Seaside town 'one of Britain's best' with glorious beaches and top restaurants
Recognised as one of the UK's top seaside amusement locations, this charming coastal town has long been a hit with those yearning for a traditional beach holiday. Nestled at the mouth of the River Esk, Whitby in North Yorkshire is steeped in a rich history rooted in maritime, mineral and tourism trades.
Its appeal as a tourist hotspot is further amplified by its close proximity to the North York Moors national park and the heritage coastline, not to mention its eerie link to the horror novel Dracula. The town's most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the ruined abbey perched on the East Cliff.
Other notable features include the swing bridge spanning the river and the harbour, safeguarded by the grade II listed East and West piers.
Whitby's nautical history is honoured through statues of explorer Captain Cook and whaler and scientist William Scoresby, as well as the whalebone arch that graces the West Cliff, reports the Express.
The town also boasts a robust literary tradition, having been featured in numerous works, television programmes and films, most notably Bram Stoker's renowned novel, according to Yorkshire Live. If Whitby doesn't tickle your fancy, you might consider this stunning town on the Welsh coast.
A recent survey ranked Whitby seventh on the list of the UK's top holiday entertainment destinations.
The survey considers factors such as the number of pubs, restaurants, museums, parks, zoos and aquariums, water and amusement parks, arcades, beach review scores, hotel prices, Google searches, average temperature, average rainfall and local train stations.
Whitby boasts a variety of highly-rated dining establishments, ranging from cosy coffee shops to gastropubs and sea-view restaurants. There are three five-star rated eateries on TripAdvisor, ideal for those seeking a delicious meal.
First up is Lush Coffee on Silver Street, which earned the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award for 2023.
Promising a 'warm welcome', this coffee shop offers freshly brewed coffee, quintessential Yorkshire Tea, hearty full English breakfasts, hot and cold sandwiches, toasties, burgers, and an array of homemade cakes and treats.
They also provide outdoor seating and welcome dogs. For those in search of a more upscale dining experience, Ditto, another five-star rated establishment and recipient of the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award for 2023, could be just the ticket.
Situated a mere stone's throw from the beach on Skinner Street, this family-run restaurant is the perfect spot for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in a special meal while visiting the town.
Just around the corner, Beckett's has scooped up the bronze for top-notch dining in Whitby, with an impressive 875 TripAdvisor reviews lauding its selection of hot beverages, savoury treats, breakfasts, brunches, and cakes, all acclaimed for their "excellent quality".
Make sure your itinerary includes Cranberry Swamp – a firm favourite among breakfast aficionados, Al Taco for some Mexican flair, and The Postgate Country Inn for a slice of British tradition.
No coastal getaway is complete without sipping on a cold beer, a glass of prosecco, a sophisticated cocktail or a refreshing mocktail under the warmth of the sunshine.
Whether you're seeking a serene spot to relax or a lively evening filled with karaoke entertainment, Whitby's varied pubs and bars cater to all tastes.
Whitby is dotted with hotels and B&Bs suitable for every budget, some with stunning sea views that are truly unrivalled.
TripAdvisor heralds Hillcrest as the crème de la crème of hospitality, ideally situated close to the bustling town centre and easily accessible from a treasure trove of local shops, eateries, pubs, and attractions.
The establishment is not only bike-friendly, offering secure storage, but with their insider knowledge, they're ready to point you towards exceptional spots for cycling, rambling, and watersports such as paddle-boarding and surfing. On top of that, their luxurious rooms offer ample space for families.
Other establishments in Whitby receiving high praise include The Stables, The Penny Hedge Lodge, and The Belfry.
Whitby is home to one of Yorkshire's most pristine and secure beaches, recently honoured with a Blue Flag. This international recognition is bestowed upon well-kept beaches boasting superior water quality.
There's an array of other beaches to explore as well. Whitby West Cliff Beach, a favoured sandy location interspersed with rocky patches, is supervised by lifeguards from May through September.
The beach extends from Upgang Beach to the River Esk's mouth and is conveniently situated on Whitby town's northern fringe, just a brief stroll from the town centre.
Access points to the beach are scattered along Cleveland Way, North Terrace, and North Promenade. On sun-drenched days, families gather on the sandy stretch between Upgang Beach and West Pier.
