Nestled near Peak District National Park, this charming Derbyshire village is bursting with character and offers the perfect pit stop after a day of hiking around Mam Tor
A stunning hill ‘dominates the horizon’ as you enter the village(Image: Getty Images)
Tucked away near the Peak District National Park, this picturesque rural village provides an ideal stopping point for ramblers exploring Derbyshire, with numerous welcoming pubs just a short stroll away.
Located next to the renowned Mam Tor, a 517-metre peak within the national park, Castleton ranks among the most spectacularly positioned villages in the region. The settlement is encircled by breathtaking vistas of limestone and gritstone escarpments, which regularly draw visitors from cities including Sheffield and Manchester.
Numerous visitors pause in the village either before or following a day’s trek up the hill, where a stone-paved footpath guides walkers along a circular route spanning roughly three miles. The moderately challenging ramble typically requires up to two hours – an expedition well worth rewarding with a refreshing beverage afterwards.
One recent rambler shared on TripAdvisor: “I finally decided to pay Mam Tor a visit to walk up to rather than just driving past it. It’s so dominating on the horizon as you drive through Castleton. Now, you can walk up to it from a variety of paths. The tourist path from the official Mam Tor car park is a popular one; however, you pay for car parking there, and it usually gets busy.”
At its core sits a thoroughly English village, packed with pubs, tearooms, bakeries and shops, ideal for leisurely browsing. Highly-rated drinking establishments in the village include The George, Ye Olde Nags Head, 1530 The Restaurant and the Bulls Head. All within a stone’s throw of each other, these pubs provide the perfect haven after a hard day and maintain a cracking atmosphere throughout the year. Ye Olde Nags Head, believed to be the oldest in the area, has been serving pints since the 17th century. One satisfied punter left a review, stating: “The pub is lovely, warm and welcoming. The staff were very friendly. The building is old and tired in places, but it’s part of the character of the place.”
In addition to the beer selection, the village boasts a high number of cafes for its size, offering passers-by a cuppa and a sweet treat. Regardless of the weather, both locals and tourists pack the rooms for a hot beverage and their locally baked cakes, biscuits and other treats – delicious and totally Instagram-worthy.
Castleton is believed to be the only place on earth that possesses the precious Blue John stone, found within several of its hidden gem caverns. There are four caves in total, open for anyone to explore, including Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Mine. The most frequented is the Peak Cavern, nestled beneath Peveril Castle and amusingly dubbed ‘the devil’s arse’. Eager explorers flock to the site for tours lasting over an hour, detailing its history and showcasing the intricacies of the underground hidden gem.
I sat stock-still on a bench fashioned from a fallen silver birch, scanning the woods for a sudden movement or a flash of blue. Deer and kingfisher visit this secluded copse and its stream, and I hoped to spot at least one of them. There was a rustle in the undergrowth, but it was only a more familiar winter visitor: a cheery robin.
It was a chilly day for wildlife-watching, but that didn’t matter to me – I was inside a sizzling sauna, gazing out of a large picture window. In fact, I was soon sweating so much, I nipped out to the icy-cold shower to cool off. The next time I overheated, I braved a plunge in the cold-water tub.
Later, I couldn’t believe that I’d been merrily sitting in a cold bath in the woods. Only that morning, Storm Benjamin had swept through this corner of East Sussex. But, as Scandinavians and those in the Baltic countries have long known, bad weather is no reason to stay indoors. And it’s easy to embrace the elements if there’s a sauna on hand. Since lockdown, the UK has got the outdoor sauna bug too: according to the British Sauna Society, the number of “wild” saunas on beaches and in forests doubled from 104 in May 2024 to 213 in May 2025.
The design of this particular sauna, the Drying Shed, was influenced by traditional Japanese buildings, and resembles a little rust-coloured temple. It is fuelled by logs from sustainably managed local woodlands. A sauna session lasts three hours in total, including lighting the stove and an hour or so for the room to heat up, plus stoking the fire to maintain the temperature (an average of 85C, although it can be anywhere from 60-100C).
