North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coastal road. The town is famous for its beautiful East and West coastal cliffs, which are separated by the River Esk.
Whitby is well-known for its link to Dracula. But it also has stunning Blue Flag beaches, tasty Fish n’ Chips, and the special Whitby Jet stone. The town has a rich history with Captain Cook, the famous explorer, and a past connected to whaling. Whitby is a charming seaside town with many attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy.
How to reach Whitby in Yorkshire
| Mode of Travel | Route/Details | Distance/Time |
|---|---|---|
| By Car | From York: Take the A64 towards Malton, then switch to the A169 towards Whitby. | 47 miles / ~1.5 hours |
| From Scarborough: Follow the A171 directly to Whitby. | 21 miles / ~45 minutes | |
| From Leeds: Take the A64 towards York, then follow the directions from York. | 72 miles / ~2 hours | |
| By Train | From York: Train service to Whitby, requires a change at either Middlesbrough or Scarborough. | ~2.5 to 3 hours |
| From Middlesbrough: Direct trains to Whitby are available. | ~1.5 hours | |
| By Bus | From Scarborough: Arriva bus service X93/X94. | ~1 hour |
| From Middlesbrough: Arriva bus service X93/X94. | ~1.5 hours | |
| By Plane | Nearest major airports are Leeds Bradford Airport and Newcastle International Airport. From there, rent a car or use public transport to reach Whitby. | Varies based on starting location |
| By Bike | National Cycle Network Route 1 passes through Whitby. | Scenic but challenging ride |
Dracula in Whitby – 13 Fang-Tastic Things to Do for Bram Stoker Fans
It’s 1885, and a Russian ship named ‘The Demeter’ is caught in a huge storm. The storm is so strong that the ship ends up stuck on the beach in Whitby harbor. Sadly, the whole crew, including the captain, drowns.
Then, something strange happens! A big black dog jumps out of the ship and starts climbing up the 199 steps to Whitby Abbey.
But this black dog is not just any dog. It’s Count Dracula in disguise—a scary vampire who has come to Whitby to cause trouble. So now, Dracula is loose in Whitby, bringing some spooky excitement to the town!
1. Arrive at Whitby harbor aboard a pirate ship.
Alright, so it’s not quite the same as Dracula’s spooky shipping container, and hopefully, you won’t face a huge storm!
But taking a pirate boat ride along the Whitby coast is a must-do. It’ll give you an awesome view of where The Demeter landed on the Whitby shores. The Captain Cook Experience, which docks in Whitby harbor, has one of the coolest pirate ships you can ride.
The trips last about 20 minutes and cost just £3.50—such a great deal! While you’re on board, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the town and listen to fun sea shanties.
The ship is called the Bark Endeavour, named after Captain Cook’s famous HMS Endeavour. It’s got a bit of a pirate feel to it, just like the Black Dog from the story. Cool, right?
2. Climb the 199 steps
Get ready for some exercise with the 199 Steps! As the name says, there are 199 steps, but people like to check if that’s true.
Some count 198 steps, others say 200. Old guidebooks from the 1800s even say there are only 194. Why not count them yourself? Look for the Roman numerals on the steps to help you keep track.
A long time ago, the steps were made of wood. Climbing them was tough and showed your strength. In the 18th century, they were replaced with stone from Sneaton. They’ve stayed that way ever since.
In the past, if someone was buried here, their family had to carry the coffin up these steps. In Bram Stoker’s book “Dracula,” a black dog runs up the 199 Steps and into Whitby Abbey. So, follow in the dog’s footsteps and enjoy the adventure!
3. Check out St. Mary’s Church and its graveyard.
When you climb the 199 Steps and reach the top before Whitby Abbey, you’ll find St. Mary’s Church and its graveyard.
This church was first built in 1110, but much of what you see today is from the 18th century. It’s a Grade I listed building and worth visiting. Bram Stoker used St Mary’s Graveyard for some scenes in his book. In the story, Mina and Lucy, two girls on holiday in Whitby, tour the graveyard with their landlord, Mr. Swales. He tells them about the town’s legends and the stories behind some gravestones.
The two girls were inspired by real sisters who stayed with Bram Stoker at Royal Crescent. Mr. Swales’ name came from a real tombstone in the graveyard, and you can still see it today. Other names like Braithwaite Lowery, Andrew Woodhouse, and John Paxton were also inspired by gravestones in the churchyard.
