Whitby is one of the most haunted towns in England, steeped in Dracula lore, eerie ruins, and ghostly legends. Whether you’re a dark tourist or just a Dracula fanatic, these are the top 10 spooky things to do and spooky spots to see in Whitby.
Famous for its maritime heritage and scenic beauty, Whitby has long been a popular destination for tourists, particularly dark tourists drawn to its connections with Bram Stoker’s Dracula and the iconic Whitby Goth Weekend.
With a history dating back to the Viking era, Whitby flourished in the medieval period and became a hub for Christianity. However, its darker past includes smuggling, piracy, and the 1660s plague, cementing its reputation for eerie events.
Whitby is most famously linked to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, after he visited the town in 1890. The ruins of Whitby Abbey, its spooky streets, and the tale of the Demeter ship have all contributed to the town’s association with supernatural legends and Gothic folklore. Because of this, the town is often referred to as Dracula’s Whitby!
Top 10 Spooky Things to Do in Whitby
Armed with a list of spooky spots to tick off my list, I travelled to Whitby for a solo trip in early February and quickly found that it’s rich in folklore, legends, and haunted locations: making it the perfect destination for dark tourists! Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 spooky things to do in Whitby.
Whitby Abbey – The Ruins That Inspired Dracula
Perched dramatically on the East Cliff overlooking Whitby, the haunting ruins of Whitby Abbey are visible from almost anywhere in town. These iconic remains famously inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and it’s easy to see why. The atmospheric ruins, especially at dusk or on a grey, rainy day, are steeped in folklore and legend.
Founded in 657 AD by King Oswiu of Northumbria, the original monastery at Whitby became one of the most important religious centres in the Anglo-Saxon world. Oswiu appointed St. Hilda as its first abbess, and under her guidance, the monastery flourished as a hub of learning and faith. The abbey flourished for centuries but eventually fell into ruin after its dissolution in 1539 under Henry VIII.
Fun fact: Whitby is a great spot for fossil hunting – but did you know that the ammonite fossils that are often found on Whitby’s shoreline are sometimes known as snakestones? Legend says that Whitby was once plagued by snakes. According to folklore, St. Hilda prayed for divine intervention, turning the serpents to stone before casting them over the cliffs.
The abbey has plenty of ghostly legends, with whispers of restless spirits lingering among the ruins. Some say St. Hilda still watches over the abbey, her figure glimpsed in the shadows of its windows. Others speak of a tragic nun whose forbidden love led to a terrifying fate, her tormented cries said to echo through the night.
Whitby Abbey helped inspire some of the most pivotal scenes and references in Dracula, such as when Count Dracula arrives in Whitby and when a black dog bounds up the 199 steps towards the abbey.
St. Mary’s Churchyard – Home to the Restless Dead
Settled on Whitby’s East Cliff, just a short walk from Whitby Abbey, St. Mary’s Churchyard is easily one of the most atmospheric and eerie spots in Whitby. With its weathered gravestones, many tilting from centuries of exposure to the harsh coastal winds, the churchyard has long been shrouded in ghostly legends. Locals say the spirits of sailors, smugglers, and plague victims still wander here.
Those seeking haunted Whitby experiences should keep an eye out for the famous legend of the Barguest Coach.
Legend says that if a sailor from Whitby dies on land, on the third night after their funeral, a ghostly black coach – pulled by headless horses – would ride through St. Mary’s Churchyard and pull up beside the grave. Skeletal mourners then climb out of the coach, circle the grave three times to summon the recently deceased and usher them into the coach. The Barguest Coach would then rattle down the church steps, along Henrietta Street and plunge into the sea!
You’ll find more links to Dracula here – this is where Bram Stoker imagined Lucy Westenra’s grave in Dracula, and found the name for Dracula’s first victim – Swales – on a tombstone. In fact, our ghost tour guide told us that Bram Stoker actually took 98 names from this graveyard – I imagine it would be interesting to try and find them all!
Most visitors trek up the 199 steps to reach the atmospheric churchyard and let me tell you, it is so worth it. The views across Whitby are amazing and if you visit on a particularly windswept day, there’s a certain charm that comes with exploring the graveyard and peering over the edge of the cliff.
What makes it just that more eerie is when you remember that in 2013, coastal erosion caused several graves to tumble into the sea, exposing remains and bones at the bottom of the cliff.
Whilst you’re here, make sure you take time to duck into St. Mary’s Church too. It’s a wonderful and welcoming historic church with lots to see inside (including all enclosed box pews used by local community groups and a saxon baby coffin).
