News Beat
Why you should visit Whitby for a winter coastal getaway
Whitby’s dramatic coastline, historic Abbey, annual festivals and lively pantomime season all make it one of the best places in the country to visit for a winter break.
The town topped the list of UK staycation destinations for winter last year, according to booking data from Sykes Holiday Cottages.
James Shaw, managing director at Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “While Whitby is known for drawing in holidaymakers with its coastal charm, our data has revealed that the ancient port has year-round appeal and is the most popular location for holidaymakers in the winter months.
“Making the most of every season is key to a successful holiday letting experience, helping to maximise annual revenues, which is now more important than ever.”
Situated between Sandsend and Robin Hood’s Bay, the famous Whitby was also named as the ultimate escape for the summer holidays in 2025.
It is described by TripAdvisor as: “Both a charming seaside town and the setting of Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula.’
Continuing: “Whitby is a place of paradox where families and vampire hunters rub shoulders at the beach and among the Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey.”
Whitby Sands, also known as West Cliff Beach, was named by County Living and highlighted for its “bright beach huts” earlier this year.
County Living said: “We’re never far from the coast in the UK – and when the sun shines, there’s nowhere we’d rather be than on a beautiful stretch of sand.”
A spokesperson said: “Whitby offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty and coastal charm, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.”
Best place to eat in Whitby
The Links Lounge – 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor (109 reviews)
Location: Whitby Golf Club, Sandsend Road, Whitby, YO21 3SR
Despite being closed on Mondays, The Links Lounge is popular on TripAdivsor, ranking as the number one restaurant in Whitby.
Situated at the golf club, it offers breakfast sandwiches, snacks, lunch and homemade cakes and scones ‘with outstanding views across the course.’
One satisfied customer said: “The menu had excellent choices and was great value for money. Three course meal followed by mince pies and coffee for just £30.
“It was delicious beautiful lamb shank for me and the best sticky toffee pudding I’ve ever had. Thanks to the staff for helping us out we’ve already booked for next year.”