With its wood-fired hot tub, black cladding and timber panelling, Hill Cabin has a contemporary Scandi vibe. Photograph: Holly Farrier
It was easy enough to light the stove and keep it going, even though my main experience of fire-lighting is confined to barbecues and campfires. There are detailed instructions and plenty of tinder, kindling and seasoned logs. The key is time and patience – the temperature builds steadily, so it’s best not to overload the stove with too much wood too quickly. Equally, it’s better to wait until you feel too hot before popping outside, rather than opening the door and letting all the heat out. The sauna can be booked by groups of up to four people, from 10am-1pm or 1pm-4pm, Tuesday to Sunday.
I shared the ritual with my boyfriend, who is a sauna sceptic. I expected him to get bored after five minutes and leave me to it, but we both stayed for the duration, going in and out several times. It was almost sauna by stealth – he was captivated by the view, only belatedly noticing that alternating between extremes of hot and cold makes you feel bracingly alive. He did stick to the shower, though, rather than the bath, no matter how I much I rhapsodised about the benefits of cold-water immersion. Maybe my chattering teeth put him off!
When the sauna was over, we walked the five minutes to Hill Cabin, our home for the night. This simple former farm building has been given a contemporary update with black cladding. The open-plan kitchen/living space and bedroom have a Scandi vibe, with lime-washed wooden floors, timber panelling and vintage furniture, made cosy with lots of rugs, floor cushions and throws, a log-burner and scented tea lights. The outdoor patio has a wood-fired hot tub, fire pit and a shelter with a table and chairs.
Bedroom at Hill Cabin. Photograph: Holly Farrier
The cabin is gorgeous, but as with the sauna, the view steals the show. As the name suggests, Hill Cabin is perched on a rise with a valley unfolding below. A few friendly sheep, two horses and Mavis the donkey enliven the foreground; rolling fields, russet-coloured trees and a far-off village form the dreamy backdrop. We soaked up the scene from the comfort of the hot tub, our faces pink from the cold but our bodies toasty warm.
Hill Cabin is one of two cabins available to rent on Great Park Farm, a 10-hectare family farm in Catsfield, near Battle. Cabin X is in a similar style, though tucked away in the woods. But farmer’s son Will Gowland, who grew up here, has grander plans. He is an architect – he and his practice, Built Works, designed and made the Drying Shed and are now building two more cabins, due to open in spring, with another three at the design stage.
Will gave us a tour of the two half-built properties and they are on a different scale altogether. Yogi’s Cabin will have its own natural swimming pond, a wraparound deck and a yoga studio. Bather’s Cabin will include what is essentially an indoor-outdoor private spa, spreading on to the roof terrace. They will be followed by Musician’s, Chef’s and Explorer’s cabins. All will be handmade from sustainable materials, from local larch to British hemp for insulation.
“It costs five times as much to build this way, but we want to be genuinely sustainable,” Will said. He is a certified Passive House designer, and Built Works is a member of the Association for Environment Conscious Building.While the existing two cabins are a real treat, the five new ones will offer five-star luxury, with prices to match.
There is a long-running farm shop, cafe and plant nursery on site. We went in for carrot cake and left loaded with chutney, bedding plants and the orange and cinnamon tealights that made our cabin smell so divine. Guests can stock up on ingredients to cook dinner in their cabin, or pop to the village pub, but we decided to brave the 45-minute walk to Battle. It was pitch-black and drizzly, but there is a footpath almost all the way, and Will lent us much-needed head torches.
The writer emerges from the cold water forest tub
We emerged at the imposing gatehouse of Battle Abbey, the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings, and warmed up over dinner at Chequers, a 15th-century coaching inn. As well as burgers, steaks and pies, the pub serves some imaginative veggie dishes – I had the lion’s mane mushrooms with bean cassoulet and crispy leeks (£16). We didn’t even mind splashing across streams on the walk home, knowing there was a fire to light when we got back, and a stock of books, games (and wine).