4. Wander around Whitby abbey
Did you know that spooky Whitby Abbey is where Dracula, the famous vampire, lives? It’s a place right out of Bram Stoker’s exciting book! English Heritage keeps the Dracula fun going here. In the summer, they have funny Dracula shows among the old ruins. You can even join in and have a blast!
And guess what? Don’t forget to visit their gift shop! You can find creepy-cool souvenirs like Bram Stoker’s book and lots of spooky Dracula goodies!
The history of Whitby Abbey
Did you know that the spooky Whitby Abbey is where Dracula, the famous vampire, calls home? It’s a place straight out of Bram Stoker’s exciting book! English Heritage keeps the Dracula excitement alive here. During the summer, they have super funny Dracula shows among the old ruins. You can even join in and have a blast!
And guess what? Make sure you visit their gift shop for some creepy-cool souvenirs like Bram Stoker’s book and lots of spooky Dracula goodies!
Whitby Abbey has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was founded as a religious center in 657 AD and became an important monastery in Northumbria, a kingdom that ruled what is now Northumberland and Yorkshire after the Romans left. Back then, it was known as Streaneshalch and was led by Abbess Hild, who supported Christianity during a time when there was a religious divide between Celtic Christians from Ireland and Roman Christians from Italy.
In 664 AD, Whitby Abbey hosted the famous Synod of Whitby, where King Oswiu of Northumbria decided to follow the Roman Christian tradition. This was a major moment in English religious history. The monastery thrived for centuries but faced challenges, including being abandoned after a Danish raid in the 9th century.
In 1078, a new Benedictine community was established at the site, and the abbey flourished until King Henry VIII ordered its dissolution in the 16th century, leading to its destruction. The haunting ruins that stand today are a reminder of its enduring legacy and the turbulent history of England’s religious and political changes over the centuries.
How to get to Whitby Abbey
Getting to Whitby Abbey can be an adventure! You can climb 199 steps to get there. You’ll also walk through St Mary’s Church. If climbing isn’t your thing, you have other options.
You can drive up to Whitby Abbey. Or, you can take the Whitby Open Bus tour from the Whitby Visitor Centre. The bus tour is a lot of fun! You can hop on and off whenever you want. It takes you to all the main spots in Whitby and has a lively commentary to keep you entertained.
What to do at Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is one of the coolest places to visit in town, and it’s cared for by English Heritage!
It’s recently had a fantastic makeover. Now, you can explore the amazing ruins and check out a super fun museum. The museum has awesome exhibits that show you all about the abbey’s history and cool artifacts found there.
You can wander around the abbey ruins and explore as much as you like. There are no ropes or barriers, so you can get up close to the ancient stones and have a great time!
5. Stay at Bats & Broomsticks Gothic Guest House.
For a super fun and slightly spooky place to stay, try Bats & Broomsticks Gothic Guest House! This guest house feels like a magical adventure with its cool, gothic decorations. Each room has fun and eerie touches, making you feel like you’re in a fantastical story. After exploring Whitby and its famous abbey, this is the perfect spot to relax. With its charmingly spooky atmosphere, Bats & Broomsticks adds a touch of magic and mystery to your stay!
6. Sink your teeth into a Whitby Jet black ice cream at Trillo’s
Head to Trillo’s for a super cool treat! They have a special ice cream called Whitby Jet Black. It looks as mysterious as it sounds. This ice cream is jet black, just like the famous Whitby Jet gemstone. It’s really fun to eat.
Trillo’s isn’t just about the black ice cream. It’s a great place for yummy treats and a good time. You can sit in their cozy shop or take your ice cream to go while you explore Whitby.
The Whitby Jet Black ice cream tastes amazing, too! It’s not just about its spooky look. It’s packed with delicious flavors you’ll love. If you like trying new and unique things, this ice cream is a must-try. Don’t miss out—grab a scoop of this special ice cream at Trillo’s and make your Whitby visit even more fun!
7. Be spooked by the Dracula Experience
Head to 9 Marine Parade by the harbour for a spooky adventure at the Dracula Experience! This fun attraction has been around for 15 years. It lets you step into the story of Dracula through creepy rooms like a haunted house.
