Falling in Love with Whitby ENGLAND: A Personal Journey Along the Yorkshire Coast!
π Falling in Love with the Yorkshire Coast: A Personal Journey & Complete Guide π️
The Yorkshire Coast is a place where time slows down and beauty reveals itself in every winding alley, wave-kissed cliff, and cozy tearoom. For many travelers, it’s a destination that brings calm, wonder, and nostalgia—especially if you're seeing it through the eyes of someone who’s fallen deeply in love with its charm.
One of those people is Beth, a travel enthusiast whose first trip to the Yorkshire Coast as a teen sparked a lifelong passion for coastal adventures. In this heartfelt collaboration, she shares her story—of fish and chips on the beach, of 199 steps and cliffside views, and of discovering her love for travel.
But this isn’t just a memory—it’s your guide to experiencing it too. Let’s dive into Beth’s journey and discover everything you need to plan your own visit to the magical Yorkshire coastline.
π A First Trip That Changed Everything:
Beth first visited the Yorkshire Coast with her family as a teenager. Her parents had spoken about their own love for the area—especially Whitby—with so much warmth that Beth’s curiosity was instantly piqued.
“The drive was long but beautiful. Taking the scenic route along the rugged cliff tops made for some stunning views. As we approached Whitby from the top of the moors, I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was!” – Beth
From that moment, her love for the region grew. Wandering through Whitby’s charming streets, shopping in independent stores filled with Whitby jet and handmade clothes, and climbing the famous 199 steps to the ancient Whitby Abbey—all of it left a mark.
π Must-Visit Places Along the Yorkshire Coast:
Inspired by Beth’s story, here are the top destinations to explore along this beautiful stretch of England’s northeastern coastline:
π° Whitby
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Famous for: Whitby Abbey, Dracula legend, fish & chips, quirky shops.
π‘ Quick Facts About Whitby Abbey:
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Founded in 657 AD by St. Hilda, an influential Anglo-Saxon abbess
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Once a powerful religious center during the medieval era
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Partially destroyed during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century
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Now managed by English Heritage, open for visitors year-round
Climbing the 199 steps to reach the Abbey is part of the adventure — and the view from the top is simply unforgettable. From here, you can gaze out at the endless sea, the town below, and the wild beauty of the Yorkshire coast.
π« Entry Fee: £11 for adults, £6.60 for children (as of 2025)
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Beth’s highlight: Climbing the 199 steps and enjoying fish & chips at sunset.
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Google Maps: Whitby Location
πΏ Robin Hood’s Bay
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A historic fishing village with narrow cobbled streets, red-roofed cottages, and fossil-hunting beaches.
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Great for romantic walks, sea views, and a step back in time.
⛵ Staithes
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Another picture-perfect fishing village with artists' studios, a tiny beach, and spectacular cliff walks.
π Sandsend
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A quieter beach destination just west of Whitby, great for families and beachcombing.
πΈ Most Instagrammable Spots:
If you're into photography or just want great memories for your feed, don’t miss these photo-worthy places:
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π Whitby Abbey at sunrise or sunset – hauntingly beautiful ruins against the sky.
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π 199 Steps – both climbing up and looking back down for the perfect frame.
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π Robin Hood’s Bay streets – narrow lanes with sea views peeking through.
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π Beachside sunset – especially with a cone of fish & chips like Beth did!
π§ Planning Your Trip: Tips & Practical Info:
π Best Time to Visit
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Spring (April–June) and late summer (September) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Autumn is underrated, with golden moorland scenery and cozy vibes.
π How to Get There
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By Car: Scenic drives through the North York Moors.
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By Train: Trains run to Whitby via Middlesbrough or you can stop at Scarborough and take local buses.
π¨ Where to Stay
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Budget: YHA Whitby – next to the Abbey!
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Mid-range: The White Horse & Griffin (historic inn).
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Luxury: Raithwaite Sandsend – spa resort with gardens.
π️ What to Do: Beth’s Personal Picks:
π️ Explore Nature
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Walk the Cleveland Way National Trail for epic cliff-top views.
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Try beachcombing or fossil hunting at Saltwick Bay.
π️ Shop Local
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Visit independent shops selling Whitby jet jewelry, handcrafted clothing, and antique books.
π½️ Eat Like a Local
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Beth’s top tip: “Fish and chips on the beach at sunset. Nothing beats it.”
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Also try:
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The Magpie CafΓ© (legendary fish & chips)
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Botham’s of Whitby (bakery with Victorian roots)
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Fortune’s Kippers (family-run smokehouse since 1872)
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✨ Hidden Gems Beth Would Love:
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Falling Foss Waterfall – a secret forest cafΓ© and waterfall just outside Whitby.
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The Walled Garden at Ravenscar – tranquil and lesser-known.
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Boggle Hole – near Robin Hood’s Bay, this hidden cove is great for families and fossils.
πΌ Beth’s Travel Tips You Should Steal:
Beth swears by these simple but game-changing travel tips:
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Do your research – Create a rough itinerary to avoid wasting time.
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Pre-book popular attractions – Especially in peak seasons.
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Packing Lists Matter – Break down into clothes, electronics, personal care, etc.
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Bring Ziplock Bags – Perfect for wet swimsuits, sandy socks, or leaky bottles!
“I always bring a few sandwich bags. From dusty underwear to leaky bottles, you never know when you might need one!” – Beth
❤️ How Travel Changed Beth Forever:
That trip to the Yorkshire Coast didn’t just become a happy memory—it sparked a passion. A love for the sea, for stories hidden in ruins, and for discovering new places. Whitby, and that moment with warm fish and chips at sunset, staring out into the sea, made Beth feel truly alive.
“Ever since, my love for travel has blossomed. The beach has, and always will be, my happy place.”
This is what travel is about. Not just seeing places, but feeling something that stays with you long after you return home.
π Explore More:
π Thank You, Beth!
A massive thank you to Beth for sharing her beautiful travel memories and personal tips with us. Your story made this guide what it is—heartfelt, inspiring, and truly helpful for others planning their trip to the Yorkshire Coast.
Want more hidden gems, personal travel stories, and inspiring coastal getaways?
π Follow Beth on Instagram: @beths_ventures
Her feed is full of dreamy landscapes, coastal walks, and honest glimpses into her journeys across the UK and beyond.
πΈ Pictures by Beth – Capturing the Yorkshire Coast Through Her Lens
This blog wouldn’t be complete without the beautiful visuals shared by Beth, whose eye for detail brings the essence of the Yorkshire Coast to life. From scenic cliffside drives to cozy seaside towns like Whitby, her photos perfectly reflect the magic of the journey.
If you loved Beth’s journey, let us know in the comments—and don’t forget to share this with a fellow traveler who could use some inspiration. ππ¬
HAPPY TRAVEL
PLANMYROAD!












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