Things to do in Whitby
By Haven
Midway between Scarborough and Middlesborough on the North Yorkshire Coast lies Whitby, a small, attractive seaside town. Horror fans will be happy to discover that the ruined Whitby Abbey provided Dracula author Bram Stoker with inspiration for his gothic classic.
There are several other fascinating historical attractions and memorable sights to enjoy during your visit. Whitby can be reached in just under an hour’s drive from Haven’s Blue Dolphin or Primrose Valley holiday parks.
Key takeaways
- The ruined Whitby Abbey, perched on East Cliff, inspired Bram Stoker to write his gothic classic Dracula.
- Climbing the iconic 199 Steps rewards visitors with breathtaking views over Whitby's red-roofed townscape and harbour.
- Between late summer and autumn, whale-watching cruises offer the chance to spot minke and humpback whales offshore.
Whitby Abbey
Let’s begin with the impressive ruin that inspired Dracula’s creator, author Bram Stoker, who stayed in Whitby. The Abbey was a 7th-century monastery that later became a 12th-century Benedictine abbey, and was again further expanded in the 14th century. Its remains stand proudly on East Cliff overlooking the town and the sea.
From the Abbey site, there are great views down to Whitby and the beach, and Gothic horror fans might like to access it via the 199 steps featured in Stoker’s book. St Mary’s Church, also on the same site, dates back to the 12th century, although its interior is Victorian.
Whitby Museum
A quirky, independent museum, this attraction features a unique collection of geological, historical, cultural, and maritime exhibits including model ships, costumes, and photography. With exhibits extending back to the stone age, there’s no shortage of information in the varied and surprising displays.
It’s a spacious and award-winning attraction, so you’ll need to allow a couple of hours. The building is situated a little way inland at peaceful Pannett Park, which has ornate decorative features such as its sunken pond and themed gardens.
199 Steps
An iconic Whitby landmark, the 199 Steps lead up to the magnificent Whitby Abbey, offering breathtaking views of the town and harbour. With each step seeped in history and folklore (some believe her steps are over 700 years old) the journey is as captivating as the destination.
Despite the climb, the steps are a must-see, so prepare to pace yourself. Positioned near the town centre, the steps offer views of Whitby's charming, red-roofed townscape and expansive sea. Artists and photographers can often be seen recording the steps’ charms.
Museum of Victorian Science
A distinctive and educational attraction, the Museum of Victorian Science dives into the fascinating world of 19th-century science. Discover the era's electrifying inventions and scientific breakthroughs in an interactive, immersive setting.
Allow a few hours to fully explore the numerous intriguing displays and exhibits. The museum is a short trip from the town centre and adds an air of Victorian nostalgia and wonder to the Yorkshire countryside.
Whitby Harbour
An active and bustling harbour, Whitby Harbour teems with charm and maritime heritage. With its captivating view of the boats at sail and the delightful array of local shops, pubs and eateries, there’s plenty to explore.
Give yourself a morning or afternoon to soak up the atmosphere and engage in a spot of people-watching at a cafe. The harbour is centrally located, an ideal spot for those seeking both scenic beauty and the lively pulse of Whitby life.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
Situated in the 17th-century house where Cook once lodged as an apprentice, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum is a tribute to the famed explorer's life and voyages.
The museum boasts a rich collection of artefacts, models, and maps which may take a couple of hours to explore. The historic Grape Lane location adds to the immersive experience, transporting visitors back to Cook’s seafaring days.
Whitby Beach
This region is freckled with beautiful, historic beaches, including Whitby Beach. With the cliffs in the background and historic landmarks to explore, this picturesque sandy beach is the perfect place to spend a day in Whitby. Its blue waters are just right for swimming and paddling, and its rock pools are great for spotting some of the local marine life.
It’s easy to find various seaside activities happening at the beach, too, from donkey rides to all important ice cream eating. Whitby Beach is also close enough to walk to other nearby attractions, including 199 Steps and Whitby Abbey.
St Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church in Whitby, Yorkshire, England, is a historic parish church, founded in 1110. The church sits atop Whitby’s East Cliff, where there are beautiful views of the North Sea. Today, the church features a Georgian interior, where visitors can experience the triple-decker pulpit and furnishings from the Victorian era.
To access the church, visitors can climb one of the other best things to do in Whitby – the 199 Steps. This famous staircase leads up from the harbour to the historic churchyard with its weathered tombstones. Legend has it that this churchyard was the inspiration for scenes in Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Go Whale Watching in Whitby
In late summer and early autumn, it's well worth taking a whale-watching cruise to see if you can spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The migration of whales to the Yorkshire coast attracts a wide range of marine life, including minke whales and humpback whales.
You'll find several local boat tour providers ready to share an unforgettable experience with you. Don’t be surprised if you also catch a glimpse of dolphins, seals, and porpoises on your travels!
Whitby Distillery
When in Whitby, indulge your love of botanical spirits with a visit to Whitby Distillery. This small, family-run distillery has a reputation for producing award-winning artisan spirits, with an incredible selection included in the Whitby Gin range.
Over 18s visiting the distillery can sign up for a one-hour distillery tour, available from Thursday to Sunday. The tour includes a craft gin and tonic, a botanical masterclass, an up-close look at the copper still, tastings, the history of Whitby Distillery, and more.
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Ownership offers in Yorkshire
Important information
Terms and conditions
Pre-owned holiday homes from £14,995 – UPDATED 3 Sept 2026
As at 3 Sept 2026, price is available at the following parks: Berwick, Blue Dolphin, Cardigan View, Church Farm, Cleethorpes Beach, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Doniford Bay, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Golden Sands, Greenacres, Hafan Y Mor, Haggerston Castle, Lakeland, Littlesea, Marton Mere, Orchards, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Quay West, Reighton Sands, Rockley Park, Thornwick Bay, Wild Duck and Weymouth Bay. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Price excludes 2026 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
New holiday homes from £268 per month – UPDATED 3 Sept 2026 Representative Example: Swift Bordeaux 3 Bed 2026 Holiday Home Cash Price of £54,995.00, with a deposit £16,498.50, gives a total amount of credit £38,496.50. Interest rate 5.33% per annum. Representative 9.6% APR. 120 monthly repayments of £491.79. Total charge for credit £20,518.63. Total amount payable £75,513.63
As at 3 Sept 2026, promotion is available at the following parks: Berwick, Blue Dolphin, Cardigan View, Church Farm, Cleethorpes Beach, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Doniford Bay, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Golden Sands, Greenacres, Hafan Y Mor, Haggerston Castle, Lakeland, Littlesea, Marton Mere, Orchards, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Quay West, Reighton Sands, Rockley Park, Thornwick Bay, Wild Duck and Weymouth Bay. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Quoted monthly price excludes 2026 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
New 2 or 3-bed silver holiday homes with front verandah from £416 per month – UPDATED 3 Sept 2026
Monthly price is based on the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 2 or 3 bed and inclusive of Front Verandah at an average price of £6,500, with a combined priced of £46,495 available at; Blue Dolphin, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Haggerston Castle, Hafan Y Mor, Orchards, Reighton Sands, Cleethorpes Beach, Wild Duck, Church Farm. Representative Finance example. Package cash price £46,495, less 30% deposit of £13,948.50, gives a loan amount of £32,546.50. 120 monthly payments of £415.78. Total charge for credit £17,347.28. Total amount payable £63,842.28 which includes the deposit amount. The interest rate is 5.33% fixed / 9.6% APR (representative). Price is available independent of site fee offers available. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England and Wales (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
New Customer offer Terms & Conditions
New Customer Summer 2026 offer is applicable to new customers purchases made at selected Haven parks where customers obtain a quotation between 20 August 2026 and 3 October 2026 and complete the purchase of their holiday home by 30 November 2026. New customers can choose one of the following offers to apply to their sale, with the option to be made at the point of quotation and to form part of the quotation:
Free Site Fees for the remainder of the 2026 season (not available for customers purchasing on Let2offset). A credit equivalent to the value of your site fees due during the 2026 season will be applied to your account balance on completion of your purchase. It cannot be applied to your purchase or refunded in cash. 2027 season (and future) Site Fees will be due for the annual period from 1 March and payable each year thereafter.
