We spent a weekend in Whitby with the kids and came away really glad we’d gone, but also very aware that it is not the easiest place to visit with little ones.

It is beautiful, full of character, and packed with things to see, but it is also very hilly, full of steps, and definitely a place where you need to pace yourself if you are visiting with children.

We went in October, so it was a bit chilly, but that actually suited Whitby well. You just need to wrap up warm.

The steps and the abbey

No trip to Whitby feels complete without doing the steps up to Whitby Abbey.

We tackled them slowly with plenty of stops, and the views at the top are worth it. Older children will enjoy the sense of achievement, but it is not ideal if you are using a pram. There are a lot of steps and the climbs are steep, so a carrier is much easier if you have one.

The abbey itself is impressive and atmospheric, especially with the sea behind it, and it is easy to spend some time just walking around and taking it all in.

Whitby walking and the sculpture trail

One thing we really enjoyed was walking around the town and following the heritage trail, which includes nine sculptures dotted around Whitby.

It turns the walk into a bit of a hunt and gives children something to look out for as you explore. It also helps break up the walking, which is useful in a town that involves a lot of uphill stretches.

Fish and chips and the arcades

Of course, we could not go to Whitby without fish and chips from Magpie Cafe. It is busy for a reason, and it lived up to the hype.

The arcades were also a hit with the kids and a good way to warm up when the weather turned cooler. They add a bit of classic seaside fun and do not require much planning.

Pannett Park and the beach

Pannett Park was a really nice surprise. It gave the kids space to run around and burn off some energy, which is much needed after walking around the town.

We also spent time on the beach. Even in October, it was still enjoyable, especially with warm coats on. Buckets and shells kept the kids busy, and the cooler weather meant it was quieter and calmer.

Things to know before you go with kids

Whitby is very hilly and full of steps. A pram can be a struggle in places, so a carrier is much easier if you have one.

October was chilly but manageable. Wrap up warm and plan for wind.

Take things slowly. Whitby is not a place to rush around with children.

Plan breaks. Parks, cafés, and the beach help balance out the walking.

Would we recommend Whitby with kids?

Yes, but with realistic expectations.

Whitby is brilliant for exploring, history, and atmosphere, and there is plenty to keep kids interested. It just requires a bit more effort than flatter seaside towns, especially if you are visiting with a pram.

If you go prepared, take your time, and accept that it is a slower paced visit, Whitby makes a really memorable family weekend.