Things to do in Whitby

Our most recommended things to do in Whitby

From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

Explore the best of Whitby and the North Yorkshire Moors on this captivating full-day tour to one of Britain's most scenic areas. Explore some of its many famous historical sites and adventure across the spectacular landscape. Here you’ll take a trip to the seaside town of Whitby once you arrive in the town it would be rude not to sample the famous Fish and Chips before exploring the historic port town. A short drive out through the city and northwards shortly brings us to one of Yorkshire finest ruins. Byland Abbey which stands just inside the boundary of the North York Moors National Park. One of over 70 Monastic ruins in Yorkshire, it helps to put Yorkshires incredible history into perspective. From Byland we head through the ancient forests surrounding Wass and climb up Wass Bank and onward to the famous old market town of Helmsley, meaning “Helms” Flowery Meadow. Helmsley has been an important settlement for at least 1500 years. Take a little break from the bus to explore the independent shops, use the facilities and grab some refreshments. Your guide will explain the regions place in history, including, burial mounds, religion, farming, mining, the industrial revolution and much more. You will be driven to places that many people don’t know of. Truly off the beaten track, down winding country lanes, through deep cut glacial valleys and up high over the brooding windswept heather moorland that covers a third of this breathtaking landscape. Before long you will arrive in “Heartbeat Country”, taken from the popular TV show Heartbeat and into “Aidensfield” itself. Goathland is the real name of the charming village that was the setting for the classic show set in the 1960’s. You will get a chance for a photo in the village before proceeding to the very quaint old railway station the once doubled as “Hogsmeade” Station in the Harry Potter films. Once you get to Whitby there will be plenty of time for lunch, a chance to try the famous fish and chips or explore the towns fasinating history. Learn about Captain Cook who set sail from Whitby on the Bark Endeavor to discover Australia. Perhaps you want to Visit Whitby Abbey, synonymous with Dracula. What ever you prefer your guide will offer his best advice. You will have up to 2 hours free time in Whitby before rejoining the bus and heading back across the moors and returning to York.

From York: Moors, Whitby, and the Yorkshire Steam Railway

From York: Moors, Whitby, and the Yorkshire Steam Railway

Leave the city and travel through the Vale of York, learning about life in Yorkshire as you head for the first stop in the traditional National Park village of Hutton-le-Hole. Pass the 16th-century Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge at the highest point of the moors. See some of the pretty villages on the way to Whitby and hear stories from the seaside town’s history. Choose how you want to spend your two and a half hours in Whitby. See the Abbey, visit the Captain Cook attractions, shop for gothic fashion or enjoy a fish and chips lunch, the choice is yours. Opt to spend less time in Whitby and climb aboard a steam train on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway at a special discounted rate, paid locally on the day. See Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter movies and more. Alternatively, journey to Goathland by minibus in time see the other passengers arrive by steam train. Explore the fictional village of Aidensfield from the TV show, Heartbeat. Learn the history behind the mysterious RAF Fylingdales Pyramid on Snod Hill and see the Hole of Horcum before heading back towards York through the Howardian Hills with panoramic views of Castle Howard.

Whitby: Whitby Abbey Ticket

Whitby: Whitby Abbey Ticket

There’s more to see and do at the abbey than ever before. With fantastic views over the coast, a revamped museum and wide open grounds to roam, it’s a great value day out for everyone. Uncover over 13 centuries of history as you explore the stunning ruins of this Gothic abbey. Originally founded in AD 657 by King Oswy of Northumbria, Whitby Abbey has been the site of inspiration for many religious leaders, artists, writers and poets. Set high on a cliff, take in scenic views of the coastline and famous fishing port as you find out how St Hild fought snakes and how the abbey inspired Caedmon, the first named English poet, and the author of ‘Dracula’, Bram Stoker.

