Holiday rentals in Whitby

Gothic charm abounds in this north Yorkshire fishing port — so much so that Bram Stoker set the final scene of Dracula here. With its abbey ruins, narrow cobbled streets, and spectacular cliffs, it’s no wonder Whitby has inspired so many ghost stories. Clinging to the coast between the North Yorkshire moors and the North Sea, just north of Scarborough, the town combines quaint 18th-century charm with rugged tenacity; its maritime history includes whaling and even exploring (there’s a monument to Captain Cook, who began his career here). There’s an old-world feel to Whitby’s seaside, a world of donkey rides, sandcastles, cottages, and fish and chips. And at the end of the day, it’s a great place from which to explore England’s wildest coast.

Watch out for the winds on the North Yorkshire coast — they’re liable to blow you around a bit. It’s worth packing plenty of warm gear, no matter the season. Layers, light coats, and a waterproof jacket or poncho are essential, especially if you’re planning on doing some walking: It rains here just as much in the summer as it does in the winter, and sometimes more. Temperatures climb to an average high of 62 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August and drop to an average low of 42 degrees in January and February. April and May tend to be the driest months.

Whitby Abbey

These haunting Gothic ruins date back to the 7th century, and the abbey was operational until Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries, 900 years later. Come for the creep factor (the abbey is said to be haunted), but stay for the sweeping views of the majestic North Sea.

Robin Hood’s Bay

A three-hour scenic walk from Whitby takes you along a stunning section of the North Yorkshire Heritage Coast and deposits you in a picturesque fishing village packed with colorful pubs and cafes, as well as a dog-friendly beach. Explore the beach’s many rock pools — you might come across an ancient fossil if you’re lucky.

Church of St Mary

This 12th-century parish church, situated high upon a cliff overlooking the mouth of the River Esk, is interesting enough, but it’s the stairs up to its graveyard that are the must-visit. They’re the 199 steps made famous at the denouement of Dracula: the vampire himself ran up them in the shape of a black dog.