Ours was a flying visit, but if we’d had more time, we could have headed to Hastings, a 25-minute drive away. As well as the old town, fishing quarter and art galleries, its attractions include the Samphire Sauna on the revamped pier.
As it was, we ended our stay where we had started: by a huge picture window, gazing at the view. This time we were sitting at the dining table in the cabin, eating a breakfast of homemade granola and freshly baked bread. The morning looked bright, crisp and cold – and just as enticing as any summer’s day.
The trip was provided by Architects Holiday; cabins sleep two, from £242 a night B&B (or three nights for the price of two until the end of March). A three-hour sauna session at the Drying Shed is £45 for up to four people; there are discounts and extended opening hours (7am-10pm, seven days a week) for cabin guests
With Christmas cinemas popping up all over the country, The Mirror ventured out to try one that promised some of the most epic views in London – and it didn’t disappoint
JOAI Rooftop Christmas films take place on the 15th floor, overlooking the London skyline(Image: Supplied)
I’ve watched Love Actually at least 1,000 times now, but this was a viewing with a difference. Never before have I watched it on the rooftop of a stunning hotel overlooking the imposing beauty of Battersea Power Station.
The iconic buildings lovingly brought back to life in October 2022 and is now a vibrant shopping and entertainment area with the existing architecture adapted to accommodate restaurants, stores and luxury flats.
At night, it is beautifully lit up with its historic chimneys serving as a focal point along the river. And it was that view that I was treated to when I arrived for the JOIA Rooftop Movie Pop-Up.
Situated in floor 14 of the art’otel Battersea Power Station, JOIA restaurant is the first London restaurant by award-winning two Michelin-starred Portuguese chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, and takes its inspiration from his travels on the Portuguese Iberian Peninsula.
On the floor above sits the rooftop with its famed swimming pool and breathtaking views of London’s Grade II listed Battersea Power Station. We enjoyed a three-course set menu in the restaurant first, with a delicious sharing starter of sourdough bread, beef pica pau and grilled leeks.
Main course was a choice between fillet of beef, wild Scottish turbot and roasted cauliflower. My friend and I shared the steak and fish, both were melt-in-the-mouth delicious.
Sides included patatas bravas and greens while dessert was a sharing portion of torrija – a moist, caramelised brioche with almonds, raspberries, all eaten while looking out across the London skyline.
Fortified by a couple of rose wines, it was up to the roof where we were prepared to freeze in the 0 degree temperatures. But we were in for a more than pleasant surprise. Each seat came with its own cosy blanket and faux fur hot water bottle. Hand warmers were provided alongside free popcorn. That, combined with the mulled wine, made for a toasty evening watching Love, Actually under the stars.
The rooftop cinema runs until December 21 with packages starting from £80pp for chairs or £90pp for a sofa to seat two. Different films will be shown including The Holiday, The Santa Clause, It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone, Elf and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.
For more information, visit https://www.joiabattersea.co.uk/whats-on/joia-rooftop-christmas-movies/
I’m A Celebrity stars Shona McGarty and Aitch were ‘very cosy’ in camp according to two stars of the show, with fans also convinced a jungle romance will happen
22:51, 26 Nov 2025Updated 22:51, 26 Nov 2025
Two I’m a Celebrity stars have had their say on Shona McGarty and Aitch’s bond(Image: ITV)
The show’s hosts Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly made a comment about them being “cosy” live on air just as they went to speak to the pair, and the rest of the group. On the edge of camp, the pair reacted to playful scenes between the EastEnders actress and the rapper.
As Kelly Brook suggested a pillow fight in camp, the pair were seen rolling around and falling to the floor. Shona was leaning on Aitch as the pair laughed, with fans suggesting they were “looking into each other’s eyes”.
Aitch commented on his time in camp being “lovely” with him “seeing the beauty of it”, with a smirk on his face – just as the camera panned to him staring at Shona. Fans were sure he was talking about his time with Shona, and Ant and Dec soon made their thoughts known.
