The Dracula Experience, Whitby
Step into Whitby’s gothic past with a spine-chilling journey through Bram Stoker’s Dracula legend, brought to life with effects and live actors.
The Dracula Experience in Whitby is a unique indoor attraction that immerses visitors in the eerie story of Bram Stoker's Dracula and its connection to the coastal town. Featuring animated scenes, special effects, mannequins, and live actors during peak times, it offers a spine-chilling yet educational journey through the vampire legend set against Whitby's historic backdrop.
A brief summary to Dracula Experience Ltd
- 9 Marine Parade, Whitby, YO21 3PR, GB
- +441947601923
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during peak season or school holidays to see live actors enhance the spooky atmosphere.
- Suitable for older children and adults; very young children may find some scenes unsettling.
- Combine your visit with nearby Whitby attractions like the harbor and Captain Cook Museum.
- Tickets are affordable, but check the official website for the latest prices and opening hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services run regularly from Whitby town center to Marine Parade, with a journey time of about 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Buses operate frequently during the day but check schedules for evening services.
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Taxi
Taxis from Whitby railway station or town center take around 10 minutes to reach 9 Marine Parade. The fare typically ranges from £6 to £10 depending on time and traffic. Taxis are readily available but may require booking during peak tourist seasons.
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Walking
From Whitby town center, the Dracula Experience is a 20-25 minute walk along mostly flat terrain. The route passes scenic harbor views and is suitable for most visitors, though not wheelchair accessible.
Dracula Experience Ltd location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dracula Experience Ltd
Origins of the Dracula Legend in Whitby
The Dracula Experience draws its inspiration from Bram Stoker's famous novel, which was partly set in Whitby. The town's dramatic coastline and historic sites, such as Whitby Abbey, provided vivid imagery for the story. The attraction recounts key moments like the mysterious arrival of the Russian schooner Demeter, whose dead crew and captain were found lashed to the helm after a storm. A large black dog, a vampire's shape-shifting form, was seen leaping ashore and running toward the abbey, marking the arrival of Count Dracula in England.Immersive Storytelling and Atmosphere
Visitors enter through a darkened entrance where a recorded audio narration sets the scene, guiding them through rooms filled with mannequins, animatronics, and atmospheric special effects. The experience is enhanced by live actors during busy periods, who recreate scenes from the novel and add moments of surprise. The journey culminates in a short film that explores the historical figure Vlad Tepes, the real-life inspiration behind Dracula, deepening the connection between fact and fiction.Educational and Spooky Entertainment
The Dracula Experience balances fright with education, offering insights into Bram Stoker’s life and the gothic elements that inspired his work. It reveals how Whitby’s geography and history influenced the novel’s setting. While some scenes may be unsettling for very young children, the attraction avoids graphic content, making it suitable for older children and adults who enjoy spooky stories and cultural heritage.Setting and Location
Located at 9 Marine Parade, the attraction sits in the heart of Whitby, close to the harbor and other notable sites like the Captain Cook Museum. Its indoor setting allows visitors to escape the often unpredictable coastal weather while enjoying a theatrical and sensory experience. The compact layout includes corridors with strobe lighting and enclosed spaces designed to build suspense and atmosphere.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Entry prices are modest, with adult tickets around £5 and children’s tickets slightly less. The experience typically lasts under an hour, making it a convenient addition to a day exploring Whitby. Although there are no on-site restrooms or food facilities, nearby amenities in town provide options for dining and refreshments. The attraction is not wheelchair accessible and may be unsuitable for toddlers or those sensitive to sudden scares.Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Dracula Experience celebrates Whitby’s unique place in literary history and its ongoing cultural fascination with the vampire myth. It offers fans and curious visitors alike a chance to step into the eerie world of Dracula, blending storytelling, history, and theatrical effects to keep the legend alive in a distinctly Whitby setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Town Hall
0.2 km
A neoclassical gem in Whitby’s Market Square, blending centuries of history with vibrant market life and ongoing restoration.
Whitby Walks
0.2 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Whitby with guided tours from Whitby Walks, perfect for every traveler.
Whitby Harbour West Lighthouse
0.5 km
Historic sentinel guiding ships since 1831—climb 81 steps for harbour views and maritime heritage.
Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
0.6 km
Historic sandstone lighthouse guarding Whitby Harbour’s entrance, offering timeless maritime charm and stunning coastal views.
Skelton Tower
19.9 km
Historic Skelton Tower stands as a romantic ruin with sweeping views over Newtondale and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Westmoreland Street
60.7 km
Explore Darlington from Westmoreland Street, your hub for transport, local culture, and historical attractions in County Durham.
Ludworth Tower
61.9 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
Foss Fairy Trail
65.3 km
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Robin Hood Tower
65.7 km
Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
Medieval Walls
65.7 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
City Wall Walk
65.7 km
Explore the historic City Wall Walk in York for breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history in one of England's most delightful cities.