As you walk through, you’ll follow Dracula’s journey from when he first arrived to the thrilling end (which I’ll keep a surprise!). Watch out for the live actors—they’re part of the fun!
I always get scared in haunted houses, and this one was no different! My heart raced, and I even laughed a bit after I got out safely!
Did you know Sir Isaac Newton once owned this place? It used to be a captain’s reading room before becoming this ghostly experience. There are also lots of spooky events you can join if you’re brave enough!
8. Visit Bram Stokers Memorial Seat on Khyber Pass
If you want to see where Bram Stoker got his ideas for Dracula, take a walk to the West Cliff along the Khyber Pass. Bram Stoker loved walking this path when he was in Whitby. From the West Cliff, you can see the 199 steps, St. Mary’s Church, and Whitby Abbey. These places inspired his story.
There is a special spot called the Bram Stoker Memorial Seat. It was set up by Scarborough Council and the Dracula Society on April 20th, 1980. This was to honor Bram Stoker on the 68th anniversary of his death.
To find the memorial seat, go to the Whitby Whalebones. Look for the seat farthest away from them on your right. It might look a bit different because it’s older. It’s a great place to imagine Bram Stoker enjoying the same views!
9. Stay at Bram’s View apartment on number 6 Royal Crescent
For a memorable stay in Whitby, check out Bram’s View Apartment at 6 Royal Crescent! This charming apartment is named after Bram Stoker, the famous author of Dracula. It offers a unique and cozy place to stay.
The apartment is in a beautiful, historic building. From Bram’s View, you get a fantastic view of Whitby Abbey and the coastline. Inside, the apartment blends modern comforts with classic touches. It feels both stylish and homey.
The apartment has everything you need. There’s a spacious living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and cozy bedrooms. It’s perfect for relaxing after exploring Whitby and its spooky attractions.
You’ll also be close to the heart of Whitby. You can easily visit local shops, cafes, and landmarks. Whether you’re a fan of Bram Stoker’s work or just looking for a great place to stay, Bram’s View Apartment offers a special and memorable experience. Enjoy the charm of Whitby and the comfort of your home away from home at Bram’s View!
10. Take an In Search of Dracula walk in Whitb
If you want to search for Dracula in Whitby, join a Dracula walking tour! You’ll meet Dr. Crank, who wears cool Victorian clothes and shares stories about the famous Count.
You don’t need to book in advance. Just be outside the Whitby Whalebones at 7:30 pm. The tour is fun and lasts about 75 minutes. Get ready for a thrilling adventure with Dracula stories and spooky surprises!
11. Buy some Dracula rock and sweeties
You can’t visit the seaside without some ice cream or sweets, and Whitby has Dracula-themed treats for you to try!
You can enjoy coffin chocolates, vampire teeth candies, and even syrup-filled blood bags. Don’t miss the Count Dracula lollies and black-and-red Dracula rock candies. There are plenty of spooky and tasty goodies to enjoy!
12. Visit the annual Whitby Goth Weekend (Dracula Weekend)!
If you love Dracula, you might enjoy Whitby’s amazing Goth Weekend. It happens twice a year: once in April and again around Halloween!
It all began in 1994 as a fun meetup for pen pals at the Elsinore Pub. Now, it’s one of the UK’s biggest Goth events.
During the weekend, the town fills with cool characters like Goths, pirates, and steampunks. There’s a huge festival celebrating Goth culture. You’ll see live bands on stage, visit the Bizarre Bazaar market with unique items, and enjoy many special events around town. It’s a fantastic time to join in and experience something really special!
Day trips from Whitby
When you’re done exploring Whitby, there are many great places nearby to check out. Whether you go up the coast or explore inland in Yorkshire, you’ll find lots of beautiful spots. New adventures are always waiting!
Scarborough
Scarborough is just a 30-minute drive from Whitby. This charming town has a lot of history and fun things to do.
Start by visiting Scarborough Castle. These impressive ruins have been around for 3,000 years! The castle is on a dramatic headland with amazing views.
Scarborough used to be a famous spa resort where people came to ‘take the waters.’ You can still visit the old spa and enjoy a walk along the pretty promenade.