Speaking live on air at the end of Wednesday’s episode, Dec said to Ant: “Getting very cosy aren’t they,” before smirking. Ant then said back: “Well some of them are…”
Viewers also had their say after the playful scenes. Some fans even suggested Aitch deliberatly lost to be in the loser camp with Shona, with many viewers “rooting” for their possible romance.
One fan said: “Aitch and Shona ready for that christmas love.” Another agreed: “Are we witnessing the chemistry between Aitch and Shona? You can feel the love.”
A third fan said: “Aitch and Shona are so cute and I am SO HERE FOR IT,” as a fourth added: “I know Aitch lost on purpose to be with Shona I just can’t prove it.” A fifth said: “I’m so rooting for Aitch and Shona.”
Another fan commented: “Aitch and Shona staring into each others eyes.” It’s not just fans who seem to be rooting for the pair though, with friends and family also commenting.
Aitch’s close pal and manager said the pair could make a “nice couple”. Shona’s sister Camila had her say too, and said: “He is a nice guy… I would definitely have him around for Christmas.”
Shona broke up with her musician fiancé, David Bracken, earlier this year. Insiders say the split is amicable, and he recently wished her all the best for the jungle on social media.
Romance talk started after Aitch spoke about Shona to Ginge in the camp. He said: “I’ve got a bit of a soft spot for Shona, me.” Ginge replied: “I think she’s really nice, if that’s what you mean, yeah?” Keeping things low-key, Aitch commented: “Yeah, that’s what I mean…”
Sometimes all you want is the opportunity to slow down life and enjoy a refreshing break somewhere quiet and idyllic – this location is the perfect way to do just that
08:00, 18 Nov 2025Updated 08:26, 18 Nov 2025
This is how glorious sunsets should look every time [stock](Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If you’re dreaming of an escape where rolling green hills meet charming cobbled streets and you’re only ever a heartbeat away from a good cup of tea then one town should be right at the top of your list.
This little gem in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales has become something of a star in its own right, thanks to its role as the fictional Darrowby in Channel 5’s ‘All Creatures Great and Small‘. Fans of the show will instantly spot the familiar streets and stone-fronted shops. But even if you’ve never seen an episode, then the real-life town of Grassington has enough to win anyone over. For families, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and wholesome days out. Start in the bustling village square, where independent shops and cosy cafes, including the Cake House, invite you to linger for a while.
And then there are the proper North Yorkshire pubs where the welcome is warm, the portions are generous and the ale flows freely. Grassington’s inns are the beating heart of the village, from the Gamekeeper’s Inn to Grassington House, offering everything from roaring fires and Sunday roasts to locally brewed pints and family-friendly dining.
Whether you’re settling into a snug corner after a long walk or enjoying a meal in a lively bar where locals swap stories across the tables, it’s the sort of place where time slows down. Many visitors swear the pubs alone are worth the trip, especially if you want an authentic taste of Dales hospitality.
One of the best things about Grassington is how quickly you can slip from village charm into full-blown countryside magic. The surrounding Dales are tailor-made for family walks, from gentle riverside rambles along the Wharfe to more adventurous routes up towards Linton Falls.
The falls themselves are just a short stroll from the village and offer a spectacular view, especially after a good rain. Kids love watching the water thunder over the rocks, and parents love that it’s one of those rare beauty spots that doesn’t require a three-hour trek to get to.
If your family has a soft spot for wildlife, then the Grass Wood Nature Reserve is a must. This ancient woodland is a haven for birds, wildflowers and even the occasional roe deer. The trails here are peaceful and atmospheric, perfect for a slower-paced wander where little explorers can hunt for bugs, spot woodland creatures and burn off some energy.
History lovers won’t be left out either. Head to the nearby Grassington Folk Museum, where the whole family can learn about rural life through the centuries. It’s surprisingly engaging for kids, with plenty of hands-on displays, and gives a real sense of the community spirit that still holds strong in the village today.
