The Haggerlythe: Whitby’s Historic East Cliff Enclave
Historic coastal enclave beneath Whitby’s East Cliff offering dramatic views, rich heritage, and a glimpse into Yorkshire’s dynamic geological past.
The Haggerlythe is a historic area nestled beneath Whitby’s East Cliff, known for its dramatic coastal views, rich heritage, and geological significance. Once home to monastic buildings, workshops, and a chapel, it is now a tranquil spot offering sweeping panoramas over Whitby Harbour and the North Sea. The area’s cliff instability and history of landslides add a unique natural dimension to its cultural and scenic appeal.
A brief summary to The Haggerlythe
- Church St, Whitby, YO22 4DW, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views over Whitby Harbour and the North Sea.
- Bring a camera to capture iconic shots of Whitby Abbey ruins and the twin lighthouses from unique angles.
- Wear sturdy footwear if exploring cliff paths nearby, as terrain can be uneven due to natural erosion.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Dracula Trail to explore Whitby’s literary heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Whitby town center to Church Street near The Haggerlythe, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules in advance. A single fare costs around £2-£3.
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Taxi
A taxi from Whitby town center to The Haggerlythe takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £5-£8. This option offers direct and flexible access but may be limited late at night.
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Walking
From Whitby town center, a 20-30 minute walk along paved and cobbled streets leads to The Haggerlythe. The route includes some gentle inclines and is suitable for most walkers but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
The Haggerlythe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Haggerlythe
A Storied Past Beneath Whitby’s East Cliff
The Haggerlythe lies tucked under the East Cliff of Whitby, an area steeped in history and once bustling with activity. It was home to a variety of structures including monastic buildings, a chapel, workshops, and even a clay pipe factory, reflecting the industrious nature of the community that thrived here. The name Haggerlythe itself evokes a sense of place tied closely to Whitby’s medieval and maritime heritage.Geological Drama and Coastal Change
This area exemplifies the natural forces shaping the Yorkshire coastline. The cliffs of the Haggerlythe have suffered from periodic landslides for centuries, most notably a great landslide on Christmas Eve 1787 that destroyed houses and displaced many families. These ongoing geological processes highlight the dynamic and sometimes precarious relationship between human settlement and the natural environment along this rugged coast.Scenic Vistas and Tranquil Atmosphere
Today, The Haggerlythe offers visitors peaceful spots to take in stunning views over Whitby Harbour, the twin lighthouses, and the expansive North Sea beyond. The vantage points here provide iconic panoramas of Whitby’s historic skyline, including the ruins of Whitby Abbey perched atop the cliffs. The area’s quiet charm makes it ideal for reflection and appreciating the coastal landscape’s beauty.Literary and Cultural Connections
Whitby’s East Cliff, including the Haggerlythe area, is famously linked to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The dramatic cliffs, churchyard, and abbey ruins nearby inspired scenes in the novel, adding a layer of gothic mystique to the locale. Visitors interested in literary heritage will find the atmosphere evocative of the novel’s eerie setting and the town’s rich storytelling traditions.Preserving a Unique Coastal Heritage
The Haggerlythe stands as a testament to the interplay of natural forces and human history on the Yorkshire coast. Efforts to understand and manage cliff stability continue to protect this fragile environment. The area’s heritage buildings and archaeological remains contribute to Whitby’s broader cultural landscape, making The Haggerlythe a significant site for both natural and historical exploration.Experiencing The Haggerlythe Today
Visitors to The Haggerlythe can enjoy a quiet retreat beneath the cliffs, with ample opportunities for photography, contemplation, and connection with Whitby’s maritime past. The blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and coastal atmosphere creates a distinctive experience that enriches any visit to Whitby’s East Cliff area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Town Hall
0.3 km
A neoclassical gem in Whitby’s Market Square, blending centuries of history with vibrant market life and ongoing restoration.
Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
0.3 km
Historic sandstone lighthouse guarding Whitby Harbour’s entrance, offering timeless maritime charm and stunning coastal views.
Whitby Harbour West Lighthouse
0.4 km
Historic sentinel guiding ships since 1831—climb 81 steps for harbour views and maritime heritage.
Whitby Walks
0.6 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Whitby with guided tours from Whitby Walks, perfect for every traveler.
Skelton Tower
20.3 km
Historic Skelton Tower stands as a romantic ruin with sweeping views over Newtondale and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Westmoreland Street
61.0 km
Explore Darlington from Westmoreland Street, your hub for transport, local culture, and historical attractions in County Durham.
