Local Area Information

Where You’ll Be

Briggswath, Whitby, North Yorkshire, England

Saltwick is nestled in the peaceful village of Briggswath, situated on the edge of the stunning North York Moors National Park. Tucked away in the Esk Valley, this tranquil location is just three miles from the heart of Whitby, making it easy to enjoy both countryside calm and the bustle of a vibrant seaside town.

A short walk away in the nearby village of Ruswarp, guests can enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the river, hiring a rowing boat or canoe. If a hearty meal is more your style, The Plough Inn in Sleights – just a few minutes’ drive – offers a delicious traditional pub menu.

Exploring Whitby

Whitby is a coastal gem full of character and history. Meander through its narrow cobbled streets lined with boutiques, pubs, and seafood restaurants, or spend the day on the Blue Flag West Cliff Beach, complete with colourful beach huts and classic seaside arcades.

Climb the iconic 199 steps to St. Mary’s Church, then explore the hauntingly beautiful Whitby Abbey, which famously inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. This gothic town continues to draw visitors back year after year thanks to its charm, heritage, and natural beauty.

Getting Around

Saltwick offers easy access to all that Whitby and the surrounding area have to offer:

Sleights Train Station is just a few minutes away and connects via the Esk Valley Line to Middlesbrough, passing through charming villages like Danby, Glaisdale, and Grosmont.
The Arriva 95 bus route runs through Briggswath with stops at Lealholm and Whitby, providing convenient public transport for guests who’d prefer not to drive.
The area also offers easy access to walking trails, including the Esk Valley Walk and the Cinder Track, both leading directly into Whitby.

Things to Do in Whitby

Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a full week, there’s no shortage of things to enjoy:

🏰 Visit Whitby Abbey

Perched atop the East Cliff, this ruined 7th-century monastery offers dramatic views and a rich history, as well as being the literary birthplace of Dracula.

🦀 Try Crabbing in the Harbour

A favourite local pastime — grab a line, some bait, and see what you can catch along the quayside.

📚 Discover Whitby’s Literary Past

Whitby has inspired countless writers. From Bram Stoker, who found the name "Dracula" in the town’s library, to Elizabeth Gaskell, Lewis Carroll, and even Charles Dickens — all have found inspiration here.

🧛‍♂️ Experience The Dracula Experience

This fun and spooky attraction brings the legend to life through animated scenes, special effects, and live actors — great for all ages.

Where to Eat & Drink in Whitby

Whitby is a foodie haven with options for every taste:

Harry’s Bar on Pier Road – seafood and cocktails with a view
Ditto – friendly service and fantastic food in a cosy setting
Abbey Wharf – enjoy drinks or dinner on the terrace with harbour views
The Black Horse on Church Street – traditional pub with “Yapas” (Yorkshire Tapas), and dog-friendly too

Whether it’s fish and chips on the pier, a seafood feast, or a quiet pint in a historic pub, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Saltwick Bay – A Hidden Gem Nearby

Just a 6-minute drive or a scenic 1.5-mile walk from Whitby, Saltwick Bay offers breathtaking views, fascinating geology, and rich maritime history. The bay is a favourite spot for:

Fossil hunting – with discoveries including ammonites, jet, and even marine reptile remains
Exploring shipwrecks, including the mysterious Admiral Von Tromp, and the historic HMHS Rohilla
Sunrise and sunset photography – known for its “double sun” effect during late spring and summer

Caution: Please check tide times before visiting Saltwick Bay, and avoid walking near the cliff base due to rockfall risks.

Rich in History & Legends

Saltwick Bay and the surrounding coastline are steeped in stories:

HMHS Rohilla ran aground in 1914 just offshore, and a dramatic rescue saved many of its 229 passengers.
The SS Brentwood, a trawler sunk by a German mine in 1917, still lies below the waves, now a popular dive site.
A Jurassic marine crocodile skeleton and fossilized footprints have also been discovered here, making it a must-see for history and geology lovers alike.

Once is Never Enough

Whitby and its surrounding villages offer a perfect mix of coast, countryside, history, and heritage. Whether you're coming for a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or a relaxing retreat with friends, one thing is certain:

You’ll fall in love with Whitby – and you’ll want to come back.