And no, you can’t find Dracula’s Grave here. It doesn’t exist!
The 199 Steps – A Climb into Whitby’s Dark Past
Climbing the 199 Steps is one of Whitby’s most iconic and eerie experiences. These ancient steps lead from the town up to St. Mary’s Church and Whitby Abbey, offering breathtaking views of the town below.
And as someone who hates hills, I’m happy to confirm the climb isn’t that bad at all!
In Dracula, Count Dracula, in the form of a black dog, is said to bound up these very steps after arriving in Whitby. There’s also an old superstition that miscounting the steps can bring bad luck – unless you head back down and start again.
I miscounted 201 steps, but there was no way I was trekking back down just to recount… so I guess I’ll have to accept my fate!
As you make your way up, you might notice small benches along the path, perfect for a quick rest – but their chilling history is tied to Whitby’s darker past. If you want to uncover the full legend, check out my Spooky Whitby Itinerary!
Local folklore suggests that monks once carried coffins up the steps to the churchyard, and some say they still hear ghostly footsteps or feel an unexplained presence behind them. Whether you visit during the day or dare to climb at dusk, the journey up the 199 Steps has plenty of legends to discover.
Bram Stoker’s Bench – Where Dracula Was Born
In Whitby, there’s a special spot believed to be where Bram Stoker first began writing Dracula. The Bram Stoker Memorial Bench can be found on Khyber Pass, facing the Whitby Abbey ruins and the East Cliff across the river.
The bench was erected in 1980 by Scarborough Borough Council to mark the 68th anniversary of Stoker’s death. Though weathered by time, the bench still bears a plaque commemorating Bram Stoker, offering visitors a place to sit and take in the same view that once inspired him.
Wondering where to find Bram Stoker’s Bench? I’ve pinned the exact spot on the map below! There are a few benches in a row here – look for the one on the far right, a little more weathered than the others.
I found the spot to be really peaceful when I visited. Just as the sun was setting and the ruins stood out, Whitby Abbey Dracula inspiration is instantly clear as you take in the eerie remains overlooking the sea. Some people believe the view from this spot was what actually inspired the scene of Dracula’s arrival into Whitby.
Interested in more Dracula history? Just a short six-minute walk away on Royal Crescent, you’ll find another plaque marking the house where Stoker stayed – and likely penned parts of Dracula – between 1890 and 1896.
The Dracula Experience – A Spine-Chilling Walkthrough
If you’re a Dracula fan, The Dracula Experience Whitby is a must-visit kitschy attraction in Whitby. This eerie walkthrough brings Bram Stoker’s novel to life with a mix of live actors, special effects, and spine-chilling scenes that immerse you in Dracula’s dark world.
Set inside an old building with a suitably creepy atmosphere, The Dracula Experience takes you on a journey through Whitby’s gothic history, blending fact with fiction. Expect ghostly surprises, dimly lit corridors, and plenty of unsettling moments, combined with delightfully kitschy charm, adding to its eerie, theatrical atmosphere.
Unfortunately, it was closed when I visited, so I didn’t get to experience it myself – but that just means I have a reason to return! If you’re brave enough to step inside, let me know what you think… if you make it out!
The Screaming Tunnel – A Passage of Ghostly Wails
The screaming tunnel Whitby is an intriguing spot – a narrow mysterious dark tunnel which is eerie to walk through but gives way to the most beautiful and hidden view of the harbour, the 199 steps and Whitby Abbey once you make it through the other side.
By day, it is admittedly slightly spooky to walk through but by night, it’s much more terrifying, particularly when you remember the local legends and ghost stories associated with it. But what is the story behind the Screaming Tunnel – also known as Dracula’s Tunnel?
Many claim to hear unexplained screams, but the most famous legend tells of a woman who walked through the tunnel years ago. Feeling watched, she turned back at the exit – only to see a dark shadowy figure lurking at the entrance. She screamed so loudly that the tunnel was forever named after her chilling experience.
Some say the tunnel is haunted by a restless spirit of a murdered woman, and visitors report hearing distant screams, sudden temperature drops, and an eerie feeling of being watched.
Would you be brave enough to visit after dark? Given how dark and damp the tunnel is, I wasn’t brave enough. But I did visit at dusk – just as the sun was setting – and although I didn’t experience anything paranormal, I did feel unsettled!