Check out the Rotunda Museum to see early discoveries about the area’s geology. If you love fish and chips, stop by Papa’s for some of the best in the UK! For a pirate adventure, you can even ride the Hispaniola pirate ship. Scarborough has so much to offer!
Staithes
Staithes is a magical spot on the Yorkshire coast. It’s part of the Captain Cook trail if you’re following his sea adventures.
You can explore the charming harbor or enjoy the stunning views from the clifftops.
Relax on the beach, have lunch at the Cod and Lobster, or visit the Captain Cook Museum (though I thought it was just okay). Staithes is a delightful place for a fun and relaxing day!
Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay might sound like it’s named after the legendary Robin Hood, but there’s no real proof of that! There’s an old song about Robin Hood saving a town from pirates on the North East coast, but it’s more legend than fact.
In real history, Robin Hood’s Bay was a busy seaport and a hotspot for smuggling in the 18th century.
Bram Stoker’s novel also includes scenes set in Robin Hood’s Bay. It’s a fantastic place to explore and enjoy some spooky fun!
Visiting Dracula in Whitby – Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Literary Connection: Experience the settings from Bram Stoker’s famous novel, “Dracula.” | Tourist Crowds: Popular during certain times of the year, especially around Halloween. |
| Historic Sites: Visit the iconic Whitby Abbey, which inspired parts of the novel. | Weather: Can be quite chilly and windy, especially outside of summer months. |
| Charming Town: Explore Whitby’s picturesque streets, quaint shops, and seaside views. | Limited Nightlife: Fewer evening activities and entertainment options compared to larger towns. |
| Gothic Atmosphere: Enjoy the gothic architecture and eerie landscapes that add to the Dracula experience. | Accommodation Costs: Can be higher during peak seasons or special events. |
| Local Festivals: Participate in themed events and festivals that celebrate Dracula and gothic culture. | Accessibility: Some attractions may be difficult to reach without a car or during off-peak times. |
Conclusion
Visiting Whitby feels like diving into a magical adventure book! This seaside town is full of cool sights and fun activities. Start by exploring the spooky ruins of Whitby Abbey. You’ll see why Bram Stoker chose it for Dracula’s story. The old abbey and its mysterious vibe are really exciting.
For more Dracula fun, check out The Dracula Experience and the Dracula Walking Tour. You can learn all about the Dracula legend and try some Dracula-themed sweets like coffin chocolates and vampire teeth. Don’t forget to taste the special Whitby Jet Black ice cream at Trillo’s!
Stay at Bram’s View Apartment for a cozy place with great views. If you want more adventures, visit nearby Scarborough and Robin Hood’s Bay. Whitby has lots to offer, whether you’re exploring historical sites, joining a Goth Weekend, or just relaxing at the beach.
So pack your bags and get ready for an exciting trip! Whitby’s mix of history, legends, and beautiful scenery will make your visit unforgettable.
FAQs
Q1: What are some cool places to visit if I love Bram Stoker?
- Whitby Abbey: Explore the spooky old ruins that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula story.
- The Dracula Experience: Walk through a haunted house that brings the Dracula story to life.
- The Bram Stoker Memorial Seat: Find this special seat near the Whitby Whalebones, where you can enjoy a view Bram Stoker might have seen.
Q2: When’s the best time to visit Whitby for Dracula fans?
- Goth Weekend: This fun event happens twice a year, in April and around Halloween, with lots of spooky activities.
- Summer: Check out Dracula-themed events and performances at Whitby Abbey.
Q3: Are there any Dracula-themed things to do in Whitby?
- Dracula Walking Tour: Join Dr. Crank, dressed in cool Victorian clothes, for a tour full of Dracula stories.
- Dracula Treats: Try Dracula-themed sweets like coffin chocolates and vampire teeth at local shops.
Q4: Where can I stay in Whitby?
- Bram’s View Apartment: Stay at this cozy place named after Bram Stoker, with great views and a comfy vibe.
Q5: What other fun places can I visit from Whitby?
- Scarborough: Explore this historic town with its impressive castle and spooky charm.
- Robin Hood’s Bay: Check out this charming seaside village and its pirate legends.
Q6: What other fun things can I do in Whitby?
- Ice Cream Treats: Don’t miss out on Dracula-themed ice cream flavors at local shops.
- Museum Visits: Visit local museums to learn more about Dracula and the history of Whitby.