My Two Watercolour Paintings of Whitby, North Yorkshire

This seaside town is one of my favourite places, and I've spent many happy days here with my grandson — rock pooling, crab fishing, and eating some of the best fish and chips going.

To see my prints of Whitby, click here.

Whitby, a charming coastal town in North Yorkshire, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its historic attractions, scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere, it's well worth a visit.

One of the town's most iconic landmarks is the Swing Bridge, a unique and historic structure that spans the River Esk. The bridge swings open to allow boats to pass, providing a lovely view of the river and the surrounding town. Visitors can walk along the bridge and enjoy the panoramic views of the harbour.

Another popular attraction is St Mary's Church, which stands beside the striking ruins of Whitby Abbey on the headland above the town. The abbey was once one of the largest and most powerful monasteries in England, and today it stands as a testament to the town's rich history. Visitors can take a guided tour and explore its fascinating architecture and setting.

For those looking for something a little different, Whitby is also famous for its Goth Weekend. This festival draws visitors from around the world, who come to enjoy the town's gothic atmosphere and take part in live music, fancy dress and other events — a nod to the town's connection with Bram Stoker's Dracula.

You can read more about it here: Whitby Dracula gathering smashes vampire fancy dress world record.

One of Whitby's most iconic activities is crab fishing in the harbour. Visitors can join local fishermen and learn the art of crab fishing, then enjoy a fresh and delicious seafood meal right by the sea.