Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
Historic sandstone lighthouse guarding Whitby Harbour’s entrance, offering timeless maritime charm and stunning coastal views.
The Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse, a Grade II listed sandstone beacon built in 1854, stands sentinel at the entrance of Whitby’s historic harbour. This picturesque lighthouse on the East Pier guides vessels safely through the North Sea’s changing tides and offers visitors stunning views of the harbour and coastline. Though not open to the public for climbing, its charm and maritime heritage make it a beloved landmark in this vibrant fishing town.
A brief summary to Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
- Whitby, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather to enjoy spectacular views of the harbour and the North Sea from the East Pier.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the recently restored footbridge connecting the East Pier for a full harbour experience.
- Explore nearby attractions like the Lifeboat Museum and West Pier lighthouse to deepen your understanding of Whitby’s maritime history.
- Plan your visit in late spring or early summer to witness the rare phenomenon of the sun rising and setting over the North Sea.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Arriva North East bus services from Whitby town centre to the harbour area; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes with frequent daily departures. Walking from the bus stop to the East Pier Lighthouse is approximately 10 minutes along flat terrain. No additional fare beyond the bus ticket is required.
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Walking
From Whitby town centre, enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk to the East Pier Lighthouse via the harbour front. The route is mostly paved and accessible, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair users. Wear comfortable shoes as the pier surface can be uneven near the lighthouse.
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Car
Drive to Whitby Harbour and park in one of the nearby public car parks such as the West Cliff or Town Quay car parks, typically 5-10 minutes walk from the East Pier. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3.00 per hour depending on location and season. Note that the harbour area can be busy during summer weekends.
Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
A Beacon of Maritime Safety on Whitby’s East Pier
The Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse was constructed in 1854 as part of a crucial harbour improvement project designed to protect and guide ships entering the port. Built primarily from locally sourced sandstone, this Grade II listed structure rises approximately 17 metres (55 feet) and features a hexagonal lantern atop a sturdy Doric column. Its fixed red and green lights warn vessels of the harbour entrance and the perilous Whitby Rock nearby, continuing a legacy of maritime safety that dates back centuries.Historical Evolution and Harbour Significance
Whitby’s harbour has long been a vital deep-water anchorage on the North Yorkshire coast, with piers first recorded in the 16th century. The East Pier lighthouse was erected to complement the earlier West Pier lighthouse (built in 1831), both designed by engineer Francis Pickernell. These piers and their lights have been extended and modernized over time, notably in 1914, to accommodate the increasing size and volume of shipping traffic. The East Pier lighthouse remains a sentinel, guiding fishing boats, cargo vessels, and pleasure craft safely through the harbour mouth facing due north.Architectural Features and Setting
The lighthouse’s elegant stone construction blends seamlessly with the rugged maritime environment. Its hexagonal lantern room and Doric column base reflect 19th-century engineering aesthetics and functionality. Positioned at the end of the East Pier, the lighthouse offers a striking contrast to the taller West Pier lighthouse and serves as a picturesque focal point against the backdrop of Whitby’s bustling harbour and the North Sea beyond.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
While the East Pier lighthouse itself is not open for public entry, the pier and surrounding harbour area provide excellent opportunities for scenic walks, photography, and wildlife observation. The recently installed footbridge allows visitors to stroll the full length of the pier, enjoying panoramic views of the harbour, fishing boats, and the town’s historic skyline. The area is particularly atmospheric during summer months when the sun both rises and sets over the North Sea, a rare coastal phenomenon.Maritime Heritage and Local Culture
Whitby’s harbour and its lighthouses are deeply intertwined with the town’s maritime heritage, including fishing, shipbuilding, and trade dating back to the 17th century. The East Pier lighthouse stands as a symbol of this enduring connection to the sea, safeguarding vessels and supporting the local economy. Nearby attractions such as the Lifeboat Museum and the historic West Pier lighthouse enrich the cultural tapestry of the harbour area.Preservation and Continuing Role
Maintained as a Grade II listed building, the East Pier lighthouse is protected for its historical and architectural importance. Though automated and no longer requiring a keeper, it remains operational and monitored remotely, continuing its vital role in maritime navigation. Its preservation ensures that this iconic structure remains a defining feature of Whitby’s coastal landscape for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
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Unmissable attractions to see
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199 Steps
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Memorial
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Whitby Marine Discovery Centre & Whitby Lobster Hatchery
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Whitby Abbey
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Dracula Experience Ltd
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Essential places to dine
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Harbour Grill
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Magpie Café
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Harry's Lounge Bar & Brasserie
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Quayside
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Abbey Wharf
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The Marine Bar & Restaurant
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Sanders Yard Bistro
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Monks Haven
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The Moon & Sixpence
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The White Horse & Griffin
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Hadley's Fish & Chips
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The Edge Restaurant
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THE FOUR SEASONS RESTAURANT
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Cosa Nostra
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rumours
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The Whitby Shop
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Curio Corner
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Asylum Antiquities
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Layla Rhode
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Furbellow & Co
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Esho Funi
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Venus Trading
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Hildoceras
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
