North East Coast Of England ~ Whitby: Photo Essay

On our recent holiday in the north east of England, we visited Whitby. 

Whitby is a small town on the north east coast, it sits on the mouth of the river Esk, where it runs into the North Sea. Fishing boats set out from Whitby harbour, and bring back their catch of lovely fresh fish, which is available in the many restuarants and cafe's.

Whitby is also famous for Whitby Jet, which is mined in the area, and comes from the fossilization of wood.

Captian Cook set sail from Whitby harbour on his voyages, he was born just along the coast at Staithes.

Whitby's other claim to fame is Bram Stoker, who is said to be burried in the churchyard by the abbey,and used Whitby for the setting of his novel Dracula.

We parked on the cliff top, near the abbey, and began our walk down. The first thing we see is the remains of the abbey.

Looking in the other direction, we can see the river Esk, it forms part of the harbour as it runs into the sea. This is the more industrial part of the harbour, where large boats are unloaded.

This can be seen more clearly a little further down. You can just see the North Yorkshire Moors in the background.

As we come down the steps we get some marvellous views of the harbour. There are 199 steps from the abbey to the sea.

But it is also a long climb back up again!

Here we are looking over the rooftops to the harbour.

Across the mouth of the river Esk, as it ends it's journey to the sea.

Finishing our descent, we make our way to the harbour. This photo was taken from the bridge, which opens to allow boats through.

This is a view of the bridge from the other side of the harbour, after we crossed over.

Looking back across the harbour to the quaint buildings of the old town.

On top of the cliff in the background is the church, and although you can't see it in this picture,the abbey remains are just behind it.

 Walking further out and onto the pier, which is really just the harbour wall, we look on the opposite side to the harbour. there are always lots of seagulls swooping around, and crying very loudly!

 Looking back to the shore you can just see a row of beach huts, they are brightly painted, but it is getting towards dusk, and more difficult to see.

Turning back again, we have one last look at the harbour, and on the cliff top you can see the church, and behind it the remains of the abbey, which is where we started from!