The Coal Merchant’s House B&B

03/09/2026

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Join us at Whitby Abbey to see the breathtaking gothic ruins bathed in dramatic, glowing illuminations this Halloween.

02/09/2026

A lovely park. Home to Whitby Museum and a nice little cafe FLOCK Whitby ❤️

The newly replanted border on the main drive is looking spectacular

02/09/2026

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Farewell to Whitby’s Whalebones
We’ve been very fortunate to photograph Whitby’s Whalebones in some beautiful conditions over the years, from colourful sunsets and moonlit nights to those rare snowy days.
With this set of Whalebones taken down today and a new set due to take their place, it feels like a good time to look back at some of our favourite photographs of this much-loved Whitby landmark.
A few of our favourites from over the years can be found here:
https://thenorthyorkshiregallery.co.uk/gift-category/gallery/whitby-photos/whitby-whalebones-photos/

01/09/2026

Farewell to Whitby’s whale bones as landmark is removed from West Cliff. 🐋⚓🌊

One of Whitby’s most recognisable landmarks disappeared from the West Cliff today, Tuesday 1 September, marking the end of an era for a sight that has framed countless photographs of the town for over two decades.

The latest version of the famous whale bone arch was installed in 2002 after its twin town, Barrow in Alaska, gifted the bones to Whitby.

Since then, the towering arch has become part of the classic Whitby skyline, perfectly framing the view across the harbour towards Whitby Abbey and welcoming thousands of visitors to the West Cliff every year.

After years of exposure to the harsh North Sea weather, the bones have significantly deteriorated and reached the end of their life.

Today, they were removed ahead of a major £70,000 project that will see an ethical bronze replica installed in their place early next year.

The replacement will be created using moulds taken from the existing bones, allowing the distinctive shape and scale of the landmark to be recreated as closely as possible. A specially designed internal framework will also help the new structure withstand the exposed conditions on the West Cliff for decades to come.

Over time, the bronze will develop a natural patina while retaining the familiar appearance synonymous with Whitby.

Councillor Mark Crane described the removal as a “landmark day in the town’s recent history”, saying visitors have flocked to see and photograph the bones for more than 20 years.

Whitby Town Mayor Cllr Sandra Turner added that while it was sad to see the current bones reach the end of their life, the bronze replacement would ensure the landmark remained a focal point for future generations.

For many people, however, today will still feel a little strange.

After decades of overlooking Whitby from the West Cliff, the familiar whale bones are gone.

01/09/2026

Just a reminder, we offer a 15% discount on all our rooms for single occupancy ❤️

01/09/2026

👀 Whitby Literature Festival Thursday 19th Nov for 4 days. Check it out!

Downton Abbey and Paddington star Hugh Bonneville announced for Whitby Lit Fest 2026. 📚

Whitby Lit Fest has revealed a surprise headline guest for this November, with Hugh Bonneville joining an impressive 2026 line-up.

Best known as Robert Crawley in Downton Abbey and Mr Brown in the Paddington films, Bonneville will show audiences a different side to his career when he arrives in Whitby as a children’s author.

He will appear at Whitby Pavilion on Saturday 21 November at 1pm, introducing his latest book, Rory Sparkes and the Spy Who Loved Tea.

Aimed at readers aged seven to 11, the story follows young Rory Sparkes as he discovers coded messages, suspicious neighbours, and a very British spy conspiracy involving an unpleasant new brand of tea. ☕🕵️

The special family event will include storytelling, secret codes, and mischief. Bonneville will also discuss how he created the world of Rory Sparkes and take questions from younger audience members and their families.

His late addition strengthens a four-day programme for Whitby Lit Fest, running from Thursday 19 to Sunday 22 November 2026.

Other headline names heading to Whitby include Ann Cleeves, John Boyne, Joanne Harris, Si King, Elly Griffiths, Mark Billingham and Greta Scacchi, while Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae will host a special family event inspired by her picture book Put Your Records On.

The wider programme spans crime, fiction, history, politics, poetry, food, film and children’s literature, with events taking place at venues across Whitby.

Festival chair Lois Kirtlan described Bonneville’s appearance as a fantastic surprise addition and encouraged visitors to book early, especially for headline events and smaller venues.

📍 Hugh Bonneville – Whitby Pavilion, Northern Lights Suite
📅 Saturday 21 November 2026
🕐 1pm

Whitby Lit Fest officially begins on Thursday 19 November, kicking off four days of talks, performances, workshops, family events and literary encounters across the town.

31/08/2026

Online bookings now available until end of August 2027!

26/08/2026

Great venue. Watch out for announcements!

24/08/2026

A nice winter break for lovers of literature. Check it out 😀

Browse our programme below. Use the filtering options to refine by date, price or venue. Events will start promptly at the advertised time, so please arrive in plenty of time to find a seat and purchase any refreshments.

20/08/2026

Last night we went on a wildlife cruise with Whitby Coastal Cruises. Highly recommended, we saw minke whales and lots of seals! Followed by a lobster dinner at Tide By Trenchers, great service and a lovely meal ❤️