Grape Lane – The Darkest Alley in Whitby
Tucked away in Whitby’s old town, Grape Lane may seem like just another quaint, narrow street – but its past is much darker than it appears. Originally named Grope Lane, the name suggests its links to Whitby’s old red-light district, a remnant of the town’s more shadowy history.
Over the years, locals and visitors alike have reported strange whispers, eerie footsteps, and an unsettling presence, even when the street is empty. Though bustling and charming by day, Grape Lane takes on a far more sinister atmosphere after dark, with tight passageways and deep shadows adding to the unease.
It’s also the setting of one of Whitby’s most chilling ghost stories—the legend of the Burning Girl (But be warned her story isn’t for the faint of heart…). You’ll find the full tale inside my Haunted Whitby Travel Guide, along with even more ghost stories, folklore, and hidden spots across town.
The Hand of Glory – The Cursed Relic
Did you know Whitby is home to one of the most chilling relics in folklore? The gruesome, mummified Hand of Glory is found in Whitby Museum and is said to have magical powers!
According to folklore, a hand of glory was a tool used by criminals to paralyse victims while robbing them. To do this, someone must cut the hand off of a still-hanging corpse and either light the hand (using the fingers as candles) or create a candle made of fat from the corpse and use the hand as a candle holder. This would put sleepers into a trance from which they could not be awakened until the candle burned out. Therefore, it was an excellent tool for burglars who could slip inside houses and safely rob them whilst the people inside were asleep!
You’ll find the UK’s only surviving Hand of Glory on display in Whitby Museum. It was discovered in 1922, hidden inside an old cottage owned by local historian, Joseph Ford. Joseph passed the hand on to his friend, Mr Buckton, in the 1930s, who eventually donated it to the museum in 1935.
It’s both fascinating and gruesome, but definitely worth a visit. Wandering around Whitby Museum is the perfect pick for a rainy day – the small museum has lots to see, from dinosaur footprints, giant fossils and even a witch post!
Beware if you get too close! According to legend, anyone who touches the Hand of Glory risks being cursed with eternal bad luck—or worse, falling into an unnatural sleep, just like its victims. Some believe that cursed objects can trigger strange occurrences, from sudden cold spots to objects mysteriously moving on their own. Thankfully, the hand is safely sealed in a glass case at the museum, so no such incidents have been reported… yet. But whether you believe in the curse or not, it’s probably best to keep your hands to yourself – just in case.
Don’t fancy taking the risk? There’s a funny little plaque that showcases the Hand of Glory pointing to the museum nearby. It’s a fun little photo opportunity if you can’t stomach seeing the real thing.
Bagdale Hall Hotel – Stay Overnight with the Spirits
If you’re looking for a truly haunted stay in Whitby, Bagdale Hall Hotel is a great option. This stunning Tudor-style building, dating back to the 16th century, is one of the oldest buildings in Whitby – and one of the most haunted!
Bagdale Hall has long been associated with ghostly goings-on, with guests and staff reporting unexplained footsteps, strange whispers, and sudden cold spots. The most famous spirit said to roam the halls is that of Browne Bushell, a former owner of the house who was executed for piracy in 1651. According to legend, his restless spirit still lingers, making his presence known to overnight guests.
Though I didn’t stay the night myself, I did manage to pop inside to get some photos. The dimly lit interiors, historic wooden beams, and antique furnishings add to the hotel’s haunted charm. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, Bagdale Hall offers a truly atmospheric experience for anyone brave enough to spend the night.
Would you dare to stay?
Whitby Ghost Walk – Meet the Spirits of the Town
One of the best ways to learn all about Whitby’s most haunted locations is by taking a Whitby ghost walk! Led by the friendly and knowledgeable Dr Crank, this 75-minute walk takes you on a whistle-stop tour of Whitby’s spookiest spots, all whilst sharing eerie stories and insider knowledge about some of its lesser-known hauntings.
I learned so much on the tour, but my favourite part was Dr Crank’s chilling retelling of The Legend of the Barghest Coach. It definitely gave me the creeps, especially as we looked out over St. Mary’s Churchyard on that cold winter night!
Dr Crank also teased that if you ask nicely at one of the pubs in Whitby, the bar staff might show you a mark made by the infamous Hand of Glory. He didn’t reveal which pub, and as I was travelling solo, I wasn’t brave enough to ask around all the pubs to find it! But that’s definitely on my to-do list for next time. I’d also like to take his Dracula tour next time, which sounds really fun.
