Whitby Live Cam

A seaside town, port and civil parish in North Yorkshire



Hosted by:
  • Haglathe House
  • 20 Henrietta Street - Whitby
  • North Yorkshire YO22 4DW - United Kingdom
  • 07484 144623
  • [email protected]
  • http://www.haglathe.com/

Whitby History

Whitby is a historic seaside town located on the east coast of England, in the county of North Yorkshire. The town has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 7th century.

Whitby was founded in 657 AD when Saint Hilda established a monastery here. The monastery became a center of learning and attracted many scholars and monks, including the famous Caedmon, who is considered to be the first English poet. The monastery was destroyed by Viking raiders in the 9th century, but was later rebuilt as a Benedictine abbey.

During the medieval period, Whitby became an important port for the wool trade and also for the export of alum, a mineral used in the dyeing of cloth. The town grew in size and prosperity, and many fine buildings were constructed during this time, including the ruins of Whitby Abbey, which are now one of the town's most famous landmarks.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Whitby became a major center for shipbuilding and fishing, and the town played an important role in the development of the whaling industry. It was during this time that Captain Cook, one of the town's most famous sons, learned his trade as a sailor and navigator.

Whitby also played a significant role in the development of the railway, as it was the site of the world's first railway viaduct, which was constructed in 1835. The town continued to thrive as a port and resort throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting many visitors who came to enjoy the sea air and the picturesque scenery.

Today, Whitby is a popular tourist destination, known for its historic buildings, picturesque harbor, and associations with Captain Cook and the writer Bram Stoker, who was inspired to write his famous novel Dracula after staying in the town. Whitby also has a thriving fishing industry, and the town is still an important center for the production of smoked fish, including the famous Whitby kippers.

Whitby Top Tourist Attractions

  • Whitby Abbey - This ruined abbey is one of the most iconic landmarks in Whitby. It dates back to the 7th century and has a fascinating history.
  • Whitby Harbour - The harbour is a picturesque spot where visitors can watch the fishing boats come in and out.
  • Captain Cook Memorial Museum - This museum is dedicated to the life and achievements of Captain Cook, who was born in Whitby.
  • St Mary's Church - This historic church has a prominent position on the headland overlooking the town and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Whitby Museum - This museum has a collection of exhibits that explore the town's history, including fossils, paintings, and local artefacts.
  • Whitby Beach - The sandy beach is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the sea air.
  • Dracula Experience - This attraction is dedicated to the famous novel Dracula by Bram Stoker, who was inspired to write the book after staying in Whitby.
  • 199 Steps - These steps lead up to the ruins of Whitby Abbey and offer panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area.
  • Pannett Park - This beautiful park is home to a museum, art gallery, and botanical gardens, making it a great place to relax and learn about the local history.
  • Whitby Pavilion - This entertainment complex hosts a range of events, including concerts, theatre performances, and comedy shows.

Whitby Climate

Whitby has a temperate maritime climate, with cool to mild temperatures throughout the year. The town experiences a relatively high amount of rainfall, with the wettest months being between October and January.

In the summer months of June to August, the average high temperature ranges from 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F), while the average low temperature ranges from 9°C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F). The sea temperature is also at its warmest during this time, ranging from 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F).

In the winter months of December to February, the average high temperature ranges from 6°C to 8°C (43°F to 46°F), while the average low temperature ranges from 1°C to 3°C (34°F to 37°F). Snow is not uncommon during this time, though it is usually light and does not cause significant disruptions.

Overall, the weather in Whitby can be changeable and visitors are advised to pack for a range of temperatures and conditions.

Whitby Geography

Whitby is a coastal town located in the northeast of England, in the county of North Yorkshire. The town is situated at the mouth of the River Esk, which runs through the town and out into the North Sea.

The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the North York Moors National Park to the west and the North Sea to the east. The town itself is situated on a headland that overlooks the harbor and the sea.

The town is split into two parts by the River Esk: the East Side and the West Side. The East Side is the older part of the town, where the historic abbey and many of the town's other historic buildings are located. The West Side is the newer part of the town, where many of the shops, restaurants, and other amenities are located.

Whitby has a rugged and dramatic coastline, with cliffs and beaches that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The town is also home to a number of interesting geological features, including fossils and rock formations that date back millions of years.