Tuesday 8 June 2010

Welcome to Whitby By Alan Moore Platinum Quality Author

Dracula, smugglers, golden beaches and kippers: where else but Whitby? Much more than just a quintessentially-English fishing port, Whitby's remote location on the far side of the North Yorkshire Moors has enabled it to preserve much of its unique identity and heritage into the 21st century.

While tourism may long since have replaced the sea as the town's main source of income, Whitby's inhabitants have lost none of the independence and pride that are central to their character and to Whitby's enduring appeal.

Situated on a geological fault, where the River Esk bisects the otherwise uninterrupted cliffs of the North Yorkshire coastline, Whitby's origins can be traced back at least 1350 years to the founding of Saint Hilda's Abbey in 657AD. The abbey was setup by Hilda at the behest of King Oswy of Northumbria, who upon winning the Battle of Winwaed had vowed that he would found a number of monasteries throughout his kingdom. As part of this vow, he gave his daughter, Aelfleda, to the monastic life.

The success of the original abbey was to be short-lived, as in 867 the abbey was sacked by the Danes, who were taking control of large parts of the region. Whitby survived this disruption, however, and in 1078 the abbey was rebuilt by the Normans to survive until 1539, when Henry VIII's policies forced St Hilda's Abbey to close for the final time.

In the centuries since its religious importance declined, Whitby has progressed from a small fishing port to a trading port of some regional importance, and finally to a major UK tourist destination.

Today, much of 18th and 19th century Whitby has been preserved and restored, and the town has a plethora of old and new attractions which draw visitors back, year after year.

Some of England's finest sandy beaches vie with Victorian gothic buildings, the legend of Count Dracula, major traditional music festivals, the religious heritage of the abbey and the spectacular beauty of the Yorkshire Moors to define Whitby's appeal. In truth, the town that was once Captain Cook's home has many assets, and it is the combination of these that give Whitby its unique and intriguing character.

Alan Moore invites you to join his free email newsletter The Whitby Bite:
http://www.dracula-in-whitby.com/whitby-bite.html where you can learn more about the real Dracula and his connection to Whitby, Yorkshire's unique vampire town.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Moore

Whitby North Yorkshire England

Whitby Certainly is an Old Town With a Deep History and Still Retains Lots of Character Today By Alan Illingworth Davidson

In 656, in Anglo-Saxon times, Whitby was actually called Streonshal. This was when Osway was the Christian King of Northumbria and founded Whitby Abbey under its first Abbess, Hilda.

Over two hundred years later in 867, the monastery was brought to the ground by Viking raiders and was not rebuilt for over 200 years until 1078. It was during these times that the town actually established its current name of Whitby (from "white settlement" in Old Norse). Jumping much further ahead in time to the 18th century, Whitby became a town which was primarily focused around shipbuilding and whaling, as well as trading in Alum and the now famous Whitby jet. Whitby Abbey is one of the town's biggest tourist attractions and, situated on the East Cliff overlooking Whitby, provides fantastic panoramic views over the town, the harbour and beyond towards Sandsend.

One of the most famous characters associated with Whitby is Dracula, the central character of a book written by Bram Stoker, the famous author who was staying in Whitby at the time of writing. Dracula is widely considered to be one of the most famous Gothic figures ever created. Stoker was lodging on the Royal Crescent in Whitby whilst writing Dracula. In fact there is a blue plaque to commemorate this fact on one of the large imposing Victorian terraced properties.

It is well known that Stoker was influenced by the local surroundings whilst writing the book, featuring passages such as the ghostly ship Demeter pulling ashore with the huge black wolf pouncing from the deck into the darkness. Stoker based both the ship and the beast from ideas while talking to local townsfolk, who told him of the Russian ship Dmitri which, like the ship from the book, had previously been beached in the town's harbour. Local folklore often told of Barguest, the huge black phantom hound which was said to prowl the Yorkshire Moors, with a particular preference for the Whitby area. It was in the Whitby library that Stoker first came across the name Dracula, when he borrowed a book with the title An Account of the Principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia, written in 1820 by William Wilson. This book included in one of its paragraphs Voivode Dracula which is the Voivode Dracula character in battle with the Turks. One item in particular caught the attention of Stoker: Dracula in the Wallachian dialect means Devil!

There is also a statue on the West Cliff of one of the town's most famous inhabitants, Captain James Cook. All four of Cook's ships were built in Whitby: Endeavour, Resolution, Adventure and Discovery and it was from Whitby that James Cook embarked on his journey to discover Australia.

The Captain Cook Museum is situated in a 17th-century house very close to Whitby Harbour, the location is where, as an apprentice, he had lodgings. It was whilst living in Whitby that Cook trained to be a seaman which ultimately led to his epic voyages of discovery.

