Whitby Abbey is set high on the cliffs above the harbour of this picturesque fishing village.
The Abbey was established on an ancient holy site. This was once the burial place of kings and also the inspiration for saints. The first religious community was founded at Whitby by Abbess Hilda in 657.
Whitby Abbey was the home of the first English poet, Caedmon.
The ruins seen today include a Benedictine church dating from the 13th and 14th centuries with a splendid three-tiered choir and north transept.
Bram Stoker used this site for a scene in his novel Dracula.
Today Whitby Abbey is cared for by English Heritage
Whitby Abbey Opening Times2008: 21 Mar-30 Sep: 10:00-18:00 Mon-Sun. Oct-Mar: 10:00-16:00 Mon & Thur-Sun. Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan
Tel: 01947 603568 Whitby Abbey Website
