The Esk Vaults Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover Whitby’s cozy upstairs pub with craft beers, homemade food, and a welcoming family-friendly vibe at The Esk Vaults.

A brief summary of The Esk Vaults

Discover Whitby’s cozy upstairs pub with craft beers, homemade food, and a welcoming family-friendly vibe at The Esk Vaults.

Nestled upstairs at 5a Golden Lion Bank, The Esk Vaults is a beloved Whitby pub known for its unique craft beer selection, homemade food, and welcoming atmosphere. This cozy bar offers a family-friendly vibe with games for kids, making it a standout spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality drinks and casual dining in a relaxed setting.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.7 Excellent · 134 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon5 pm–10 pm
  • Tue1 pm–10 pm
  • Wed1 pm–10 pm
  • Thu1 pm–10 pm
  • Fri1 pm–11 pm
  • Sat12 pm–11 pm
  • Sun1 pm–10 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
5a Golden Lion Bank, Whitby YO21 3BS

Getting there

Bus

Take the local bus service to Whitby town center; from there, The Esk Vaults is a short 5-minute walk uphill. Bus journeys from nearby towns typically take 20-40 minutes with fares around £3-£5.

Train

Arrive at Whitby railway station on the Esk Valley Line. The pub is approximately a 15-minute walk through the town center, navigating some steep streets. Trains run several times daily from Middlesbrough and Scarborough, with tickets costing £5-£10.

Car

Driving to Whitby offers flexible timing; parking is available in nearby public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees range from £1 to £3 per hour, and the town center streets can be narrow and busy, especially on weekends.

Discover more about The Esk Vaults

A Hidden Gem Above Golden Lion Bank

Tucked away upstairs at 5a Golden Lion Bank, The Esk Vaults offers a distinctive experience away from the bustling streets of Whitby. Its location provides a cozy retreat with a quirky charm that sets it apart from typical pubs. The venue’s intimate setting invites guests to unwind and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, making it a favored spot for locals and tourists alike.

Craft Beer Selection and Beverage Highlights

The Esk Vaults boasts an impressive and constantly rotating selection of craft keg beers, available in various measures including 1/3, 1/2, and 2/3 pints. This variety caters to both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts eager to explore different styles and flavors. Alongside the keg lines, canned craft beers add to the diverse beverage offerings, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate.

Homemade Food and Pub Snacks

Complementing the drinks menu is a range of homemade food options, including highly praised pizzas and bar snacks. Portion sizes are generous, emphasizing quality and comfort. The food is crafted to pair well with the beer selection, enhancing the overall pub experience. This combination of hearty food and fine drinks makes The Esk Vaults a satisfying destination for casual meals.

Family-Friendly and Welcoming Ambience

Unlike many pubs, The Esk Vaults maintains a family-friendly atmosphere with games available for children, making it an inclusive space for visitors of all ages. The environment is relaxed and welcoming, with a pleasant background ambiance that encourages conversation and socializing without overwhelming noise.

Community and Local Character

The Esk Vaults has earned a reputation as one of the best bars in Whitby, praised for its unique character and quality offerings. Its upstairs location and distinct vibe contribute to a sense of discovery, inviting guests to experience a side of Whitby’s social scene that feels authentic and unpretentious.

Operating Hours and Visitor Experience

Open daily with slightly varied hours, The Esk Vaults typically welcomes guests from early afternoon until late evening, extending later on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule accommodates both daytime visitors and those seeking a relaxed night out. The combination of craft beers, homemade food, and a comfortable setting ensures a memorable visit whether stopping by for a quick drink or a leisurely meal.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · before 9am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 30% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 30% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 40% of the busiest month
  4. Apr: 50% of the busiest month
  5. May: 70% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 80% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 90% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 70% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 50% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 40% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 30% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 7am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 8am: 22% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 9am: 33% of the busiest hour
  5. 10am: 33% of the busiest hour
  6. 11am: 44% of the busiest hour
  7. 12pm: 56% of the busiest hour
  8. 1pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  9. 2pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  10. 3pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  11. 4pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  12. 5pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  13. 6pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  14. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  15. 8pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  16. 9pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  17. 10pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  18. 11pm: 44% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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