Whitby Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Whitby Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Whitby packs in loads of attractions despite its small size. The ruins of Whitby Abbey (YO22 4JT, open 10am-5pm Apr-Oct, 10am-4pm Nov-Mar) dominate the East Cliff and score 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum (YO22 4BE) houses exhibits in the actual house where Cook lived as an apprentice and gets 4.5/5 from visitors.

I always recommend the Whitby Museum (YO21 1QG) which holds an odd collection including a "hand of glory" - a mummified human hand once used by burglars who believed it would render homeowners unconscious. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and costs just £6 for adults.

The beach gets busy in summer but remains stunning year-round. We think the West Pier offers the best views of the town, especially at sunset when you can snap photos of the abbey silhouetted against the sky before heading back to your hot tub.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Whitby almost as much as their owners do! The main beach has seasonal restrictions (banned May-September), but Tate Hill beach allows dogs all year. The Whitby to Sandsend coastal path gives your four-legged friend a good 2.5-mile stretch of the legs with sea views throughout.

Many cottages with hot tubs accept pets - just check the listing carefully. The Duke of York pub (YO22 4BH) welcomes dogs and serves good food. Sanders Yard Bistro (YO22 4DW) not only allows dogs but offers them treats and water bowls.

The Whitby area has loads of dog-friendly walks. We recommend the old railway line to Scarborough which forms part of the 'Cinder Track' - it's flat, traffic-free and runs for 21 miles if you're feeling ambitious. Your dog will be knackered while you enjoy your evening hot tub session!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Whitby

The 199 Steps up to St Mary's Church and Whitby Abbey give you the best views in town. Count them as you climb (there are actually 199, we've checked) and catch your breath at the top while looking over the red-roofed town. The graveyard at St Mary's inspired Bram Stoker when writing Dracula - look for the weathered gravestones leaning at odd angles.

Whitby Harbour remains a working port with fishing boats bringing in their catch daily. The swing bridge connects the east and west sides of town and opens regularly to let taller boats through. Fish and chips from the Magpie Café (YO21 3PU) are a must - they've been serving since 1939 and still get queues down the street.

The North York Moors Railway (YO21 1YN) runs steam trains from Whitby to Pickering. The 24-mile journey takes you through stunning moorland scenery. In summer, they run services with historic carriages and engines that featured in the Harry Potter films. Book ahead as it's popular and costs around £38 return for adults.

Is Whitby good for families?

Yes! Kids love the beach, fossil hunting, boat trips and the Dracula connection. Many cottages with hot tubs are family-friendly with enclosed gardens. The Whitby Pavilion often runs family shows and there's mini-golf on West Cliff.

When is the best time to visit Whitby?

June-September offers the best weather but bigger crowds. April-May and October have fewer tourists but can still be pleasant. Whitby Goth Weekend happens twice yearly (April and October) and transforms the town - book well ahead if you want to visit then.

Can I park at my cottage in Whitby?

It depends. Old town cottages rarely have parking due to narrow streets. Most provide permits for nearby car parks. Properties on the outskirts typically have private parking. Check the listing details carefully.

What's the best area to stay in Whitby?

The old town (east side) has the most character but steeper streets. West Cliff is flatter with Victorian buildings. For hot tub cottages with sea views, look at properties on the cliff tops or in nearby villages like Sandsend or Robin Hood's Bay.

Is Whitby expensive?

It's pricier than some Yorkshire towns but offers good value compared to southern UK destinations. Eating out ranges from cheap fish and chips (£8-12) to fancy restaurants (£25+ per head). Cottages with hot tubs command a premium but are worth it for the extra luxury.

Do I need a car in Whitby?

No, but it helps. The town centre is walkable and buses serve the surrounding area. Trains connect to Middlesbrough. A car lets you explore the North York Moors and coastal villages more easily.

Helpful links:

1. Official Whitby Tourism Information
2. Whitby Abbey Visitor Information
3. North Yorkshire Moors Railway