Darlington - Durham - Guisborough - Hartlepool - Middlesbrough - Recar - Saltburn - Scarborough - Stockton - Whitby

An area steeped in history from Celtic times to early Christianity, along with its seafaring tradition, Whitby has definitely retained its character and charm. The busy harbour is set in a ravine at the mouth of the River Esk with visible views of the cliff-top ruins of St Hilda's Abbey. The narrow alleys and streets lead to a busy quayside, with harbourside houses and shops filled with antiques and crafts. A walk up the 'infamous' 199 steps leading to the parish Church of St Mary is a must, as they feature carved pews made by craftsmen from Whitby's once-booming whaling fleet. And it was St Mary's churchyard which inspired novelist Bram Stoker to write his famous book - Dracula. Other novelists smitten by Whitby's breathtaking beauty were Charles Dickens and Lord Tennyson. Other highlights to visit include Whitby Museum, where you can learn about the life and times of Whitby's most famous resident, Captain James Cook. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum, his former house in Grape Lane, retains its style of the time - when Whitby was the seventh largest port in England. Part of the Captain Cook Trail visits the fishing village of Staithes, where Cook worked as an apprentice before moving to Whitby. And watch out for two women who still wear the traditional Staithes bonnet. The town is also recognised for its jewellery and the Whitby Jet is a hard black mineral dug from the cliffs. Sadly, only a few craftsmen remain but they can be seen at work at the Whitby Jet and Enamel Workshop in Church Street. The North York Moors National Park covers the area stretching to Goathland - home of hit TV series 'Heartbeat.' And a ride on the North York Moors Steam Railway is a must for any visitor, going from Grosmont to Pickering and taking in stunning views of the Moors and its picturesque countryside.

For further information contact Whitby Tourist Information Centre on (01947) 602674.

Darlington - Durham - Guisborough - Hartlepool - Middlesbrough - Recar - Saltburn - Scarborough - Stockton - Whitby