Ludworth Tower
62.1 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
Foss Fairy Trail
65.7 km
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Robin Hood Tower
66.0 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
66.0 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
66.1 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
66.1 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
York City Walls
66.1 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
66.2 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
66.2 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
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.
Whitby Abbey
0.2 km
Explore the haunting Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey, a historic clifftop landmark that inspired Dracula and offers breathtaking sea views.
Whitby Storyteller Guided Walks and Tours
0.3 km
Explore the captivating history and folklore of Whitby with the Whitby Storyteller Guided Walks and Tours, a must-do for every visitor.
RNLI Whitby Museum
0.4 km
Explore Whitby’s maritime heroism and lifeboat legacy in this historic, free-entry museum on the scenic Pier Road.
Whitby Marine Discovery Centre & Whitby Lobster Hatchery
0.4 km
Discover native marine life and support lobster conservation at Whitby’s engaging aquarium and hatchery by the harbour.
Dracula Experience Ltd
0.4 km
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.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
0.4 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.
Whitby Coastal Cruises Ltd
0.4 km
Iconic yellow boats offering affordable daily cruises, wildlife encounters, and fishing adventures from Whitby's historic harbour.
Whitby Swing Bridge
0.4 km
Experience the charm and history of Whitby Swing Bridge, a stunning landmark connecting the picturesque town with breathtaking views of the River Esk.
Saint Niklaus Krampus Run Whitby
0.5 km
Experience Whitby’s thrilling Saint Niklaus Krampus Run, a festive parade blending ancient European folklore with lively music and theatrical mischief.
Whalebone Arch
0.5 km
A towering tribute on Whitby’s West Cliff, the Whalebone Arch honors the town’s daring whaling past with stunning sea views and historic resonance.
Whitby Beach
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant charm and natural beauty of Whitby Beach, where sandy shores meet historic cliffs and family fun awaits.
Captain Cook Memorial
0.5 km
Discover the birthplace of Captain Cook’s maritime legacy in Whitby’s historic 17th-century house, where adventure and history come alive.
Whitby Crabbing Corner
0.5 km
Experience the timeless joy of seaside crabbing at Whitby’s charming harbour corner, where family fun meets stunning coastal views.
Whitby Whale Watching
0.5 km
Seasonal whale watching cruises from Whitby harbour, searching for minke, humpback and other whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds along the Yorkshire coast.
Essential places to dine
Sanders Yard Bistro
0.3 km
A charming, dog-friendly bistro in Whitby offering fresh, locally sourced breakfasts, brunches, and lunches with vegan and gluten-free options.
Monks Haven
0.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh, gluten-free dining in a friendly, dog-welcoming cafe nestled in Whitby's oldest building.
Abbey Wharf
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood and vibrant bar culture with stunning harbour views at Whitby's Abbey Wharf.
The White Horse & Griffin
0.3 km
Historic Whitby hotel and seafood restaurant blending maritime heritage with cozy charm and fresh coastal cuisine.
Harbour Grill
0.4 km
Savor hearty barbecue classics with harbour views at Harbour Grill, Whitby’s beloved casual eatery on Pier Road.
Hadley's Fish & Chips
0.4 km
Savor Whitby’s iconic fish and chips at Hadley’s, a historic spot famed for fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and classic Yorkshire flavors.
The Fisherman's Wife Whitby
0.4 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking sea views at Whitby’s beloved Fisherman’s Wife restaurant.
The Edge Restaurant
0.4 km
A charming Whitby bistro offering fresh seafood, diverse menus, and attentive service in a welcoming coastal setting.
THE FOUR SEASONS RESTAURANT
0.4 km
A welcoming Whitby eatery blending Mediterranean and English classics with famed fish and chips in a central, family-friendly setting.
Cosa Nostra
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a charming Grade II listed building in the heart of Whitby, blending heritage with exceptional flavors.
Magpie Café
0.4 km
Experience Whitby's iconic waterfront dining with the freshest seafood and stunning harbour views at the historic Magpie Café.
Humble Pie n Mash Ltd
0.4 km
Savor hearty traditional British pies and mash in a cozy 1940s-themed Whitby eatery rich with nostalgic charm and homemade flavors.