Monk Bar
65.7 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
York City Walls
65.8 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
65.8 km
Explore the grandeur of Treasurer's House in York, a captivating historical museum that unveils the rich tapestry of English heritage.
St Anthonys Garden
65.8 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whitby Coastal Cruises Ltd
0.1 km
Iconic yellow boats offering affordable daily cruises, wildlife encounters, and fishing adventures from Whitby's historic harbour.
Whitby Marine Discovery Centre & Whitby Lobster Hatchery
0.1 km
Discover native marine life and support lobster conservation at Whitby’s engaging aquarium and hatchery by the harbour.
Whitby Whale Watching
0.1 km
Seasonal whale watching cruises from Whitby harbour, searching for minke, humpback and other whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds along the Yorkshire coast.
Whitby Swing Bridge
0.1 km
Experience the charm and history of Whitby Swing Bridge, a stunning landmark connecting the picturesque town with breathtaking views of the River Esk.
Whitby Antiques & Collectables Emporium
0.1 km
Discover Whitby’s rich heritage through a vast collection of antiques and collectibles in the heart of town’s historic Flowergate street.
Whitby Crabbing Corner
0.2 km
Experience the timeless joy of seaside crabbing at Whitby’s charming harbour corner, where family fun meets stunning coastal views.
Whitby Storyteller Guided Walks and Tours
0.2 km
Explore the captivating history and folklore of Whitby with the Whitby Storyteller Guided Walks and Tours, a must-do for every visitor.
Abbey House Visitor Centre, Museum & Tea Room
0.2 km
Discover Whitby Abbey’s rich history and stunning coastal views at the welcoming Abbey House Visitor Centre, featuring museum exhibits and a charming tea room.
Crocodile
0.2 km
A cozy and creative tapas bar in Whitby serving innovative small plates with fine wines and cocktails in an intimate setting.
Black Pearl Boat Trips
0.2 km
Experience Whitby’s coast with lively pirate-themed boat trips offering fun, scenic views, and friendly crew for all ages.
199 Steps
0.2 km
Climb the legendary 199 Steps in Whitby, where history, faith, and Dracula’s shadow converge atop the scenic East Cliff.
Arch & Abbey
0.2 km
A cozy micropub in Whitby offering rotating real ales, Yorkshire gins, homemade cakes, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
0.2 km
Discover the legendary voyages of Captain Cook in Whitby’s historic museum, blending maritime heritage with modern explorations of health at sea and in space.
RNLI Whitby Museum
0.2 km
Explore Whitby’s maritime heroism and lifeboat legacy in this historic, free-entry museum on the scenic Pier Road.
Saint Niklaus Krampus Run Whitby
0.3 km
Experience Whitby’s thrilling Saint Niklaus Krampus Run, a festive parade blending ancient European folklore with lively music and theatrical mischief.
Essential places to dine
The Moon & Sixpence
0.0 km
Relax by Whitby’s waterfront with fresh seafood, grilled delights, and creative cocktails at The Moon & Sixpence.
The Marine Bar & Restaurant
0.0 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Marine Bar & Restaurant, a welcoming Whitby dining spot with stunning sea views and modern comfort.
Quayside
0.1 km
Fresh, crispy fish and chips served by the scenic Whitby Harbour in a welcoming, tastefully decorated setting.
Harry's Lounge Bar & Brasserie
0.1 km
Modern British tapas and seafood with harbour views in Whitby’s lively lounge bar and brasserie.
Abbey Wharf
0.1 km
Experience fresh seafood and vibrant bar culture with stunning harbour views at Whitby's Abbey Wharf.
Magpie Café
0.1 km
Experience Whitby's iconic waterfront dining with the freshest seafood and stunning harbour views at the historic Magpie Café.
Emma's Diner
0.2 km
Step into Emma's Diner for hearty American classics and a welcoming retro vibe with tasty vegan options in the heart of Whitby.
Monks Haven
0.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh, gluten-free dining in a friendly, dog-welcoming cafe nestled in Whitby's oldest building.
Harbour Grill
0.2 km
Savor hearty barbecue classics with harbour views at Harbour Grill, Whitby’s beloved casual eatery on Pier Road.
THE FOUR SEASONS RESTAURANT
0.2 km
A welcoming Whitby eatery blending Mediterranean and English classics with famed fish and chips in a central, family-friendly setting.
Sanders Yard Bistro
0.2 km
A charming, dog-friendly bistro in Whitby offering fresh, locally sourced breakfasts, brunches, and lunches with vegan and gluten-free options.
Velveteen French Cafe, Bar & Brasserie
0.2 km
Elegant modern French dining in the heart of Whitby, blending classic flavors with a cozy, refined atmosphere.
The White Horse & Griffin
0.2 km
Historic Whitby hotel and seafood restaurant blending maritime heritage with cozy charm and fresh coastal cuisine.
Al Taco
0.2 km
Savor authentic Mexican street food with bold flavors and friendly service in the heart of Whitby at Al Taco.
