Last week I had the chance to spend a few days in the beautiful town of Whitby and visit the neighbouring Robin Hoods Bay and Staithes. For the trip I was joined by James Popsys, whose work you need to check out here www.jamespopsys.com.

Getting to Whitby is very easy however it is out of the way so will require some changes if coming by train. From London it took just over 5 hours with no delays and a one way ticket cost around £80 off peak so not the cheapest.

We based ourselves in Whitby and then used the bus to visit Robin Hoods Bay and Staithes. You can catch the bus from the main station next to the train station. Parking at these locations can be a nightmare so I suggest using the bus. In Whitby we stayed in a place called Lobster Hall which was in the center but just out of the way enough to not deal with the noise and traffic. It also had its own car park and a great view out of the window. It was about a 5 minute walk from the center. Food wise there are plenty of cafes and fish & chip shops. If you like curry, I can recommend Passage To India right next to the train station.

Whitby can be split into two sections. The main town with all the attractions and the quieter hillier side across the bridge. Both sides have a great pier you can explore and plenty of tight small streets to get lost in. The main side also has a great long beach you can explore when the tide is out. In total 1-2 days here is plenty.

I found Robin Hoods Bay more interesting and picturesque. It is a short 15 minute bus journey however I suggest arriving early. Grab the X93 or X94 from the main station. Any time after 10 it will be packed and there will be a substantial line. As you get off at the top, start making your way down however I suggest ducking into any small alleyway or road you see. They can be a bit of a maze but are so cool and provide ample photo opportunities. As you keep heading down I suggest stopping by Tea, Toast & Post and enjoying an hour or so in this incredible cafe.

From then on follow the main road which will loop round and you start heading back up the hill. As always nip into any alleyway or side street you see and explore those too. I would say half a day is enough here or a full day if you stop for lunch, chill on the beach or really take your time.

The next local spot is called Staithes. Head back to the main Whitby bus stop and get the X4 bus. It is a longer journey at around 30 minutes or so. Staithes is by far the smallest of the locations and has a lovely small harbour with a cosy pub. There isn’t much here so I would leave it as the last stop just to see the harbour. In total a few hours here is plenty.