Harry's Lounge Bar & Brasserie
0.4 km
Modern British tapas and seafood with harbour views in Whitby’s lively lounge bar and brasserie.
Velveteen French Cafe, Bar & Brasserie
0.4 km
Elegant modern French dining in the heart of Whitby, blending classic flavors with a cozy, refined atmosphere.
Moutreys
0.4 km
Experience hearty Italian flavors and rustic charm in the heart of Whitby’s historic district at Moutreys.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rumours
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Rumours, a charming gift shop in Whitby, perfect for capturing the spirit of your visit.
The Whitby Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Yorkshire artisan gifts and local treasures in the heart of Whitby’s historic Church Street.
Curio Corner
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and coastal charm at Layla Rhode, Whitby's beloved boutique in the historic Market Place.
Asylum Antiquities
0.3 km
Discover Whitby’s hidden antique gems and quirky collectibles in the charming Asylum Antiquities shop at Abbey Wharf.
Coop's Curios
0.3 km
Discover Whitby’s hidden gems at Coop's Curios, a charming shop filled with antiques and collectibles that tell stories of the past.
Lighthouse Bay
0.4 km
Discover unique coastal crafts and sustainable gifts in the charming heart of Whitby’s old town at Lighthouse Bay.
Furbellow & Co
0.4 km
A classic Whitby barber and menswear shop where timeless style meets warm, personal service in a charming riverside setting.
J'adore Whitby
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and home furniture with a personal touch in the heart of historic Whitby at J'adore Whitby.
Venus Trading
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky treasures with warm local charm at Venus Trading, Whitby’s beloved novelty boutique.
Hildoceras
0.4 km
Whitby's premier destination for locally crafted souvenirs, fossil treasures, and artisan gifts celebrating five decades of coastal heritage.
Artefacts
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Artefacts, Whitby’s charming gift shop on Church Street, perfect for memorable souvenirs and special finds.
The Owl & The Pussycat
0.4 km
Whimsical boutique fashion in historic Whitby's charming heart.
Esho Funi
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Esho Funi, Whitby’s charming and stylish gift shop on Marine Parade.
Whitby Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic local crafts and unique coastal souvenirs at Whitby Gift Shop, a charming treasure on Marine Parade in historic Whitby.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Black Horse Inn
0.3 km
A charming, historic pub and inn in Whitby offering cozy rooms, Yorkshire tapas, and warm, welcoming hospitality in the town’s vibrant heart.
The Beach Shack
0.4 km
Relax by the North Sea at The Beach Shack, Whitby’s casual waterfront bar with scenic views and a laid-back vibe.
The Quirky Den
0.4 km
A cozy, family-run micro pub in Whitby with quirky charm, great ales, and stunning harbour views from its upstairs lounge.
The Dolphin
0.4 km
A charming harbourfront hotel and pub in Whitby offering spacious rooms, hearty breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere right on the waterfront.
The Endeavour
0.4 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Whitby’s harbour, famed for real ales, live music, and warm Yorkshire hospitality.
The Ship Inn
0.4 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
0.5 km
Lively harbourfront pub and cozy inn offering authentic Whitby charm and vibrant local atmosphere on St Anne's Staith.
The Golden Lion
0.5 km
A lively Irish pub in Whitby offering authentic music, quirky charm, and great value in a historic coastal town setting.
The Esk Vaults
0.5 km
Discover Whitby’s cozy upstairs pub with craft beers, homemade food, and a welcoming family-friendly vibe at The Esk Vaults.
The Fleece
0.5 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Whitby with stunning harbour views, hearty fare, and a vibrant community spirit.
The Black Swan
0.6 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending classic charm with lively nights and friendly service on Baxtergate.
Beer oclock
0.6 km
A modern micropub in Whitby blending craft beer culture with cozy charm and historic character on Flowergate.
The Granby
0.6 km
A traditional Whitby pub offering hearty meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere just steps from the beach and harbour.
Little Angel
0.6 km
A traditional Whitby pub with cozy rooms, lively entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Videotheque Disco's
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
41.5 km
Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
41.5 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)
66.6 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
BlueBox
66.6 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
66.8 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
66.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Club Salvation
66.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
66.9 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
66.9 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
66.9 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
7even Nightclub
67.9 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
69.6 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Durham's 24 North Bailey Club, where good drinks and great company await.
Klute
69.7 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Osbournes
69.8 km
Experience Durham's vibrant nightlife at Osbournes, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
