Living in Whitby, Yorkshire
Are you considering living in Whitby? This coastal gem in Yorkshire has much to offer.
Whitby is a picturesque seaside town located on the north east coast of England, in the county of North Yorkshire.
Situated within the stunning scenic North York Moors National Park, Whitby is known for its fishing industry, tourism, and its beautiful Whitby jet jewellery made from local gemstones.
The town features a range of amenities, good schools, a variety of dining choices, and unique, independent stores. Whitby’s lively arts scene and yearly events, including the popular Goth Weekend, further enhance its cultural appeal.
The town has a rich history, including its association with the famous explorer Captain James Cook and its inspiration for Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula.”
Whitby is also known for its beautiful beaches, the ruins of Whitby Abbey, and its charming harbour.
With its wonderful seaside and countryside setting, living in Whitby is a perfect choice for those looking for a vibrant yet peaceful living environment.
What types of property are in Whitby, Yorkshire?
Whitby offers a diverse range of properties for sale, catering to different preferences and needs, from spacious period family homes and cosy cottages to clifftop terraces.
In the Old Town, you can find stone cottages, some of which date back to the 16th century, as well as Arts and Crafts style properties.
You can find substantial family homes with large gardens, contemporary new build properties – ideal for those looking for a turnkey home – as well as penthouse flats overlooking the sea.
The wide range of properties available reflect both Whitby’s coastal charm and its history, making it a desirable location for residential living.
Schools in Whitby
Whitby has six primary schools and academies, three secondary schools, and two excellent private schools in the surrounding area.
Further education opportunities are available at several universities in the region, including the University of York.
Primary Schools in and around Whitby
- Airy Hill Primary School, a multi-academy trust for students aged 2 – 11;
- Danby Church of England Primary School, a voluntary aided co-education village school for children aged 4 – 11;
- West Cliff Primary School, a mixed school for students aged 4 – 11;
Secondary Schools in and around Whitby
- Caedmon College in Normanby, a co-educational secondary school for students aged 11-16;
- Caedmon College in Scoresbury, a mixed sixth form for those aged 16-18;
- Eskdale School, a co-educational community school for students aged 11-16;
Independent Schools near Whitby
- Fyling Hall School, a co-educational day and boarding school for students aged 4 – 18, about 15 minutes away from Whitby by car;
- Yarm School is one of the county’s leading co-educational independent schools for students aged 3 to 18 and is approximately 40 miles to the west of Whitby.
Green spaces in Whitby
Whitby has the best of what nature can offer – beautiful coastal living and the stunning open spaces of the North York Moors National Park. Living in Whitby, you are never far from both indoor and outdoor activities, such as:
Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey, perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the North Sea is a site steeped in history and intrigue.
Whitby Abbey’s towering ruins also inspired Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula,” making it a popular site not only for those interested in history but also for fans of literature.
You can explore the Abbey’s gardens and enjoy a picnic at one of the designated spots, all while enjoying breathtaking views. Dogs on a lead are welcome.
North York Moors National Park
The North York Moors National Park covers an area of 554 square miles (approximately 1,430 km) and is simply stunning, renowned for its scenic moorland, historical sites, and vibrant coastal areas.
There is lots to do such as walking and hiking along one of the park’s numerous trails. They are suitable for all abilities, from the famous 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail to shorter scenic walks like the Esk Valley Walk.
With a variety of terrain, the area is great for cycling. The Moor to Sea Cycle Network offers over 150 miles of routes connecting key locations like Scarborough and Whitby.
You can also enjoy horseback riding and trail running, as well as water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, surfing and swimming.
For those seeking a slower pace, you can stargaze – the park is designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve – or you can simply sit and watch the wildlife.
The park hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, catering to interests ranging from arts and culture to nature and outdoor sports.
Sneaton Forest
Sneaton Forest, located near Whitby, offers a picturesque setting with a blend of old and new woodland areas as well as the wonderful Falling Foss Waterfall.
Right on Whitby’s doorstep, Sneaten Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.
There are plenty of walking and hiking trails through both ancient broad-leaved woodlands and newer coniferous areas planted in the 1960s. These trails offer a chance to enjoy the tranquil environment and diverse flora.
There are also designated cycling paths suited for mountain biking, giving both novice and experienced bikers a chance to enjoy the scenic routes.
Plus, when it is time for refreshments, Sneaton Forest is equipped with picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a snack amidst the serene landscape.
You can also treat yourself to a cake or two at the Falling Foss Tea Garden – a seasonal open air café beside the waterfall.
Whitby, Yorkshire transport links
Whitby may be a small town that is slightly off the beaten track, but those living in Whitby still have great transport links to larger cities.
London by road is around five to six hours’ away, either via the A1, M1 or the M1 and M40.
Newcastle Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport (both serving domestic and international destinations) are just under a two-hour drive away.
The smaller Teeside International Airport (providing internal and short haul flights) is just over an hour away by road.
Whitby has its own railway station and connects you to all the major cities in the North including Manchester, Leeds, and York.
By rail to London, it typically takes around five hours, including changes at other railway hubs, such as Middlesborough, Newcastle, or Sunderland.
Places to eat, drink, and shop in Whitby
Whitby offers a rich and diverse variety of dining options, from classic fish and chips to gourmet Italian dishes and traditional pub grub.
A great example is the Magpie Café. Situated by the harbour, it serves seafood and a range of other dishes. Alongside two other culinary establishments in the area – Trencher’s and Hadley’s – it was listed among the best fish and chip shops in the UK.
There are also several cocktail bars, coffee shops and tea rooms.
Shopping wise, Whitby has lots of bustling, independent shops selling clothes, antiques, jewellery, and art. For example, the quaint pedestrianised Grape Lane is just off Church Street and has a coffee shop, barbers, a jet shop, and the Captain Cook’s Memorial Museum.
Or climb Flowergate, a hill leading up from New Quay Road in the centre of Whitby and browse its variety of interesting shops and cafes including clothing, vintage, antique, and gift shops.
Market Square has a weekly Farmers Market from April to October as well as a small traditional market throughout the year, where shoppers can find a variety of stalls including clothes, handcrafted silver jewellery, and bakery goods.
Gin lovers can also visit the Whitby Distillery for a gin experience or simply to buy some locally-made gin.
Why consider living in Whitby?
Living in Whitby offers the perfect blend of tranquil coastal and countryside living and is considered one of the best small towns in the UK to live in. The town boasts excellent amenities including good schools, great dining options, and lots of fun quirky shops.
With a variety of property types, from historic cottages to contemporary homes, and abundant green spaces, Whitby is an ideal place for those seeking a picturesque living environment by the sea.
If you are considering living in Whitby, then at Garrington Property Finders, we will be delighted to help! Please contact us today to find out more.
