Whitby
Whitby is a peaceful old seafaring town on the coast - Captain Cook learned to sail on sturdy coal ships out of Whitby. Hike up 199 steps to the medieval Church of St. Mary, surrounded by gravestones, but keep a lookout for any stray vampires. The churchyard and Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker when he wrote Dracula.
West Cliff Beach - West Cliff Beach has gentle waves and miles of golden sands that seem to go on forever. The water is a bit chilly for swimming, but you can buy beach toys at the shops on Pier Rd. and build sand castles all afternoon. Donkey rides, near to West Pier, are a favorite with kids.
Tip: To get down to the beach, use the walkways, or take the Cliff Lift on North Terrace.
West Cliff - Right above the beach is a seasonal outdoor paddling pool, at the Whitby Leisure Centre an indoor swimming pool, Crazy Golf mini-golf, and the Cliff Lift.
Whitby Wizard - If the weather isn't fabulous for outdoor activities, head inside to this hands-on science museum with over a hundred exhibits, where kids can experiment with light, color, smell, magnetism, and becoming invisible. Pier Road - Here's where you'll find ice cream and traditional sweet shops, a play center for little kids, mini-golf with a pirate theme, shooting gallery, mini-ten pin bowling, and amusement arcades.
Whitby Abbey - These glorious Gothic ruins sit stop an earlier Anglo Saxon church, founded in 657 AD. At the visitor center next door, interactive displays make the history of Whitby Abbey come alive, from the Abbess Hild to Dracula author Bram Stoker. The Abbey also has special events, such as twilight walks, medieval activities and games.
Ride a steam train - Take a ride on the steam train that goes for 18 miles through the spectacular North York Moors landscape, from Whitby to Pickering, with stops at Grosmont and Goathland along the way.
Whitby Museum - Older kids will enjoy the eclectic collections in the Whitby Museum - Bronze Age weapons, Roman coins, Anglo Saxon jewelry, model of Captain Cook's ship, Victorian costumes, 19th century jet brooches and ornaments.
Pannett Park - The Pannett Park playground is a wonderful play area for children. Expanding on Whitby's maritime history, kids can climb up a crow's nest, take the helm, or roll in the rigging, fun for kids of all ages.
Robin Hood's Bay -Just down the coast, Robin Hoods Bay is the perfect place for exploring the tide pools, filled with crabs, anemones, and periwinkles. (Rocks are sharp, so wear shoes, and keep an eye on the tide.)