English Heritage: Attractions Pass for Overseas Visitors

English Heritage: Attractions Pass for Overseas Visitors

Get a range of benefits with a 9-day or 16-day single or family English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass, offering free entry to more than 100 stately homes, castles, prehistoric remains and gardens the length and breadth of England. Only available to non-UK residents, the great value pass will save you money even if you only visit 2 or 3 attractions, making a 9-day pass suitable for a weekend break. You can visit as many English Heritage attractions as you like, and come back as many times as you want to. But the more places you visit, the more money you save! Plan your vacation with the help of our overseas visitor Guidebook. The English Heritage website will also help you plan your visit before you travel. Once you have decided which attractions to explore, there is no need to get your money out at every attraction, and no need to keep track of your spending. The monuments bring the story of England to life, and have all been selected for their historic significance. Located in some of the most beautiful settings in England, they include mighty castles, tranquil monastic ruins, pleasant gardens and grand stately homes. Many host special events throughout the year, and your pass also gives you free or reduced price entry. You might even come face-to-face with a knight in shining armor. All sites have reduced opening times during the winter months (October to March). Detailed information available after booking. The full list of places you can access with your pass is as follows: In London: Apsley HouseChiswick HouseEltham Palace and GardensJewel TowerMarble Hill HouseRanger’s House - The Wernher CollectionWellington ArchIn the South East: 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & BattlefieldBayham Old AbbeyCarisbrooke CastleDeal CastleDover CastleFort Brockhurst (as part of a pre-booked group)Home of Charles Darwin (Down House)Lullingstone Roman VillaMedieval Merchant’s HouseOsborne HousePevensey CastlePortchester CastleRichborough Roman FortRochester CastleSt Augustine’s AbbeyWalmer Castle & GardensYarmouth CastleIn the South West: Berry Pomeroy CastleChysauster Ancient VillageCleeve AbbeyDartmouth CastleFarleigh Hungerford CastleHailes AbbeyLaunceston CastleMuchelney AbbeyOkehampton CastleOld SarumOld Wardour CastlePendennis CastlePortland CastleRestormel CastleSt Mawes CastleSherborne Old CastleStonehengeTintagel CastleTotnes Castle In the East of England: Audley End House & GardensBerney Arms Windmill (as part of a pre-booked group)Castle Acre PrioryDenny Abbey and the Farmland MuseumGreat Yarmouth Row Houses and Greyfriars’ CloisterGrime’s GravesFramlingham CastleOrford CastleSaxtead Green Post MillTilbury FortWrest Park In the East Midlands: Ashby de la Zouch CastleBolsover CastleHardwick Old HallKirby HallKirby Muxloe CastleLyddington Bede HousePeveril CastleSibsey Trader WindmillLincoln Medieval Bishops’ PalaceRushton Triangular LodgeIn the West Midlands: Boscobel House and the Royal OakBuildwas AbbeyGoodrich CastleHaughmond AbbeyKenilworth Castle and Elizabethan GardenStokesay CastleWenlock PrioryWitley Court and GardensWroxeter Roman CityIn Yorkshire: Aldborough Roman SiteBrodsworth Hall and GardensByland AbbeyClifford's TowerHelmsley CastleKirkham PrioryMiddleham CastleMount Grace PrioryPickering CastleRichmond CastleRievaulx AbbeyRoche AbbeySt Peter's ChurchScarborough CastleThornton Abbey and GatehouseWhitby AbbeyYork Cold War Bunker (pre-booked visits only)In the North West: Beeston Castle and Woodland ParkBrougham CastleCarlisle CastleFurness AbbeyLanercost PrioryStott Park Bobbin MillAt Hadrian's Wall: Birdoswald Roman FortChesters Roman FortCorbridge Roman TownHousesteads Roman FortIn the North East: Aydon CastleBarnard CastleBerwick-Upon-Tweed-BarracksBelsay Hall, Castle and GardensBrinkburn PrioryDunstanburgh CastleEtal CastleLindisfarne PrioryPrudhoe CastleTynemouth Priory and CastleWarkworth Castle

Whitby: Guided Distillery Tour with Gin Tasting

Whitby: Guided Distillery Tour with Gin Tasting

Explore the distillery with your guide and see first-hand how gin is produced. Learn about how artisan gin is distilled, bottled, labelled, sealed, and distributed, all by hand and in small batches. Mingle with the workers who produce the gin and discover their care and passion for their craft. Finally, enjoy a tutored tasting session of three award-winning spirits followed by your choice of gin and tonic. It is your chance to get behind the scenes and discover how we craft our international award-winning spirits. Get up close with our iconic copper still and gain exclusive insights on how we craft award-winning spirits.

