The Best Hotels to Book in Whitby, England

It doesn’t get more enchanting than this 1516 Tudor manor house, which retains many original features, including beamed ceilings and carvings on the stone walls. Bedrooms continue this theme, sporting classical designs, with chesterfield sofas and original fireplaces. After your slumber in a sumptuous four-poster bed, head downstairs for a breakfast of Fortunes Whitby kippers.

This country house hotel, in the quaint rural village of Goathland, boasts suites with traditional decor and views over the Esk Valley. Book in for dinner at their award-winning Valley View restaurant, serving seasonal local produce from the North York Moors; highlights include pan-fried lamb rump and curried cod loin. Cocktail lover? Try the Moorlander – Whitby Gin, Pimm’s, lemon juice and gommes – before switching to champagne bellinis.

Dillons of Whitby is proud to call itself the only B&B in central Whitby that’s recommended by the Michelin Guide. This five-star, adults-only hotel cinched its recognition through an award-winning breakfast and characterful rooms, fit with all mod cons, which take inspiration from global destinations. The Toulouse, an ode to France, features French doors that open up to a private balcony, while the Zanzibar nods to the tropics with bright design details. All rooms are united by luxurious Molton Brown toiletries and fluffy towels and bathrobes.

Feel at home in this spacious, open-plan two-bedroom apartment, perfect for families or small groups. Whitby Harbour Retreat is an ideal base for exploring, with Whitby town, Sandsend Beach and many cultural landmarks nearby, including the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Whitby Lighthouse and Whitby Museum. Back at the peaceful retreat, do nothing but watch boats bob on the calm shores of the River Esk.

Choose this Grade II-listed former shipbuilder’s residence, built in 1785, for an eclectic Whitby stay. Each room at this Georgian hotel, near Pannett Park, is fit with chandeliers and big bright windows, and uniquely nods to White Linen Whitby’s maritime heritage through themes including adventure, discovery and upper deck. Expect thoughtful touches here from the friendly owners who are known to leave treats in the rooms.

History lover? You’ll be fascinated with this Georgian Manor, built in 1790, once home to Margaret Campion, the first female banker in Britain. The B&B dedicates its suites – including single, twin and superior rooms – to former Whitby residents, like Bram Stoker, author of Dracula, explorer Captain James Cook and seascape artist George Weatherill. Enjoy Arundel House’s harbour views, its position opposite Pannett Park and hearty breakfasts with vegan options.

Test your party’s trustworthiness with a visit to Ruswarp Hall’s snug honesty bar. This is one of the adult-only hotel’s highlights, along with its daily continental breakfast and close proximity to the train station. Visiting Whitby to clock up your daily steps? The hotel, occupying a 400-year-old Jacobean country hall, is just a stone’s throw from North Yorkshire Moors National Park, featuring almost 100 trails.

It’s said that British explorers Captain Cook and William Scoresby used to frequent the White Horse & Griffin, a rustic pub with a neighbouring Grade II-listed cottage. Make like the duo with a pint by the pub-hotel’s open fire, before tucking into posh Sunday lunch or honey and orange roast sea bass from its bistro-style restaurant, prided on using local ingredients. Plump for the Helga Maria room, outfitted with trendy bare brick walls and floor-length drapes.