A line of colourful beach huts are available for hire, and deckchairs and windbreaks can be found near the slipway at West Pier.
From May to September, a seasonal dog ban is enforced on Whitby West Cliff Beach. However, dogs are permitted all year round on the nearby Tate Hill Beach.
Other popular beaches in Whitby include Sandsend Beach and Runswick Bay.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
3 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
UK's best town is sandwiched between two of the country's most beautiful cities
The quaint market town of Wetherby, in West Yorkshire, has been named one of the best towns across the country - and it's no wonder why people love it so much Nestled in the West Yorkshire countryside, a charming market town has been recognised as one of the top towns nationwide. Located equidistant from the cities of Leeds and York, Wetherby is just a short distance away from two of the UK's most picturesque urban areas. Perched on the banks of the River Wharfe, this medieval town offers a blend of rich history and contemporary conveniences. The distinctive allure of the town's Georgian architecture coupled with its vibrant community spirit has earned it a place among the country's most sought-after towns. Wetherby's town centre is home to an array of traditional pubs, chic boutiques, independent coffee shops, and a selection of local grocers and butchers. A weekly farmer's market takes place around the Grade II listed town hall, while an artisan market showcasing locally crafted ceramics, jewellery and other items occurs twice monthly. Beyond the bustling town centre, Wetherby Racecourse hosts National Hunt and Flat Fixtures from October through June. The racecourse also serves as a venue for regular car boot sales and antique fairs, among other events. Throughout Wetherby, a network of marked walks, trails and parks offer tranquil scenic routes for exploring the town, including a stunning riverside path that passes by the Brass Band performing on Sundays during the summer months. On a practical note, Wetherby boasts five schools, including two primary schools rated outstanding by Ofsted, reports the Express. With a population of approximately 11,000, which has seen a slight decrease in recent years, and an average house price just shy of £400,000, Wetherby truly is a gem in the Yorkshire countryside. Thanks to its prime position, Wetherby boasts the benefits of easy city commuting coupled with the serene lifestyle of riverside living. Wetherby is situated 12 miles from both Leeds and York, and a mere eight miles from the town of Harrogate.
Daily Mirror
4 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
'Most beautiful' street between two famous cities is carved into the rocks
The street is built in a giant overhanging cave, giving it its name of "shelters beneath the rocks" in the whitewashed town of Setenil de las Bodegas in Andalusia, Spain Nestled directly between Seville and Málaga, the breathtaking Spanish town of Setenil de las Bodegas boasts one of the globe's most enchanting streets. Here, whitewashed houses are hewn straight from the rockface, known locally as "abrigos bajo las rocas", or shelters beneath the rocks in English. Located about 98 miles northeast of Cádiz, Setenil de las Bodegas earned its moniker for two distinct reasons. The first stems from the era of Reconquista, where it's believed that Christians took 15 days to conquer the castle and made over seven attempts to reclaim the village. READ MORE: Boots' new 'by far the best' range including gut powder that 'really helps with bloating' This historical feat inspired the name "Setenil", derived from the Latin "Septem Nihil", which translates to "seven times no". The second part of its name, Bodegas, meaning "wineries'', from its once thriving wine trade, reports the Express. Today, the town is most known for its delicious almonds and olives, picked from the surrounding fields of olive trees. Home to roughly 3,000 people, Setenil de las Bodegas' distinctive setting is along a narrow river gorge, extending along the course of Rio Trejo river. The town itself has been described as one of the most picturesque towns in Andalusia. The canyon was formed naturally by water from the creek below. There are several key sites that any visitor must see. Nazari Castle, which dates from at least the Almohad period in the 12th-century, once had about 40 towers. Today, only one remains, but it is possible to climb to the top for a couple of pounds, for which you are rewarded with beautiful views across the village and valley. The nearby Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is a rare example of a Moorish and a Gothic church. Plaza de Andalucía is a perfect spot to stop for lunch, with the square offering a selection of bars and restaurants serving tapas and other dishes, and giving you the first glimpse of the rocky buildings. In prehistoric times, it is believed that Troglodytes (cave dwellers) lived within the caves in this village, according to Salt in our Hair. The modern town evolved from a fortified Moorish town that occupied a bluff overlooking a sharp bend in the Rio Trejo. Today, the houses built by villagers in the spaces between the rocks remain, preventing them from getting