Heartbeat TV Locations Tour of Yorkshire

Heartbeat TV Locations Tour of Yorkshire

Set in the 1960’s, Heartbeat proved a hit with audiences all over the world for nearly two decades.  Now, you can visit the locations of Aidensfield and Whitby where much of the show was filmed. The 7-hour tour will take you to some of the key locations from the show and showcase the beautiful scenery and history of the North Yorkshire Moors.  Setting off from York your first stop of the day will be Whitby, the seaside town perhaps most famously linked with Dracula and Captain Cook, but which featured as itself in Heartbeat. Here, you will get a guided tour of the town taking in locations used in the filming of the show.  Then you’ll have the opportunity to take lunch in one of the town’s world-renowned fish and chip shops. Finally, it’s off to the village of Aidensfield, the village most associated with the show and where most of the locations can be found.  A guided tour of this charming village will include Bernie Scripps Garage and Funeral Parlour, plus the train station that was featured as Aidensfield station in Heartbeat and as Hogsmeade in the first Harry Potter film. You will also see the post office and stores and, of course, there will be time to treat yourself to a drink in the Aidensfield Arms pub. Your tour will then return to central York.

From London: The North York Moors with Steam Train to Whitby

From London: The North York Moors with Steam Train to Whitby

Explore the North York Moors National Park by train on a day trip from London. Discover the Moors on a guided bus tour, enjoy a ride on a charming steam train, and take some time to explore the quaint town of Whitby. Begin your day at London's Kings Cross Station and hop on a train to York. Gaze out the window as you pass through the calming English countryside with its rolling hills and bucolic landscapes. Upon arrival in York meet your local guide to start your bus tour of the North York Moors. Head into the North York Moors National Park where you will discover the beautiful landscapes and historical sites before heading to the coast. First. stop at Byland Abbey, one of Yorkshire's best-preserved ruins. From Byland head through the ancient forests surrounding Wass and climb up Wass Bank and onward to the famous old market town of Helmsley, meaning “Helms” Flowery Meadow. Take a short break from the bus to explore the independent shops, use the facilities, and grab some refreshments. Learn about the area's historic significance including, burial mounds, religion, farming, mining, the Industrial Revolution, and much more. Traverse off the beaten track, down winding country lanes, through deep-cut glacial valleys, and up high over the windswept heather moorland. Arrive in “Heartbeat Country”, taken from the popular TV show Heartbeat. Stop in the charming village of Goathland that was the setting for the classic show set in the 1960s. Visit the must-see Goathland Station which became Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film. From Goathland Station join the historic North York Moors Railway for a nostalgic steam journey to the popular seaside town of Whitby. Upon arrival, enjoy 2 hours of free time to discover the town, with plenty of recommendations from your guide. Hop on the bus and travel back across the moors to York. Finally, board the train back to London's Kings Cross station.

