How to Get to Whitby: A Travel Guide to Yorkshire’s Coastal Gem

Tucked along the rugged coastline of North Yorkshire, Whitby is a historic seaside town full of charm, fish and chips, gothic vibes, and unbeatable views. Whether you’re heading there for a weekend getaway, a literary pilgrimage to Dracula’s stomping grounds, or just a dose of salty sea air—getting to Whitby is all part of the adventure.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get to Whitby, no matter where you’re coming from.

🚗 By Car: The Scenic Route Awaits

Driving to Whitby gives you the most flexibility—and some seriously stunning views, especially if you come through the North York Moors National Park.

🗺 Routes:

  • From the South or West (Leeds, York, Sheffield):
    Take the A64 to Malton, then follow signs for Pickering and continue on the A169 over the moors.
  • From the North (Newcastle, Durham):
    Use the A19 or A1(M), then cut across to the A171, which hugs the coast and takes you straight into Whitby.

🚂 By Train: A Relaxing Journey

Whitby does have a train station, though the route often requires a change or two. For Whitby, train travel isn’t the quickest so if you are looking for a quicker route try combining train and bus.

From Major Cities:

  • From York: Take a train to Middlesbrough, then transfer to the Esk Valley Line for the scenic ride into Whitby.  Alternatively, you could catch the train to Malton or Scarborough (currently runs once per hour) then catch the bus across to Whitby (the bus route from Scarborough runs every 30 mins and the bus stop is right outside the train station
  • From Newcastle or Leeds: Take a train to Middlesbrough or Darlington, then connect to Whitby.
  • From Saltburn – Take the train to Saltburn, runs hourly from York then catch the x4 or 4 bus down to Whitby – the bus stop for this bus is literally outside our B&B
  • Some guests have also taken a taxi to Northallerton or Thirsk then it is one train from here to London.

🚌 By Bus or Coach:

National Express and other coach services (Flixbus) often stop in Middlesbrough or Scarborough, where you can transfer to a local Arriva bus into Whitby.

  • From Scarborough: Bus 93 or 94 runs regularly and takes around 1 hour along the coastal route.
  • From Middlesbrough or Saltburn: Bus 4 or X4 takes around 60-90 minutes.

🥾 For the Adventurers: On Foot or Bike

If you’re into walking or cycling holidays, Whitby is a highlight on several long-distance routes:

  • The Cleveland Way National Trail follows the coast into Whitby—stunning but challenging.
  • Coast to Coast Walkers often pass nearby as well.
  • We are happy to help you with luggage arrangements if you are doing a DIY walking holiday.  You could easily base yourself in our B&B and do at least 3 different walks a day heading out to Runswick Bay (9 miles one way), Robin Hoods Bay (6 miles). Grosmont (almost 7 miles)

  • 🏁 Final Thoughts
  • Whitby is one of those places where the journey becomes part of the story. Whether you’re gliding in on a train through misty moors, road-tripping across the countryside, or hopping a coastal bus, it’s all worth it once you see the abbey ruins on the cliff and smell the sea in the air.
  • Grab your camera, bring your appetite (seriously—the fish and chips are legendary), and enjoy the ride to this timeless coastal escape.

If you do need any help with journey planning either call us on 01947602214 or send us an email corra.lynn@outlook.com.

Thanks Michelle