Whitby Harbour Live Cam

Located on the east coast of Yorkshire facing the North Sea


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Hosted by:
  • Whitby Lifeboat Station
  • The Fish Pier - Whitby
  • North Yorkshire YO22 4DD - United Kingdom
  • 01947 602 216
  • [email protected]
  • https://www.whitbylifeboat.org.uk/

Whitby Harbour History

Whitby Harbour is located in the town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, England, and has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. The harbour has played an important role in the town's development and has been used for fishing, trade, and transportation throughout its history.

The earliest record of Whitby Harbour dates back to the 7th century when the abbey was founded by Saint Hilda. The harbour was initially used to support the abbey's fishing industry and to provide a safe haven for ships seeking refuge from the North Sea. Over time, the harbour became an important trading port, exporting wool, grain, and other goods to Europe and the rest of the world.

During the Middle Ages, Whitby Harbour continued to grow in importance as a trading port, and in the 16th century, it became a center for the whaling industry. Whaling ships from Whitby were among the first to venture into the Arctic and Antarctic oceans, and the town became known for its expertise in the whaling industry.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Whitby Harbour saw significant expansion and modernization, with new piers and warehouses built to accommodate larger ships and increased trade. In the mid-19th century, the arrival of the railway in Whitby further enhanced the town's accessibility and economic prosperity.

Today, Whitby Harbour remains an active fishing port, and its rich history is celebrated through museums, festivals, and events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the historic piers and quays, stroll along the scenic waterfront, and learn about the harbour's fascinating past at the Whitby Museum and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum.

Whitby Harbour Top Tourist Attractions

Whitby Harbour is a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of attractions and activities that highlight its rich history and natural beauty. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in and around Whitby Harbour:

  • Whitby Abbey: The ruins of the historic abbey overlook the harbour and offer stunning views of the town and coastline. The abbey dates back to the 7th century and is a major landmark in Whitby.
  • Captain Cook Memorial Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and voyages of Captain James Cook, who was born in nearby Marton and began his seafaring career in Whitby.
  • Whitby Museum: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Whitby, with exhibits on local geology, archaeology, and social history.
  • Whalebone Arch: Located on the West Cliff, this arch is made from the jawbones of a whale and is a popular spot for photos and selfies.
  • The Dracula Experience: This interactive attraction offers a spooky tour of the town's connection to Bram Stoker's novel, "Dracula."
  • The 199 Steps: These steps lead from the harbour up to St. Mary's Church and the ruins of Whitby Abbey. The steps offer panoramic views of the harbour and town.
  • The North Yorkshire Moors Railway: This heritage railway runs from Whitby to Pickering, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a nostalgic journey back in time.
  • Whitby Beach: The town's sandy beach is popular with families and offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
  • Whitby Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse sits on the West Pier and offers panoramic views of the harbour and town.
  • Fishing: Visitors can watch the local fishing boats come and go from the harbour, or even take a fishing trip themselves to catch their own fresh seafood.

Whitby Harbour Climate

Whitby Harbour, being located in North Yorkshire, experiences a temperate maritime climate. This means that the climate is generally mild with relatively small temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The average annual temperature in Whitby Harbour is around 9°C (48°F).

Summers are typically mild with temperatures averaging around 17°C (63°F) in July and August, the warmest months of the year. Winters are also mild with temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F) in January, the coldest month of the year. It is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing during the winter months, but snow is relatively rare.

Whitby Harbour also receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being October and November. Visitors to Whitby Harbour should be prepared for the possibility of rain at any time of year and should pack appropriate clothing and footwear.

Overall, the climate in Whitby Harbour is generally mild and temperate, making it a pleasant destination to visit at any time of year.

Whitby Harbour Geography

Whitby Harbour is located on the east coast of England, in the town of Whitby, North Yorkshire. The harbour is situated at the mouth of the River Esk, which flows through the town and out into the North Sea. The harbour is sheltered by two piers, known as the East Pier and the West Pier, which protect it from the rough waters of the North Sea.

Whitby Harbour is surrounded by cliffs, with the ruins of Whitby Abbey perched on the top of the East Cliff overlooking the harbour. The town of Whitby is located on both sides of the River Esk, with the harbour situated on the east side. The town is a popular tourist destination and features a range of shops, restaurants, and attractions, many of which are located within walking distance of the harbour.

To the north of Whitby Harbour lies the North York Moors National Park, which is known for its rugged moorland, forests, and scenic landscapes. The national park is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts, and offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.

Overall, Whitby Harbour is located in a picturesque and scenic part of North Yorkshire, surrounded by natural beauty and offering a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.