York & North Yorkshire Moors: Online Travel Guide

York & North Yorkshire Moors: Online Travel Guide

This self-drive road trip route covers the North Yorkshire National Park and North Yorks coast, on a trip of 171 miles (278km) and includes a guide for 15 towns and villages. HOW IT WORKS This online guidebook is designed to take the guesswork out of planning your multi-destination trip. No need for endless internet searches—everything you need is in one place, carefully curated with recommendations and helpful links to dive deeper into each destination. Pick and choose from a variety of ideas, including top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences and customise your journey to suit your needs. Tailor the itinerary to fit your schedule, with flexible options ranging from 3 to 14 nights. Ideal if you’re travelling with your own car, campervan or rental vehicle. Get started today with instant access (choose the nearest date as with 1 year’s access, there’s no need to wait until your travel date). Use on smartphone, tablet, or desktop. ........................................................................................................................................................ WHAT’S INCLUDED: Plan your road trip around the North Yorkshire National Park, including the North York Moors and coast. This flexible itinerary covers a 171 miles (278km) route over 15 destinations. Due to its size, this is split into three smaller routes, York, the coast and the National Park. Choose your own itinerary and time frame. Use the guidebook to choose how to spend your time, example: • York: Spend one or two days exploring York’s medieval walls, York Minster, and the quaint Shambles. Enjoy river cruises, and visit the Jorvik Viking Centre. Choose options on your time frame. • Howardian Hills: discover the Hills and visit renowned Castle Howard. • Whitby: enjoy stunning coastal views, the legendary Whitby Abbey, wander the town and eat some of the best fish and chips! • Scarborough: spend a day at the seaside resort of Scarborough known for its beautiful beaches and historic castle. • Classic Yorkshire Coast: Enjoy lesser-known bays and unique towns, along the coast. • North York Moors: Explore sweeping heather moorlands and charming villages, such as Grosmont, for steam train enthusiasts and Thornton-le-Dale with its storybook charm. • Journey through the untamed North York Moors, a canvas of heather-clad hills that captivated artists. • Historic sites: visit stately homes, abbeys and a priory. • Uncover secrets in abbeys and grand estates, tales of opulence and spirituality. • Experience the coastal vistas that fuelled artists' imagination and explore a realm where myths intertwine with the landscape's mystique. • Includes an overnight stays map for locating accommodation or campsites on the route. Plus so much more to discover! HOW TO ACCESS: see Know Before You Go

From Edinburgh: 5 Day Best of Northern England Tour

From Edinburgh: 5 Day Best of Northern England Tour

Day 1 Leaving Edinburgh behind, you trace the stunning East Lothian coastline to the walled town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. After a stop to admire the fortifications, continue to Bamburgh Castle. Next, journey towards York on the historic Great North Road, once trodden by Roman legions. Arrive in York in the late afternoon, where you'll spend the next two nights. Day 2 This leisurely day gives you the flexibility to spend time exploring the medieval heart of York. Your journey begins in the late morning when you head for the magnificent North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Lunch will be in Whitby, a bustling fishing port and the inspiration for the fertile imagination of author Bram Stoker. After lunch and free time in Whitby, travel to the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay*, a perfectly preserved conservation village of winding lanes and narrow alleys before returning to York. Day 3 Head west in the morning into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Established in 1954, the Yorkshire Dales National Park has outstanding scenery, a range of wildlife habitats, and rich cultural heritage. Continuing West, your route takes us through the Northern Dales, a beautiful area of natural beauty that is the center of the Dales cattle trade. The final leg of today’s journey ascends into the remote hills of the Yorkshire Dales before descending into the lively market town of Keswick, where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation. Day 4 After breakfast, head a short distance out of town to the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, thought by many to have been built over 5,000 years ago. Then travel on to the shores of Ullswater, described as England’s most beautiful lake, for a forest walk to see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. Continuing south over the narrow and winding Kirkstone Pass, stop at Lake Windermere for a leisurely cruise on the lake or simply eat lunch while enjoying views of the mountains and lakes. After lunch, journey around the southern tip of Windermere towards Coniston Water, reaching the charming conservation village of Hawkeshead. Explore the village, then follow narrow country lanes north to Grasmere. Here, enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or relax in the peaceful Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothay. Return to Keswick in the late afternoon. Day 5 Leaving the Lakes behind, start your climb towards Hartside Pass, at over 1900 feet above sea level, with the hills and mountains of Scotland and the English Lake District easily visible on a clear day. Follow the route of the old sheep drovers road between England and Scotland, stopping at Hadrian's Wall along the way, and crossing the border into Scotland and towards the town of Jedburgh for refreshments by the ruins of Jedburgh Abbey. The final stop of the tour is at the world-famous Scott’s view with stunning views over the River Tweed and the Cheviot hills that form the border between Scotland before continuing North to Edinburgh.