And of course, no visit would be complete without a nod to the popular ‘All Creatures Great and Small’. Fans can stroll the same streets James Herriot walks on screen, peek into shop fronts used for filming and soak up the quaint atmosphere that makes the series so beloved. Many visitors say it feels like stepping straight into the show (minus the odd unruly cow).
Whether you’re after cosy pubs, picture-perfect scenery or a family weekend that blends relaxation with just enough adventure, Grassington delivers in spades. It’s no wonder TV crews, walkers and families all fall a little bit in love with it and, after one trip, you probably will too.
The village of Merthyr Mawr, in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, is like stepping into a fairytale, with its thatched cottages, babbling brooks and stunning historical sites
08:00, 14 Nov 2025Updated 08:26, 14 Nov 2025
The Church of St Teilo(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
Tucked away in the lush, rolling hills of Vale of Glamorgan, the quaint village of Merthyr Mawr is a real-life fairytale come to life. With its charming thatched cottages and awe-inspiring historical sites, it’s more akin to a Cotswolds hamlet than a location just a quick ten-minute drive from Bridgend.
Despite being home to a mere 300 residents and lacking a high street, this picture-perfect Welsh village has made its mark on the silver screen. Its nearby dunes were used as a filming location for the 1962 classic Lawrence of Arabia, according to Discover Britain. A gently babbling brook meanders through ancient woodland, while Shire horses graze in the verdant fields. And the best part? This hidden treasure is often devoid of crowds. The village’s name, Merthyr Mawr, originates from Merthyr Mymor or Myfor, a Welsh Saint believed to have met his end on these very grounds, reports Wales Online.
Archaeological research over the years has traced the village’s roots back thousands of years, even identifying it as a hub of prehistoric activity. Artefacts ranging from Stone Age flints to Bronze Age burial sites have been discovered here. Beyond the dark ages, visitors can marvel at Roman roads that sit alongside Victorian stonework. At the heart of the village lies the Merthyr Mawr Estate. This 19th-century mansion was constructed by landed gentry Sir John Nicholl.
To this day, it remains a private residence with the majority of the village and surrounding property owned by those who live there. This means that properties in the village are highly sought after as they seldom come up for sale and have often been in the family for generations. The best way to explore Merthyr Mawr is on foot – to fully appreciate the unique views and tranquil atmosphere. You can stroll past the village greens and the tennis club towards St Teilo’s Church.
Its graveyard is awash with vibrant flowers in the spring and summer months. During the day, sunlight streams through the intricate stained-glass windows. Believed to be built on the site of a structure that predates the 19th century, the church also houses a small collection of inscribed medieval stones from the 5th century. A ten-minute walk from the church will lead you to Ogmore Castle.
Nestled next to the Ewenny River, you can access its robust stone walls by stepping across ancient stepping stones used by the castle’s princess, who, according to legend, used them to meet her lover on a neighbouring bank of land. This 12th-century keep once protected the Norman-held lands of Glamorgan. Further along, you’ll find Candleston Castle, a later 14th-century manor house, fortified for the de Cantaloupe family.
If you’ve had your fill of culture and fancy some fun, there’s an outdoor sauna tucked away in the woods where you can unwind. This sauna is a traditional Lithuanian spot, meaning it uses a wood-fire to heat its hot tubs. Venture along the coastal path to the Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve and you’ll discover something truly unique – a ‘Sahara Desert’ that featured in Lawrence of Arabia. After your enchanting adventure, if you’re feeling peckish, make your way to Ogmore village. Here, Cobbles Kitchen serves up a mouth-watering roast. To round off your day, pop into the Pelican Inn for a cosy pint by the fireside.
Halloween is over and Bonfire Night has been and gone so there’s only one thing helping us all through the cold, dark winter – and that’s the thought of Christmas.
Sparkling lights, cosy pubs, nights out with friends and family – it’s all to look forward to in the run up to the festive season.
However, I have to admit the thought of being packed into hot and sweaty pubs with hundreds of other people, all equally as full of Christmas cheer is starting to lose its shine somewhat.