too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. There are several streets which must be experienced. The main street - Calle Cuevas del Sol ("caves of the sun") - is built under a massive slab of overhanging rock. It is home to many cave restaurants sandwiched between mammoth boulders and the charming river. One particular recommendation is wild asparagus soup, a delicacy in the village, according to Salt in our Hair. Calle Cuevas de la Sombra ("caves of the shade") is the narrowest street, while Calle Herrería is the oldest, known as the most romantic spot in Setenil. Couples often get a photo together under the plaque "Besame en este Rincon", translating to "kiss me in this place". The best time to visit is usually in the morning and evening, as tour buses tend to arrive in the middle of the day. This makes the streets particularly busy in the summer, when temperatures can reach up to 40. Spanish lunchtime is generally between 2 and 4pm. After this, locals will typically go for a siesta, and restaurants will not reopen again until around 8pm. While Jerez is the closest airport, it is very small and mainly runs domestic flights. Most, therefore, travel from Málaga. From here, you can hire a car to give more flexibility, and enjoy the added benefit of the beautiful drive to the town, particularly between Setenil and Olvera (another white village in Andalusia) through olive groves and sunflower fields. The town is about 20 to 30 minutes from Ronda and about an hour and a half from Málaga. It is also possible to book day tours from Málaga, but as previously mentioned these tend to arrive when the town is at its busiest and hottest. On Tripadvisor, Calle Cuevas De La Sombra was described as "extremely cool to see" and being "great for photo opportunities". Calle Cueva Del Sol too was highly recommended: "The buildings are filled with tourist shops, local wares boutiques and numerous restaurants and is packed with tourists, who create an amazing atmosphere."
Business News Wales
6 hours ago
- Business News Wales
Multi-Million Pound Luxury Holiday Retreat to Open its Gates for Charity Garden Event
A luxury holiday park nestled within one of the UK's most scenic landscapes will unveil the rich beauty of its 120-acre estate for charity. Maes Mynan Park, located in the tranquil village of Afonwen near Caerwys, Flintshire, is set to open its gates to the public on Saturday July 12 for the National Open Garden Scheme (NGS), which has raised millions of pounds for nursing and health organisations over the years. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to explore the privately-owned retreat, which lies within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape (AONB). The multi-million pound site offers a captivating experience, with sweeping panoramic views, woodland, a sequoia grove, freshwater lakes and a stunning array of wild flora and fauna, birds and wildlife that flourish across the diverse landscape. Acorn Leisure owners Peter and Louise Barlow hope the event's success will amplify both awareness and fundraising efforts. To that end, there will be 32 stalls to attract footfall and support local businesses and artisans on the day of the event. 'This is a truly magical place that harmoniously blends luxury and nature,' said Louise. 'With its tranquil parkland, amazing panoramic views, lakes and woodland and a history steeped in legends of Welsh princes, Tudor royalty, and local industry, Maes Mynan Park offers a setting unlike any other, so we are delighted to share that with the public in support of such worthy causes.' Peter added: 'Alongside the beauty of the estate and the significant investment we've made into its development, we believe in sharing this special place with second homeowners who want to be part of a naturally beautiful landscape. 'Opening up the park to the public for charity, so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of the hard work we, as a small team, have undertaken to change this old sand and gravel quarry into a hidden gem, that some call 'Little Switzerland', will be a great experience day for everyone who attends.' The day will also celebrate sustainability and regional craftsmanship, showcasing more than 30 artisan producers and independent businesses from North Wales and the North West. Highlights include handcrafted goods and culinary delights from acclaimed names such as Wernog Wood, Little Welsh Aromas, SheepFloof, Karen's Kakes and Confections, Kirsty Williams Ceramics, Cariad Gin, and Griff's Big Ribs BBQ. Louise added: 'Guests will have the chance to engage with some of the region's finest producers. With handcrafted items, gourmet treats, and seating to admire the views and walks, it promises to be an inspiring and unforgettable day for everyone.' Proceeds from the event will support a variety of UK charities through the National Garden Scheme, including Hospice UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Parkinson's UK. The Maes Mynan National Open Garden Scheme Day runs from 10.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday July 12. Entry is £4 for adults (donated to NGS and its charities), with free admission for children and on-site parking. Limited wheelchair access available along tarmac road behind the lodge holiday homes.