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Our most recommended things to do in Whitby

From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

Explore the best of Whitby and the North Yorkshire Moors on this captivating full-day tour to one of Britain's most scenic areas. Explore some of its many famous historical sites and adventure across the spectacular landscape. Here you’ll take a trip to the seaside town of Whitby once you arrive in the town it would be rude not to sample the famous Fish and Chips before exploring the historic port town. A short drive out through the city and northwards shortly brings us to one of Yorkshire finest ruins. Byland Abbey which stands just inside the boundary of the North York Moors National Park. One of over 70 Monastic ruins in Yorkshire, it helps to put Yorkshires incredible history into perspective. From Byland we head through the ancient forests surrounding Wass and climb up Wass Bank and onward to the famous old market town of Helmsley, meaning “Helms” Flowery Meadow. Helmsley has been an important settlement for at least 1500 years. Take a little break from the bus to explore the independent shops, use the facilities and grab some refreshments. Your guide will explain the regions place in history, including, burial mounds, religion, farming, mining, the industrial revolution and much more. You will be driven to places that many people don’t know of. Truly off the beaten track, down winding country lanes, through deep cut glacial valleys and up high over the brooding windswept heather moorland that covers a third of this breathtaking landscape. Before long you will arrive in “Heartbeat Country”, taken from the popular TV show Heartbeat and into “Aidensfield” itself. Goathland is the real name of the charming village that was the setting for the classic show set in the 1960’s. You will get a chance for a photo in the village before proceeding to the very quaint old railway station the once doubled as “Hogsmeade” Station in the Harry Potter films. Once you get to Whitby there will be plenty of time for lunch, a chance to try the famous fish and chips or explore the towns fasinating history. Learn about Captain Cook who set sail from Whitby on the Bark Endeavor to discover Australia. Perhaps you want to Visit Whitby Abbey, synonymous with Dracula. What ever you prefer your guide will offer his best advice. You will have up to 2 hours free time in Whitby before rejoining the bus and heading back across the moors and returning to York.

From York: Moors, Whitby, and the Yorkshire Steam Railway

From York: Moors, Whitby, and the Yorkshire Steam Railway

Leave the city and travel through the Vale of York, learning about life in Yorkshire as you head for the first stop in the traditional National Park village of Hutton-le-Hole. Pass the 16th-century Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge at the highest point of the moors. See some of the pretty villages on the way to Whitby and hear stories from the seaside town’s history. Choose how you want to spend your two and a half hours in Whitby. See the Abbey, visit the Captain Cook attractions, shop for gothic fashion or enjoy a fish and chips lunch, the choice is yours. Opt to spend less time in Whitby and climb aboard a steam train on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway at a special discounted rate, paid locally on the day. See Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter movies and more. Alternatively, journey to Goathland by minibus in time see the other passengers arrive by steam train. Explore the fictional village of Aidensfield from the TV show, Heartbeat. Learn the history behind the mysterious RAF Fylingdales Pyramid on Snod Hill and see the Hole of Horcum before heading back towards York through the Howardian Hills with panoramic views of Castle Howard.

Whitby: Whitby Abbey Ticket

Whitby: Whitby Abbey Ticket

There’s more to see and do at the abbey than ever before. With fantastic views over the coast, a revamped museum and wide open grounds to roam, it’s a great value day out for everyone. Uncover over 13 centuries of history as you explore the stunning ruins of this Gothic abbey. Originally founded in AD 657 by King Oswy of Northumbria, Whitby Abbey has been the site of inspiration for many religious leaders, artists, writers and poets. Set high on a cliff, take in scenic views of the coastline and famous fishing port as you find out how St Hild fought snakes and how the abbey inspired Caedmon, the first named English poet, and the author of ‘Dracula’, Bram Stoker.