10% deposit contribution, up to £3,000. Haven will contribute 10% of the holiday home value (excluding running costs and additional items (such as decking or storage boxes) up to £3,000.
This offer may be combined with the Owner Referral Offer, but cannot be combined with any other promotional offers.
New customers are customers who do not currently own a holiday home on a holiday park operated by Haven.
This offer is personal to the customer. If a customer sells their holiday home privately mid-2026 season, the new owner of the holiday home may be required to pay a part, or all, of the 2026 Site Fees (as applicable) which will be pro-rata adjusted for the period from completion of their purchase with no discount applied.
As well as the cost of the holiday home itself, customers will also have to pay all other costs associated with the holiday home, including but not limited to any costs normally charged in connection with running costs including insurance, electricity, gas, local authority rates and the maintenance of the holiday home such as winterisation and compulsory safety checks.
For the avoidance of doubt, new customers who move their holiday home to Haven from another park without completing a purchase are not eligible.
This offer is only available at the following parks: Kent Coast, Blue Dolphin, Burnham-on-Sea, Caister-on-Sea, Church Farm, Cala Gran, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Cardigan View, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Far Grange, Greenacres, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Hafan y Mor, Hopton, Lakeland, Littlesea, Marton Mere, Orchards, Presthaven, Perran Sands, Primrose Valley, Quay West, Reighton Sands, Rockley Park, Seton Sands, Skegness, Cleethorpes Beach, Thornwick Bay, Wild Duck, Weymouth Bay.
Any images shown are for representational purposes. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England and Wales (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
0% Finance at Far Grange offer is applicable to holiday home purchases made at Far Grange where owners sign up between 20 August 2026 and 31 November 2026 and complete the purchase of their holiday home by 31 December 2026. This offer is only available for Finance provided by Santander Consumer Finance UK.
This offer can be combined with the Owner Referral Offer and Free Site Fees at Far Grange but cannot be combined with any other promotional offers.
0% APR Representative is available for the purchasing of new and pre-owned holiday homes available at Far Grange, with a 30% deposit and a term of 5 years. This promotional offer is subject to holiday home and pitch availability, and finance is subject to status. Bourne Leisure Ltd retains the right to withdraw or amend this promotion at any time.
Representative example. Holiday home cash price £29,995, less deposit of £8,998.50 (30%), gives a loan amount of £20,996.50. 60 monthly payments of £349.94. Total charge for credit £0. Total amount payable £29,995 which includes the deposit amount. The interest rate is 0% fixed / 0% APR representative.
As well as the cost of the holiday home itself, customers will also have to pay all other costs associated with the holiday home, including but not limited to any costs normally charged in connection with running costs including insurance, electricity, gas, local authority rates and the maintenance of the holiday home such as winterisation and compulsory safety checks.
For the avoidance of doubt, new customers who move their holiday home to Haven from another park without completing a purchase are not eligible.
Any images shown are for representational purposes. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England and Wales (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Free 2026 Site Fees at Far Grange Free Site Fees 2026 offer is applicable to new customer purchases made at Far Grange through Haven from 1st January 2026, completing by 31 December 2026. A credit equivalent to the value of your site fees due during the 2026 season will be applied to your account balance on completion of your purchase. It cannot be applied to your purchase or refunded in cash. Offer available at the following parks: Far Grange, Yorkshire
Offer excludes part-exchanges or private sales. Price excludes running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability. Bourne Leisure Limited, Company registration no 040 660, whose registered office address is 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. Bourne Leisure is a credit broker and not a lender.