So Whitby has much to attract tourists who like history, or merely enjoy the seaside town. It has numerous themed weekends throughout the year, such as the two Goth weekends, which see the town overtaken by people of all ages dressed in their fine black regal costumes. If you would like to see the up-and-coming events scheduled for the town; please look at the Whitby calendar of events.

Tourist information, articles and news for Whitby.

Beautiful old Fishermans cottage for self catering holidays Whitby Holiday Cottage.

Thank you,

Alan Davidson

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Illingworth_Davidson

Alan Illingworth Davidson - EzineArticles Expert Author

Things to Do in the Historic Town of Whitby, Yorkshire. By Thomas Paylor

Whitby boats trips are a great way to see the town

You get a fantastic view of the town from the sea. The views of Whitby when you enter the harbour, facing the town are unique. You get great views of the Abbey and the west cliff and taking a boat trip you also get to enjoy a good bit of Whitby sea air.

One of the best boat trips has to be a trip on the replica Captain Cook Endeavour, you can book this trip on the west side of town, opposite the amusement arcades.

Have a day fishing

You can fish from many spots in and around the Whitby area. There are several species of fish available for you to catch depending on the time of year.There is no fee payable or licence requirement for shore and rock fishing.

Good baits can include lugworms, mussels and spinners Whitby has 2 good fishing tackle shops, these supply bait, rods, reels and accessories. Locals believe that peeler crab is a good bait in the summer, although this is hard to find.

Go fishing from a boat

Boat fishing is very popular in Whitby. Be prepared to be boat fishing for several hours, these trips are usually more than two hours long, and in some cases, you can be out for up to eight hours. Ask in the local fishing tackle shops for more information on these boat fishing trips. Talk to the 'professionals' on the quayside before you book. Always make sure that the required equipment is included in your package cost. If your away with a group then these boat fishing trips can be great fun.

Fishing from Whitby Piers

Whitby's West Pier is a delight for any summer angler, with spinners and lures seemingly favourites amongst those 'in the know.' Check the tide timetables before you set off, most of the fish are caught at high tide. In the autumn months, bigger fish such as cod can be caught from the pier. Anglers are prohibited from fishing into the harbour from the West Pier.

Go fossil hunting

Searching for fossils is a great way to spend a few hours while in Whitby. You can find Whitby Jet, reptiles and other ammonites while searching through the rocks and cliff faces. You can find several fossil hotspots in and around Whitby. Be wary of falling rock faces and shard rocks, take extra care with children. Before you go fossiling, make a note of the tide times, and always get back to the safety of land before high tide, at many places you can get cut off from the main beach at high tide.

Take a visit to the historic Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey dominates the town of Whitby from the east cliff. Its a great reminder of the early power of the church, a great piece of architecture.

Climb the 199 steps to the abbey to enjoy views of the unspoilt beauty of Whitby Harbour, the Esk Valley and the glorious Yorkshire coastline. The Abbey ruins themselves are a great inspiration to many people, even Bram Stoker, who based part of his well known novel "Dracula" on the inspiration from Whitby Abbey.

If that sounds little hairy scary, you could always have a stroll around one of the delightful gardens surrounding Whitby Abbey, not to mention one of the UK's best Youth Hostels next door to the Abbey, certainly Whitby Abbey is one of the most loved UK attractions.

Whitby Museum is full of history

The Museum is an independent Museum with many fantastic displays. Whitby Museum contains a wide varierty of displays that will keep both Adults and Children interested. Some claim that the museum is one of the most comprehensive in Yorkshire.

Amoung the collections are ancient fossils, jet, Capt. James Cook and William Scoresby (whaling & scientific instruments) exhibits, many model ships, natural history, archaeology, bygones, costumes, toys and dolls, ethnography, samplers, ceramics, militaria, coins and medals, as well as the famed 'Hand of Glory' and much more.

Click here for more information on Whitby

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Paylor

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Whitby By John A Holland

Whitby is a beautiful coastal resort with plenty to see and do, and littered with unique gems and treasures guaranteed to make your stay here as memorable and special as possible. Most Whitby caravan parks are located near to the main attractions of Whitby and Whitby town itself is easily accessible either on foot or by car. If you are planning on staying at a Whitby caravan park, camping resort or at any other accommodation in Whitby, below is a list of the top 10 things for you to do in Whitby.

1. Visit Whitby Abbey - Resting on the cliff tops above the picturesque coastal town, Whitby Abbey is an unmissable landmark and must be explored. Now in ruins, the Abbey is said to have been the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. Be sure to climb or descend the 199 famous steps of Whitby.

2. Enjoy a Boating/Fishing Trip - While visiting the beautiful Whitby harbour; why not enjoy a boating or fishing trip around the unique Yorkshire coastline. At various times of the year, seals have been spotted around this area so be sure to take your binoculars!

3. Play a Picturesque Game of Golf - Whitby Golf Club boasts some beautiful sights from its cliff top location. Both amateurs and experienced players will enjoy this challenging and unique golf course.