English Heritage: Attractions Pass for Overseas Visitors

English Heritage: Attractions Pass for Overseas Visitors

Get a range of benefits with a 9-day or 16-day single or family English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass, offering free entry to more than 100 stately homes, castles, prehistoric remains and gardens the length and breadth of England. Only available to non-UK residents, the great value pass will save you money even if you only visit 2 or 3 attractions, making a 9-day pass suitable for a weekend break. You can visit as many English Heritage attractions as you like, and come back as many times as you want to. But the more places you visit, the more money you save! Plan your vacation with the help of our overseas visitor Guidebook. The English Heritage website will also help you plan your visit before you travel. Once you have decided which attractions to explore, there is no need to get your money out at every attraction, and no need to keep track of your spending. The monuments bring the story of England to life, and have all been selected for their historic significance. Located in some of the most beautiful settings in England, they include mighty castles, tranquil monastic ruins, pleasant gardens and grand stately homes. Many host special events throughout the year, and your pass also gives you free or reduced price entry. You might even come face-to-face with a knight in shining armor. All sites have reduced opening times during the winter months (October to March). Detailed information available after booking. The full list of places you can access with your pass is as follows: In London: Apsley HouseChiswick HouseEltham Palace and GardensJewel TowerMarble Hill HouseRanger’s House - The Wernher CollectionWellington ArchIn the South East: 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & BattlefieldBayham Old AbbeyCarisbrooke CastleDeal CastleDover CastleFort Brockhurst (as part of a pre-booked group)Home of Charles Darwin (Down House)Lullingstone Roman VillaMedieval Merchant’s HouseOsborne HousePevensey CastlePortchester CastleRichborough Roman FortRochester CastleSt Augustine’s AbbeyWalmer Castle & GardensYarmouth CastleIn the South West: Berry Pomeroy CastleChysauster Ancient VillageCleeve AbbeyDartmouth CastleFarleigh Hungerford CastleHailes AbbeyLaunceston CastleMuchelney AbbeyOkehampton CastleOld SarumOld Wardour CastlePendennis CastlePortland CastleRestormel CastleSt Mawes CastleSherborne Old CastleStonehengeTintagel CastleTotnes Castle In the East of England: Audley End House & GardensBerney Arms Windmill (as part of a pre-booked group)Castle Acre PrioryDenny Abbey and the Farmland MuseumGreat Yarmouth Row Houses and Greyfriars’ CloisterGrime’s GravesFramlingham CastleOrford CastleSaxtead Green Post MillTilbury FortWrest Park In the East Midlands: Ashby de la Zouch CastleBolsover CastleHardwick Old HallKirby HallKirby Muxloe CastleLyddington Bede HousePeveril CastleSibsey Trader WindmillLincoln Medieval Bishops’ PalaceRushton Triangular LodgeIn the West Midlands: Boscobel House and the Royal OakBuildwas AbbeyGoodrich CastleHaughmond AbbeyKenilworth Castle and Elizabethan GardenStokesay CastleWenlock PrioryWitley Court and GardensWroxeter Roman CityIn Yorkshire: Aldborough Roman SiteBrodsworth Hall and GardensByland AbbeyClifford's TowerHelmsley CastleKirkham PrioryMiddleham CastleMount Grace PrioryPickering CastleRichmond CastleRievaulx AbbeyRoche AbbeySt Peter's ChurchScarborough CastleThornton Abbey and GatehouseWhitby AbbeyYork Cold War Bunker (pre-booked visits only)In the North West: Beeston Castle and Woodland ParkBrougham CastleCarlisle CastleFurness AbbeyLanercost PrioryStott Park Bobbin MillAt Hadrian's Wall: Birdoswald Roman FortChesters Roman FortCorbridge Roman TownHousesteads Roman FortIn the North East: Aydon CastleBarnard CastleBerwick-Upon-Tweed-BarracksBelsay Hall, Castle and GardensBrinkburn PrioryDunstanburgh CastleEtal CastleLindisfarne PrioryPrudhoe CastleTynemouth Priory and CastleWarkworth Castle

Whitby: Guided Distillery Tour with Gin Tasting

Whitby: Guided Distillery Tour with Gin Tasting

Explore the distillery with your guide and see first-hand how gin is produced. Learn about how artisan gin is distilled, bottled, labelled, sealed, and distributed, all by hand and in small batches. Mingle with the workers who produce the gin and discover their care and passion for their craft. Finally, enjoy a tutored tasting session of three award-winning spirits followed by your choice of gin and tonic. It is your chance to get behind the scenes and discover how we craft our international award-winning spirits. Get up close with our iconic copper still and gain exclusive insights on how we craft award-winning spirits.

