A 3-Day Whitby Itinerary

The Perfect 3-Day Weekend in Whitby: A Local’s Itinerary

Whitby isn’t just a town; it’s a feeling. It’s the cry of the gulls, the scent of salt and vinegar in the air, the dramatic silhouette of the Abbey against a stormy sky, and the charm of cobbled lanes that whisper tales of sailors, saints, and vampires.

Planning a short break to capture all this magic can feel daunting. How do you fit it all in? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This 3-day Whitby itinerary is designed to give you the ultimate taste of this incredible coastal town. To make the most of your trip, you need the perfect basecamp. We’ve designed this guide around a stay at Number One Carlill, our stylish self-catering apartment on the desirable West Cliff, putting you right in the heart of the action.

Day 1: Arrival & West Cliff Wonders

Afternoon: Settle In Arrive in Whitby, drop your bags at Number One Carlill, and take a moment to breathe in that fresh sea air. You’re home. Our modern, comfortable apartment has everything you need to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Late Afternoon: A Walk Among Legends The best part about staying on the West Cliff? You’re just steps away from one of Whitby’s most iconic views. Take a gentle stroll along the cliff path as the afternoon sun begins to dip. This is the perfect time for that classic holiday photo at the Whalebone Arch, with the harbour and Abbey creating a breathtaking backdrop. In the crisp autumn air, the golden hour light here is simply magical.

Evening: The Main Event Your first night in Whitby calls for a rite of passage: world-class fish and chips. You’re spoiled for choice with famous spots like Trenchers or The Magpie Café just a short walk away. Local Tip: For a truly memorable experience, grab a takeaway and find a bench on the pier. There’s nothing better than eating hot, crispy fish and chips while watching the last of the boats come into the harbour.

Day 2: History, Harbour & Hauntings

Morning: Conquer the 199 Steps After a refreshing coffee at the apartment, it’s time to explore the other side of the River Esk. Cross the historic swing bridge and dive into the old town. Your mission: climb the legendary 199 steps up to St. Mary’s Church and the magnificent, haunting ruins of Whitby Abbey. As you ascend, pause to catch your breath and admire the incredible views. At the top, explore the gothic grandeur that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula and soak in centuries of history.

Lunchtime: A Proper Pub Lunch You’ve earned it! Head back down into the bustling, cobbled lanes of Church Street. This is the perfect time to find a cosy, traditional pub for a well-deserved lunch. Seek out a spot like The Duke of York at the harbour’s edge for great food and even better views.

Afternoon: Treasures & Tides Spend the afternoon getting lost in the old town. Browse the unique independent shops, discover the fascinating history of Whitby Jet in the specialist jewellery stores, or head back to the harbour. For a different perspective of the town, consider a short boat trip out to sea—like the Endeavour Replica or a pirate-themed adventure for the kids.

Evening: Discover the Dark Side As dusk falls, Whitby’s spooky side comes to life. A guided ghost walk is an absolute must-do. Listen to tales of smugglers, shipwrecks, and spirits as you’re led through the town’s most atmospheric corners. It’s a fun, theatrical, and fascinating way to end your day. Local Tip: These tours are popular, especially around Halloween, so book your spot in advance!

Day 3: Coastal Views & A Fond Farewell

Morning: Beach Walk or Park Stroll? For your final morning, you have two wonderful options.

• The Active Choice: Check the tide times. If the tide is out, enjoy an invigorating walk along the golden sands of Whitby Beach, heading towards the picturesque village of Sandsend.
• The Relaxed Choice: Discover a hidden gem at Pannett Park. It’s a beautifully maintained park with a fantastic museum and art gallery, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling centre.

Late Morning: One Last Treat Before you head home, take one last stroll through the town. Pop into a local bakery like Botham’s of Whitby for some famous Lemon Buns or a slice of Yorkshire Brack to take with you. Head back to Number One Carlill for a final cup of tea as you pack your bags, filled with memories of a wonderful weekend.

Ready to start your adventure?

In just three days, you can climb to an ancient abbey, walk on golden sands, feast on incredible food, and uncover ghostly tales. This Whitby itinerary shows just how much is possible on a short break.

Your perfect weekend starts with the perfect place to stay, Number One Carlill !