Whitby: A Seaside Town of History, Legends & Dracula

Perched on the rugged coast of North Yorkshire, Whitby is a town rich in history, folklore, and stunning seaside views. Whether you’re drawn by its connection to Captain James Cook, its eerie ties to Dracula, or simply the charm of its winding backstreets and harbor, Whitby is a place that leaves an impression.

For Australians, Whitby holds special significance—it was from here that Captain James Cook set sail on his First Voyage, the very journey that led to his discovery of the land he would name New South Wales. A memorial to Cook stands proudly on the sea front, a fitting tribute to the man who charted much of the Pacific, forever linking this quaint English town with Australian history.

Whitby is also famous for its role in gothic literature. Bram Stoker’s Dracula was inspired by the dramatic ruins of Whitby Abbey, which looms over the town from its clifftop perch. To follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous vampire, visitors climb the 199 steps from the harbor up to St Mary’s Church before reaching the hauntingly beautiful abbey ruins. The Abbey, founded in 657 AD, is a spectacular sight, with its weathered stone arches framing breathtaking views of the North Sea.

One of the more unexpected moments of my Whitby visit? Spotting a random person wearing a South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby league jersey! This global phenomenon—where Rabbitohs fans turn up in the most unexpected places—took an even crazier turn when Russell Crowe himself retweeted my post about it. As a part-owner and lifelong fan of the Rabbitohs, Russell helped turn my Whitby sighting into a moment shared by rugby league fans worldwide.

Beyond its famous figures, Whitby is simply a joy to explore. The harbour is lively with fishing boats and seafood stalls, while narrow cobbled streets lead to cozy pubs like The Dolphin Hotel, where I enjoyed a classic British pub afternoon. The town’s unique blend of coastal beauty, history, and literary legend makes it one of the most fascinating places in England.

Whether you come for the ghosts of Dracula, the legacy of Captain Cook, or just a good old-fashioned seaside adventure, Whitby is a town that never disappoints.