Heartbeat TV Locations Tour of Yorkshire

Heartbeat TV Locations Tour of Yorkshire

Set in the 1960’s, Heartbeat proved a hit with audiences all over the world for nearly two decades.  Now, you can visit the locations of Aidensfield and Whitby where much of the show was filmed. The 7-hour tour will take you to some of the key locations from the show and showcase the beautiful scenery and history of the North Yorkshire Moors.  Setting off from York your first stop of the day will be Whitby, the seaside town perhaps most famously linked with Dracula and Captain Cook, but which featured as itself in Heartbeat. Here, you will get a guided tour of the town taking in locations used in the filming of the show.  Then you’ll have the opportunity to take lunch in one of the town’s world-renowned fish and chip shops. Finally, it’s off to the village of Aidensfield, the village most associated with the show and where most of the locations can be found.  A guided tour of this charming village will include Bernie Scripps Garage and Funeral Parlour, plus the train station that was featured as Aidensfield station in Heartbeat and as Hogsmeade in the first Harry Potter film. You will also see the post office and stores and, of course, there will be time to treat yourself to a drink in the Aidensfield Arms pub. Your tour will then return to central York.

From London: The North York Moors with Steam Train to Whitby

From London: The North York Moors with Steam Train to Whitby

Explore the North York Moors National Park by train on a day trip from London. Discover the Moors on a guided bus tour, enjoy a ride on a charming steam train, and take some time to explore the quaint town of Whitby. Begin your day at London's Kings Cross Station and hop on a train to York. Gaze out the window as you pass through the calming English countryside with its rolling hills and bucolic landscapes. Upon arrival in York meet your local guide to start your bus tour of the North York Moors. Head into the North York Moors National Park where you will discover the beautiful landscapes and historical sites before heading to the coast. First. stop at Byland Abbey, one of Yorkshire's best-preserved ruins. From Byland head through the ancient forests surrounding Wass and climb up Wass Bank and onward to the famous old market town of Helmsley, meaning “Helms” Flowery Meadow. Take a short break from the bus to explore the independent shops, use the facilities, and grab some refreshments. Learn about the area's historic significance including, burial mounds, religion, farming, mining, the Industrial Revolution, and much more. Traverse off the beaten track, down winding country lanes, through deep-cut glacial valleys, and up high over the windswept heather moorland. Arrive in “Heartbeat Country”, taken from the popular TV show Heartbeat. Stop in the charming village of Goathland that was the setting for the classic show set in the 1960s. Visit the must-see Goathland Station which became Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film. From Goathland Station join the historic North York Moors Railway for a nostalgic steam journey to the popular seaside town of Whitby. Upon arrival, enjoy 2 hours of free time to discover the town, with plenty of recommendations from your guide. Hop on the bus and travel back across the moors to York. Finally, board the train back to London's Kings Cross station.

York & North Yorkshire Moors: Online Travel Guide

York & North Yorkshire Moors: Online Travel Guide

This self-drive road trip route covers the North Yorkshire National Park and North Yorks coast, on a trip of 171 miles (278km) and includes a guide for 15 towns and villages. HOW IT WORKS This online guidebook is designed to take the guesswork out of planning your multi-destination trip. No need for endless internet searches—everything you need is in one place, carefully curated with recommendations and helpful links to dive deeper into each destination. Pick and choose from a variety of ideas, including top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences and customise your journey to suit your needs. Tailor the itinerary to fit your schedule, with flexible options ranging from 3 to 14 nights. Ideal if you’re travelling with your own car, campervan or rental vehicle. Get started today with instant access (choose the nearest date as with 1 year’s access, there’s no need to wait until your travel date). Use on smartphone, tablet, or desktop. ........................................................................................................................................................ WHAT’S INCLUDED: Plan your road trip around the North Yorkshire National Park, including the North York Moors and coast. This flexible itinerary covers a 171 miles (278km) route over 15 destinations. Due to its size, this is split into three smaller routes, York, the coast and the National Park. Choose your own itinerary and time frame. Use the guidebook to choose how to spend your time, example: • York: Spend one or two days exploring York’s medieval walls, York Minster, and the quaint Shambles. Enjoy river cruises, and visit the Jorvik Viking Centre. Choose options on your time frame. • Howardian Hills: discover the Hills and visit renowned Castle Howard. • Whitby: enjoy stunning coastal views, the legendary Whitby Abbey, wander the town and eat some of the best fish and chips! • Scarborough: spend a day at the seaside resort of Scarborough known for its beautiful beaches and historic castle. • Classic Yorkshire Coast: Enjoy lesser-known bays and unique towns, along the coast. • North York Moors: Explore sweeping heather moorlands and charming villages, such as Grosmont, for steam train enthusiasts and Thornton-le-Dale with its storybook charm. • Journey through the untamed North York Moors, a canvas of heather-clad hills that captivated artists. • Historic sites: visit stately homes, abbeys and a priory. • Uncover secrets in abbeys and grand estates, tales of opulence and spirituality. • Experience the coastal vistas that fuelled artists' imagination and explore a realm where myths intertwine with the landscape's mystique. • Includes an overnight stays map for locating accommodation or campsites on the route. Plus so much more to discover! HOW TO ACCESS: see Know Before You Go

