Whitby Abbey is a historic ruin located in the North Yorkshire town of Whitby, England. It is a major tourist attraction and a designated English Heritage site. The abbey is renowned for its Gothic architecture and its connections with the novel Dracula by Bram Stoker. The abbey ruins are situated on the East Cliff of Whitby, offering stunning coastal views.
History of Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey was founded in 657 AD by St Hilda, the abbess of a Saxon monastery. The abbey was destroyed by the Danes in 867 AD and rebuilt in 1078 as a Benedictine monastery. During the 13th century, the abbey was extended and remodelled in the Gothic style. The abbey was dissolved in 1540 during the reign of Henry VIII. The ruins of the abbey have been in existence since the dissolution and are now a major tourist attraction and English Heritage site.
Attractions at Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is home to a number of attractions, including:
- The ruins of the abbey, which are a designated English Heritage site.
- The abbey’s museum, which contains artefacts from the abbey’s history.
- The abbey’s grounds, which include a beautiful garden.
- The abbey’s church, which is still in use today.
- The abbey’s library, which contains rare books and manuscripts.
- The abbey’s crypt, which is open to the public.
What to Expect at Whitby Abbey
Visitors to Whitby Abbey can expect to explore the ruins of the abbey and learn about its history. There are also guided tours available, which provide an in-depth look at the abbey’s history and architecture. Visitors can also take in the stunning coastal views from the East Cliff, which is a popular spot for photography.
Tours at Whitby Abbey
Guided tours of the abbey are available from the English Heritage website. These tours provide an in-depth look at the abbey’s history and architecture, as well as its connections with Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula.
Admission to Whitby Abbey
Admission to Whitby Abbey is free, however, there is a charge for guided tours. Tickets for these tours can be purchased online from the English Heritage website.
Tips for Tourists Visiting Whitby Abbey
- Wear comfortable shoes as the abbey is located on a steep hill.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views.
- Bring a jacket as it can get chilly in the abbey’s grounds.
- Take time to explore the abbey’s museum and library.
- Take advantage of the guided tours for an in-depth look at the abbey’s history.
Practical Information for Tourists Visiting Whitby Abbey
- Address: Whitby Abbey, Church Street, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO21 3EJ, England.
- Opening Hours: 10am-5pm (April-October), 10am-4pm (November-March).
- Admission: Free, however, there is a charge for guided tours.
- Parking: There is a public car park located nearby.
- Public Transport: The abbey is a short walk from Whitby railway station.
Whitby Abbey is a historic ruin with a wealth of history and attractions. It is a major tourist attraction and a designated English Heritage site. Visitors to the abbey can explore the ruins, take in the stunning coastal views, and learn about the abbey’s history and connections with Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. Guided tours are available for those who want an in-depth look at the abbey’s history and architecture. Admission to the abbey is free, however, there is a charge for guided tours. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