4. Crabbing in Whitby Harbour - A cheap and cheerful pastime for the family to enjoy. Crabbing in Whitby is great fun and can keep you entertained for hours while you search for those little critters.

5. Whitby Goth Weekend - This is a true spectacle not to be missed. Get dressed up as Goths and enjoy some of the most unusual events around. Visitors flock from all over the UK and world to witness Whitby's world famous Goth Weekend. This year's Goth Weekend takes place on 22nd-25th April 2010 and 28th-31st October 2010.

6. Shopping - Usually a word most men dread to hear but the shops in Whitby can be a real treasure trove of hidden gems and quirky gifts. From joke shops and old sweet shops, to hand crafted gifts, you're sure to find a special souvenir for your loved ones in Whitby.

7. Whitby Regatta - Visit Whitby in August 2010 from the 21st-23rd to see the delights of the Whitby Regatta. This special event sees the town transformed into a hub of excitement as various rowing and sports races take place.

8. Fish and Chips - Unless you're vegetarian, enjoying a fish and chip tea in Whitby is a must. Expect only the freshest fish caught from the very Yorkshire coastline itself.

9. Coastal Walk - Many Whitby caravan parks that are located on the cliffs above Whitby town have paths and walkways leading down to the Whitby coastline and beaches. Enjoy a leisurely and peaceful walk and take in some of the magnificent sights and fresh sea air.

10. Whitby Museum - if visiting a museum is more your thing then be sure to visit The Whitby Museum which was founded in 1823. Muse over some incredible artefacts and enjoy the distinctive Edwardian/Victorian ambiance.

Many people travelling to Whitby stay in camping sites or Whitby caravan parks which are well equipped to look after tourists and visitors.

Middlewood Farm Holiday Park - Family friendls camping and caravan accommodation in Whitby, North Yorkshire. Set in beautiful countryside close to the beach, Robin Hoods Bay and Whitby.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_A_Holland

Whitby - A Historic Town With Contemporary Style By Thomas Paylor

I have been lucky to have had my parents grow up in Whitby, leading to fantastic family holidays and weekend breaks to the charming seaside town. Many of my childhood memories of Whitby consist of fishing, crabbing and fossiling. Whitby has recently become very well known due to national press exposure and been rates the best UK day break in 2008.

Well placed in stunning scenery within the North York Moors National Park, Whitby has become a popular tourist town that combines traditional values with contemporary style. A wave of fancy bars, restaurants and fancy cafes sit on cobbled streets, wedged in between traditional chippies and historic jet makers. You can still see the fish being brought in from the boats if your an early riser. Having scrutinized the town revolutionize over the years, Whitby now has something for everyone

Whitby has a deep and rich history, stories of ghosts and ghouls, Dracula, hidden riches, Whitby jet, Captain Cook, and the list goes on. A quick walk around the town and you will get an insight into the towns history. One of the most well known visitors of Whitby is recent times was Bram Stoker, who went on to write his global best seller Dracula, taking from Whitby Abbey and the surrounding area. Today there are many celebrations to enjoy in Whitby, some of these include The Whitby Regatta and the famous Whitby Goth Weekends, with happen twice a year.

Tourisim is booming today in Whitby, recently converted by national TV and Press, and voted the best UK day break in 2008, the town continues to develop its contribution for the growing visitor numbers. I would profoundly recommend you dig a little deeper into what Whitby has to offer.

Whitby has no end of types of accommodations available for your stay in Whitby. Depending on your needs, there are a wide diversity of Bed and Breakfasts, Guest Houses, Hotels, Cottages and Self Catering options available. Some of my favorites are published below:

The Hudsons Bed and Breakfast in Whitby
Hudsons is a relaxed bed and breakfast offering dashing accommodation in Whitby, at a competitive price. Hudsons is ideally situated with Whitby's beaches, shops, bars and restaurants all a mere two minute walk away. As one of the central bed and breakfasts in Whitby, Hudsons is the ideal choice for exploring both the coast and country surrounding Whitby.

Queensland Hotel and Bed and Breakfast in Whitby
Ideally situated on the popular West Cliff in Whitby, close to all amenities; the Spa Theatre; the Royal Gardens; Children`s paddling pool; Crazy Golf; Tennis; Pitch and Putt; Boating Lake; Beaches; Town Shops and the 18 hole Links Golf Course. The Queensland is clean and friendly and one of my favorite places to stay in Whitby.

The online Whitby Guide has a huge directory of Whitby Accommodation to ensure you find the perfect place for your stay in Whitby. Ive seen many websites on the internet that give a good overview of whats happening in Whitby and the best places to visit, and the Whitby Guide seems to be very good.

If you struggling for ideas regarding where to take the family this summer, why not consider Whitby. I for one will be making several trips this year, sampling the great seafood and sea air. I even hope to see a vampire there one day or even bump into Dracula himself.

Whitby, by Thomas Paylor

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Paylor