And with that in mind, I’ve found the perfect festive fun for an alternative night out filled with all the cosy and candlelit feels which will also give you a rare moment of tranquility and peace amongst all the present buying and Christmas menu planning.
Skuna Boats, based in Canary Wharf in east London and Bristol, offers a night out with a difference. Instead of fighting your way to the bar while Last Christmas blares out for the 895th time, you could be floating serenely around the docks in Canary Wharf in your own, private igloo.
Lit by (fake) candlelit – let’s be sensible people we don’t want any fire hazards here – and decorated like an alpine dream, each Skuna igloo boat comes with the option of either cheese or chocolate fondue with you able to pre-order your drinks from the bar.
We gave it a whirl and it was a cosy lovers dream. The experience starts with a leisurely meal – we opted for cheese fondue, which came with delicious garlic potatoes, loads of bread, crudites and meats and was absolutely fantastic. One of the best things is the igloos all come with their own smart speaker so you can pick your own playlist – no tired and old festive tunes for us.
Then, your own personal driver takes you around Canary Wharf while you chat, drink, finish off the delicious fondue and gaze in amazement at the glittering lights of the sky scrappers as you calmly float past.
Once docked back at the pontoon, you’re given more time to happily soak in your surroundings while chatting, drinking and giggling with your friends in candle-lit gorgeousness. It really felt like something out of a fairy tale and when we all hopped out of our igloo at the end of the experience, we felt refreshed, cosy and ready for the festive season.
If you’re looking for a festive night out with a difference, run don’t walk to book your igloo boat now.
Norwich is a historic city that offers a quieter, yet equally enchanting, winter escape compared to the likes of Bath, London, Oxford, Edinburgh or York
16:20, 04 Nov 2025Updated 16:21, 04 Nov 2025
Norwich’s unique appeal as the only British city located within a national park(Image: Getty)
As the festive season approaches, many Brits’ thoughts turn to staycations in bustling cities like Bath, London, Oxford, Edinburgh or York, all renowned for their Christmas markets and historic charm. But for those seeking a quieter, cosier winter retreat, Norwich is a hidden gem.
The city was even listed among the top UK staycation destinations for 2024 by StressFreeCarRental.com. John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com, said: “As the nights draw in and the temperatures plummet, it’s inevitable that many of us start to feel a little down at this time of year.”
He highlighted Norwich’s unique appeal as the only British city located within a national park.
John explained: “The picturesque Broads National Park has miles and miles of footpaths for visitors to truly feel at one with nature and help to keep active. Norwich is a great city to connect with the outdoors and practice ecotherapy.”
Norwich Cathedral, a medieval architectural marvel, continues to be the city’s main attraction, drawing in countless tourists, reports the Express.
One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “Norwich Cathedral is a beautiful building, which we had said we would visit. Over the years, we have visited many of the major cathedrals in the UK and some in Europe, but we have never been to our local cathedral. After 75 plus years, that time had come. We had coffee in the very modern cafe, and overall, the afternoon was most enjoyable.”
Another added: “This a brilliant place to go whatever the occasion even if your not religious. Light a candle for a lost loved one, sing a hymn, look at the amazing architecture or pray. There are also family events in the summer holidays to occupy the kids.”
Throughout the festive period, the cathedral hosts Christmas services, concerts and a stunning light display, whilst Norwich’s own ‘Winter Wonderland’ is situated conveniently nearby.
Following a day of sightseeing, popping into one of Norwich’s numerous historic pubs, complete with a crackling fire, provides the ideal way to get cosy.
Whilst it might not feature one enormous Christmas market, Norwich comes alive with a selection of smaller, more personal festive gatherings that showcase local creativity.
Norwich is packed with independent retailers and well-known high street names, providing a range of distinctive gifts, keepsakes, and much more.
The city features a bustling marketplace, multiple Christmas markets, the Norwich Lanes, and thriving shopping centres.
There are also late-night shopping Thursdays in the lead-up to Christmas. The city is buzzing with festive spirit, boasting stunning Christmas lights and seasonal events at historic venues like The Assembly House and The Maids Head Hotel.