From Edinburgh: 5 Day Best of Northern England Tour

From Edinburgh: 5 Day Best of Northern England Tour

Day 1 Leaving Edinburgh behind, you trace the stunning East Lothian coastline to the walled town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. After a stop to admire the fortifications, continue to Bamburgh Castle. Next, journey towards York on the historic Great North Road, once trodden by Roman legions. Arrive in York in the late afternoon, where you'll spend the next two nights. Day 2 This leisurely day gives you the flexibility to spend time exploring the medieval heart of York. Your journey begins in the late morning when you head for the magnificent North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Lunch will be in Whitby, a bustling fishing port and the inspiration for the fertile imagination of author Bram Stoker. After lunch and free time in Whitby, travel to the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay*, a perfectly preserved conservation village of winding lanes and narrow alleys before returning to York. Day 3 Head west in the morning into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Established in 1954, the Yorkshire Dales National Park has outstanding scenery, a range of wildlife habitats, and rich cultural heritage. Continuing West, your route takes us through the Northern Dales, a beautiful area of natural beauty that is the center of the Dales cattle trade. The final leg of today’s journey ascends into the remote hills of the Yorkshire Dales before descending into the lively market town of Keswick, where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation. Day 4 After breakfast, head a short distance out of town to the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, thought by many to have been built over 5,000 years ago. Then travel on to the shores of Ullswater, described as England’s most beautiful lake, for a forest walk to see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. Continuing south over the narrow and winding Kirkstone Pass, stop at Lake Windermere for a leisurely cruise on the lake or simply eat lunch while enjoying views of the mountains and lakes. After lunch, journey around the southern tip of Windermere towards Coniston Water, reaching the charming conservation village of Hawkeshead. Explore the village, then follow narrow country lanes north to Grasmere. Here, enjoy free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or relax in the peaceful Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothay. Return to Keswick in the late afternoon. Day 5 Leaving the Lakes behind, start your climb towards Hartside Pass, at over 1900 feet above sea level, with the hills and mountains of Scotland and the English Lake District easily visible on a clear day. Follow the route of the old sheep drovers road between England and Scotland, stopping at Hadrian's Wall along the way, and crossing the border into Scotland and towards the town of Jedburgh for refreshments by the ruins of Jedburgh Abbey. The final stop of the tour is at the world-famous Scott’s view with stunning views over the River Tweed and the Cheviot hills that form the border between Scotland before continuing North to Edinburgh.

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What people are saying about Whitby

Overall rating

4.8
(364 reviews)

The trip was fantastic. From start to finish. We had Barry as our driver/guide, and we couldn't have had better. He is so personable, so knowledgeable, so obliging. He took us to places, and told us things we would never otherwise have seen nor known. The content of the tour, and length was perfect. Very comfortable bus. I couldn't recommend the tour enough .. marvellous .. made more perfect by Barry.

Great. John S., our driver and tour guide was awesome! He made sure we saw and understood the sites and the historical significance. Weather, the previous day, left snow on roads, he was familiar with the areas and took the safest routes. I would definitely recommend this day tour.

Excellent, our driver John was first rate top class, very informative, friendly, he soon had everyone on the bus very relaxed due to his sense of humour and expertise

John is super nice. He told us a lot of things in a dynamic way and the stops are very well chosen. It's really worth it. It was a wonderful day.

Trevor was my guide of the trip and he provided a excellent explanation mentioning all the history and information. I am very happy with the trip!!!