Terms and conditions
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2033
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed preferential letting income (re-calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number and type of letting breaks (i.e. off peak, peak) as set out in the application documents for each year. Instead of site fees being due annually, it also allows eligible owners to pay site fees and receive letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee is charged by Haven after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments until 2033 when using Let2offset’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location but Haven guarantees that there will be no site fee payments due if the eligibility criteria is fulfilled. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance which remain payable. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and inflation.
“Make no site fee payments until 2033 when using Let2offset” is subject to the following eligibility criteria: (i) applicable to new and existing customers who purchase a new Victory Ashberry 3 bed or equivalent silver grade holiday home (https://www.haven.com/caravans-for-sale/ranges) (ii) the purchase must have been made through Haven; and (iii) customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract at the time of caravan purchase. It is not applicable to caravans purchased by private sale and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion and any other promotions or offers issued by Haven from time to time. An example of how “Make no site fee payments until 2033 when using Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Seton Sands with a monthly site fee of £701.67 (includes purchasing discount of £17.08) and monthly letting income of £707.92. The monthly difference equates to £6.25, which will be credited to the owner's account. The monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2026 figures. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset at Burnham-on-Sea
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be due after deduction of the letting income. ‘Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset’ is available at Burnham-on-Sea. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance. Offer is subject to availability.
“Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset” is applicable to new customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 bed or equivalent silver grade holiday home (https://www.haven.com/caravans-for-sale/ranges) through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to caravans purchased by private sale and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. An example of how “Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 bed holiday home at Burnham-on-Sea with a monthly site fee of £783.75 (includes purchasing discount of £19.58) and monthly letting income of £634.00. The monthly difference equates to £130.17 which will be billed to the owner's account monthly. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and inflation. The monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset at Lydstep Beach
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be due after deduction of the letting income. “Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset” is available at Lydstep Beach. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance. Offer is subject to availability. "Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset” is applicable to new customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 bed or equivalent silver grade holiday home (https://www.haven.com/caravans-for-sale/ranges) through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to caravans purchased by private sale and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. An example of how “Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 bed holiday home at Lydstep Beach with a monthly site fee of £939.58 (includes purchasing discount of £28.83) and monthly letting income of £751.17. The monthly difference equates to £159.58 which will be billed to the owner's account monthly. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.
Move your caravan to Haven for free - full terms and conditions
This offer is available for holiday home owners not located at a Haven park and that want to relocate their holiday home from their current holiday park a Haven holiday park, subject to pitch availability and the satisfactory completion of our standard onboarding checks. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, discount or promotion, apart from the free 2026 site fee promotion if applicable to the Haven park. Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time without notice.
In order to be eligible to participate in the offer, your holiday home must be situated within a 50-mile radius of the Haven park that you wish to relocate to. The holiday home must be no more than 15 years old from the date of manufacture and if it has been purchased under a finance agreement, the holiday homeowner must provide confirmation from their lender that the holiday home can be moved to the Haven park.
Haven will transport your holiday home from the entrance of its current holiday park location to the required Haven park and will reimburse your transportation costs up-to a maximum value of £750; any excess must be paid by the holiday homeowner. Haven does not accept any responsibility for any damage that happens to the interior of your holiday home whilst it is being transported to one of our holiday parks. We recommend your holiday home is fully packed down and ready for transportation. Transportation does not include decking. Any decking bought onto a Haven park must be approved by the General Manager of that park to ensure it meets Haven standards. Siting and connection costs for your holiday home on a Haven park will be paid for by Haven. Offer excludes payment of holiday home disconnection at your current park and transportation costs from its current pitch to the entrance of its current park.
Subject to availability and status. Deposit required. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, discount, or promotion. Access to your holiday home is subject to park opening times. Images are shown for representational purposes. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.