While I’ve included some of my favourite spooky spots here, my detailed Whitby Dark Tourism Itinerary dives deeper into hidden gems, exclusive ghost stories, and step-by-step routes to maximise your eerie experience.
My Spooky Solo Trip to Whitby
Armed with a list of spooky spots to tick off my list, I travelled to Whitby for a solo trip in early February. Though it was off-peak, I loved exploring this historic town at a slower pace. The early nights and chilly weather helped add to the eerie atmosphere too.
I had such a great time. At first, it felt a little weird visiting a seaside town in the middle of winter, but the cold weather didn’t deter me. I even managed to enjoy fish and chips on the pier! Well, some fish and chips. I had to relocate after ten minutes due to the vicious seagulls gearing up for an attack!
What I really loved about Whitby is not only is it suitably spooky, but I really loved exploring all the spots related to Dracula – especially after seeing Nosferatu earlier this year. I haven’t finished reading Dracula yet (in fact, I treated myself to a copy whilst I was there!), but with the gothic ruins of the abbey dramatically looming over the city, the cobbled winding lanes and all the folklore surrounding the town, it was so easy to see why Bram Stoker found so much inspiration for the iconic novel here.
It’s such a great place for dark tourists too – so much so that I’m already planning to head back in the summer and tick off more spooky things that I didn’t get to do this time around. I’m also excited to experience it in warmer weather too!
Now that you’re ready to immerse yourself in the haunting atmosphere of Whitby, here’s how you can make your spooky trip a reality!
How to Plan Your Spooky Whitby Trip
Whitby is a charming and historic seaside town on the North Yorkshire coast, nestled between the Cleveland Hills and the North Sea. From visiting ancient ruins to tracking down spooky tales, there’s no shortage of spooky, strange and unusual things to do in Whitby that will give you a taste of the town’s eerie history.
As a popular tourist destination, it’s easily accessible by car or public transport:
By Car: Whitby is easily accessible by road, around 30 miles from the A1(M) and the A171, making it a straightforward drive from major cities like York and Scarborough. Depending on the direction you come from, you may be lucky enough to drive through the North Yorkshire Moors on your way in!
By Train: Whitby has a train station with regular services from Middlesbrough, taking you through scenic countryside along the Esk Valley Line. You could even take a train to or from Goathland, a pretty train station that was used for Hogsmeade station in the first Harry Potter film.
By Bus: Several bus services connect Whitby to nearby towns and cities, with direct routes from York, Scarborough, and Middlesbrough. If you have time, I’d definitely recommend squeezing in a trip to York as well!
Whitby itself is easily accessible on foot (though a little hilly!) with plenty of parking throughout. I parked at Silver Street Car Park as it was closeby to my accommodation and available on JustPark. There are definitely more affordable options throughout the town though. And many hotels offer free on-street parking scratch cards. Otherwise, there’s also the option of Whitby’s Park and Ride service, available from spring onwards.
The only thing I would add about driving into Whitby is that once you get into the main area, a lot of streets are one-way. I definitely got a little overwhelmed trying to find the way to my accommodation, which resulted in me driving down some very narrow back and side streets. Luckily a (stag group – I hope!) of men dressed as Ghostbusters pointed me in the right direction!
During summer, Whitby has a fantastic atmosphere but can get crowded with tourists. If you’re after peace and beautiful photos though, this is the perfect time to visit – though do be aware some attractions close or have limited hours. Of course, it’s always a great idea to experience Whitby Goth Weekend too!
I would recommend a minimum of 2-3 nights in Whitby, but if you really want a slower pace to experience everything this town has to offer, 4-5 nights is probably ideal. As for accommodation, I don’t have any specific recommendations (I was sorely disappointed in my hotel!), but overall, you can definitely find affordable accommodation (as well as more luxurious hotels too).
I also found that Whitby was a really affordable place to visit! I didn’t eat out much, but I found food, attractions and general spending kept the costs down overall.
So whether you’re a Dracula fang-atic, a dark tourist or you’re just intrigued by the gothic themes in this charming town, Whitby is a wonderful pick.
What’s the spookiest place you’ve visited in Whitby? Let me know in the comments!
Loved this list? My Haunted Whitby Travel Guide includes extra haunted locations, a custom Google Map, and step-by-step routes for the ultimate spooky experience.
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Thank you for helping me learn more about Whitby. I am also planning a trip.
Hi Angel, you are so welcome! You might want to check out my guide to help you plan your trip as well 🙂 x