Whitby Favorites

Favorite thing: Today, the Esk gives Whitby its charm. In the past, the river helped make Whitby an important regional port for the coal and iron ore that was mined in the North Yorkshire hills.

"Esk" is an old Celtic word that means "water". As rivers go, its not very long, only about 45 km (28 miles). But it's long enough to reach the sea!

2 more images

Favorite thing: It's a survivor! So pretty on a calm day.

Walking out to the end of the pier is something every visitor should attempt - if the weather cooperates! It gives you a sense of appreciation for the fisherfolk and commercial mariners who set sail from this isolated North Sea harbor.

Favorite thing: This view of the inner harbour of Whitby was taken from the cliffs on the east side. In the distance the road bridge can be seen and the fields beyond. We had crossed this road earlier on in the day on the way to Scarborough and there is a great view of Whitby from up there too. Lookiing from that bridge earlier I was looking forward to visiting Whitby already! (P.S. I really enjoyed Scarborough too and it was glad we could visit both in one day. A real taster of two lovely east coast resorts, each with their own charm - so many thanks to our guides Steeve and Susan :-))

Favorite thing: Walking down the west pier you have a nice views of the outer harbour and across to the east cliffs as you stroll along. Didn't realise that Whitby had a small town beach area - below those cliffs - until seen from this angle.

Fondest memory: Evidence of Whitby's fishing trade is all around you. This shot of fish/crab cages just seems to epitomise this lovely east coast fishing village to me - its what I term a "Simone shot". VT'er Sim1 has always impressed me with her photographs of simple yet effective details so this was my effort in this category :-)

Fondest memory: The ruins of Whitby Abbey standing proud on the east cliffs also attracts many visitors visitors The late afternon sun on one of its remaining portals was lovely. Another visit here and I would spend more time with my camera searching out some more interesting angles ;-)

Fondest memory: Although the replica ship "Endeavour was not in Whitby during our visit the Grand Turk was.
Construction of thes ship began in January 1997 and was launched from Marmaris, Turkkey, 12th August 1997. The ship was used in the first series of Hornblower - a British TV drama. Its quite a big ship and Steve and I spent several minutes trying to outdo each other on the perfect reflection shot. Well this was my best effort!

Fondest memory: Of course the harbour and the colourful boats in the late afternoon sun provide the perfect scenario for some favoured "Sandy reflection shots". More of these in the travelogue below but this one I think is my most memorable view of Whitby.

Fondest memory: Just strolling around the harbour ar Whitby in warm - yes warm summer weather! was lovely taking in the harbour views and seeing all the colourful boats in the harbour. This is a view of the inner harbour which is separated from the outer harbour with its piers by a swing bridge - where this pic was taken from.

Favorite thing: I will just mention that you can drive up to the Abbey if you do not want to climb all those steps. There are very large car parks on the cliff adjacent to the Abbey. It is a pay and display system in operation for parking. The minimum payment was £1.00 for 3 hours. There are also quite large grassy areas if you want to have a picnic.