Elsewhere in Norwich, there’s a wealth of charming walks and cosy pubs to discover.
Norwich Lanes glisten with festive decorations during the winter months, perfect for a tranquil wander. Embark on a riverside walk from Norwich Rail Station along the River Wensum.
You’ll stumble upon historical treasures including Pull’s Ferry, Cow Tower, and Norwich Cathedral, with chances to nip into traditional pubs like the Compleat Angler and The Red Lion for a drink.
For a walk steeped in history, take on the city’s circular route, which follows the banks of the River Wensum and crosses several ancient bridges.
You’ll spot medieval city walls, the towering castle, and various churches, while Norwich’s oldest pub, The Adam and Eve, conveniently sits along the route.
Perhaps best-known for its association with Dracula and an annual goth festival, this cosy seaside town has been named the UK’s best value seaside town, and there’s plenty to do during the colder months
Whitby is a cosy seaside town with a rich history(Image: Getty Images)
Winter can be an excellent time to explore the UK’s seaside towns. There’s nothing quite like windswept coastal walks, cosy pubs, and uncrowded destinations for the perfect cold weather weekend.
In a recent study by Which? one seaside town in Yorkshire was crowned the UK’s best value seaside break. Whitby, which sits on a long stretch of cliffs where the River Esk flows to the North Sea, scored five stars for food and accommodation in a survey of Which? readers, as well as four stars for tourist attractions and its seafront area.
Whitby has long been a popular destination for those with a fascination with the dark and macabre. Bram Stoker researched some of the novel Dracula while on holiday in Whitby. In the book it’s where the creature first arrives in England, climbing the steps to the graveyard of St Mary’s Church, which is next to the ruins of Whitby Abbey. Needless to say, this has become a popular tourist attraction for fans of gothic literature. Visitors can climb the 199 steps from the harbour, just as Dracula did in the novel, and enjoy views across Whitby and out to sea.
The abbey, which dates back to the 7th century, was also home to one of the first English poets, Cædmon, and today it’s an English Heritage site. You can wander around the well-preserved ruins before visiting the museum, which has treasures such as medieval manuscripts and even a rare signed copy of Dracula.
One of the town’s biggest events is Whitby Goth Weekend, a twice-yearly event that tends to take place once in spring and once at Halloween. There’s a huge number of events going on, from live music to alternative markets, and you’ll spot hundreds of attendees decked out in gothic gear.
Explorer Captain James Cook also had a connection to Whitby, moving to the port town in the 18th-century and beginning his life as a merchant navy apprentice. At the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, you can learn about his life and his famous voyages to the South Pacific, and the exhibits are set in his former home, where he lived when not at sea.
Whitby Beach has a traditional seaside vibe, with colourful beach huts along the promenade, waterfront tearooms, and fish and chip shops. Along the River Esk you’ll find amusements, family-friendly attractions such as the Whitby Marine Discovery Centre, and shops selling souvenirs and sticks of rock. There are also several places offering a variety of boat trips, ranging from sunset cruises to whale-watching tours.
There’s a wide range of accommodation to choose from in and around Whitby, depending on whether you want a rural retreat or want to stay close to the sea. The White House Inn sits on the edge of North Yorkshire Moors National Park, while also offering sea views across the coast. This cosy inn features a pub with a changing seasonal menu and 11 rooms, with a standard room stay in November costing from £90 per night.
In the harbour area, The Marine Hotel is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy the town’s seaside charms. It features a seafood restaurant serving up Whitby lobster, crab, and other freshly caught delicacies, as well as seven cosy rooms with rates starting from £165 per night in November. You can even pick a room with a balcony to enjoy the fresh sea air and spectacular views.
And for the perfect way to round off a day at the seaside, grab fish and chips at The Fisherman’s Wife on the beachfront. You can either dine in, with the restaurant offering sea views, or brave the cold and enjoy chips from the takeaway while sitting on the beach.