The Edge Restaurant
0.2 km
A charming Whitby bistro offering fresh seafood, diverse menus, and attentive service in a welcoming coastal setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Esho Funi
0.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Esho Funi, Whitby’s charming and stylish gift shop on Marine Parade.
Whitby Gift Shop
0.0 km
Discover authentic local crafts and unique coastal souvenirs at Whitby Gift Shop, a charming treasure on Marine Parade in historic Whitby.
Rainbow Shells
0.0 km
Discover unique local treasures, spiritual gems, and charming souvenirs at Rainbow Shells, Whitby’s cozy gift shop in the heart of town.
Whitby Wholefoods & Propagansey
0.1 km
A charming Whitby shop blending natural wholefoods, vitamins, and hand-made wool for health and craft enthusiasts alike.
Whitby Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless style and nostalgia at Whitby Vintage, a charming boutique on Flowergate offering curated retro fashion in a historic town setting.
Asylum Antiquities
0.1 km
Discover Whitby’s hidden antique gems and quirky collectibles in the charming Asylum Antiquities shop at Abbey Wharf.
Pandemonium
0.1 km
Discover Whitby’s gothic heart at Pandemonium, a unique shop offering alternative fashion and accessories in the town’s historic core.
Venus Trading
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky treasures with warm local charm at Venus Trading, Whitby’s beloved novelty boutique.
Hildoceras
0.1 km
Whitby's premier destination for locally crafted souvenirs, fossil treasures, and artisan gifts celebrating five decades of coastal heritage.
Furbellow & Co
0.1 km
A classic Whitby barber and menswear shop where timeless style meets warm, personal service in a charming riverside setting.
Curio Corner
0.1 km
Discover Whitby’s charming Curio Corner, a quaint gift shop brimming with unique treasures and vintage collectibles in the heart of Market Place.
Layla Rhode
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and coastal charm at Layla Rhode, Whitby's beloved boutique in the historic Market Place.
The Whitby Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Yorkshire artisan gifts and local treasures in the heart of Whitby’s historic Church Street.
The Little Shop of Wonderful Things
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and quirky curios in the heart of Whitby’s historic Flowergate at The Little Shop of Wonderful Things.
Rumours
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Rumours, a charming gift shop in Whitby, perfect for capturing the spirit of your visit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ship Inn
0.0 km
A charming seaside pub on Whitby’s Marine Parade, blending unique decor, hearty food, and harbor views in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Buck Inn
0.1 km
Lively harbourfront pub and cozy inn offering authentic Whitby charm and vibrant local atmosphere on St Anne's Staith.
The Golden Lion
0.1 km
A lively Irish pub in Whitby offering authentic music, quirky charm, and great value in a historic coastal town setting.
The Esk Vaults
0.1 km
Discover Whitby’s cozy upstairs pub with craft beers, homemade food, and a welcoming family-friendly vibe at The Esk Vaults.
The Dolphin
0.2 km
A charming harbourfront hotel and pub in Whitby offering spacious rooms, hearty breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere right on the waterfront.
Black Horse Inn
0.2 km
A charming, historic pub and inn in Whitby offering cozy rooms, Yorkshire tapas, and warm, welcoming hospitality in the town’s vibrant heart.
Beer oclock
0.2 km
A modern micropub in Whitby blending craft beer culture with cozy charm and historic character on Flowergate.
The Black Swan
0.2 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending classic charm with lively nights and friendly service on Baxtergate.
Duke of York Whitby
0.2 km
Historic Whitby pub and cozy hotel with classic fare, real ales, and stunning harbour views at the foot of the iconic 199 Steps.
The Elsinore
0.2 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending warm hospitality, lively music, and authentic local charm on historic Flowergate.
The Granby
0.2 km
A traditional Whitby pub offering hearty meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere just steps from the beach and harbour.
Little Angel
0.2 km
A traditional Whitby pub with cozy rooms, lively entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Quirky Den
0.2 km
A cozy, family-run micro pub in Whitby with quirky charm, great ales, and stunning harbour views from its upstairs lounge.
NO54 bistro bar
0.3 km
Cozy and quirky bistro bar in Whitby serving local flavors, great wines, and gluten-free delights in a welcoming, dog-friendly setting.
The Endeavour
0.3 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Whitby’s harbour, famed for real ales, live music, and warm Yorkshire hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Videotheque Disco's
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
41.2 km
Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
41.3 km
Experience Middlesbrough’s energetic nightlife at Stereo Club Tees, a lively nightclub hosting up to 500 guests with late-night music and dancing.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
66.2 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
BlueBox
66.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
66.4 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
66.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Club Salvation
66.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
66.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
66.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
66.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
7even Nightclub
67.8 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
24 North Bailey Club
69.5 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Durham's 24 North Bailey Club, where good drinks and great company await.
Klute
69.6 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Osbournes
69.6 km
Experience Durham's vibrant nightlife at Osbournes, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
