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Exploring Whitby Abbey & Dracula's Birthplace via the Pickering Steam Train
Updated: Jun 17
Our day trip exploring the North Yorkshire Moors – A ride on the Pickering Steam Train to Whitby, England’s Coastal Gem for Seafood Dining and Climbing the 199 Steps to Explore the Whitby Abbey, the birth place of the infamous Dracula.
After spending a lovely few days in the famous City of York, England we took a day trip to explore Whitby by way of the old Pickering Line Steam Train. This area of England is a place that Jenn was very much looking forward to exploring as it was her late Grandmother's favorite place to visit during her trips back home to England after migrating to Canada in the 1950's.
This seaside town in Yorkshire boasts its own port and is split by the River Esk. The local economy relies heavily on fishing and tourism, the later of course boosted by its epic views, the stunning Whitby Abbey and perhaps most famously its association with Dracula. But if this was not reason enough to visit, then you may also be enticed by its cobbled streets, vast array of independent stores, traditional English architecture and choice of restaurants.
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The town of Pickering and taking Pickering Steam Train to Whitby Abbey
Pickering Station is modelled on the traditional 1930's style and steam trains leave and arrive daily. It is operated by the North Yorkshire Moors Railway Conservation Trust which is entirely run by volunteers. Nestled in the old town of Pickering, the station itself features a traditional tea room and there is also a lovely food service on the train.
The trains are powered by coal and you can watch them from the bridge (where this photo was taken) and it is a fascinating sight as the trains pull in to the station. The station also has a car park with reasonable daily fees which was a very nice added bonus.
Not just popular for its steam trains, Pickering also features a regular market, picturesque old English streets, wonderful independent stores, tea rooms and a museum. Not to mention the spectacular Pickering Castle ruins, which has hosted no fewer than 6 Kings in its time and was built by William the Conqueror. We had an excellent time here!
The town of Whitby
Nestled on the rugged Yorkshire coast of England, Whitby is a charming seaside town steeped in history, maritime heritage, and literary allure. Its dramatic setting, with the River Esk snaking through its heart and the imposing ruins of Whitby Abbey perched atop the East Cliff, has captivated visitors for centuries.
Whitby is essentially divided into two distinct parts: the East Side, home to the historic abbey and the winding cobbled streets lined with traditional shops and pubs, and the West Side, centered around the harbor and known for its sandy beaches, bustling restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
Whitby's history stretches back to the 7th century when the Anglo-Saxon king Oswy granted land to a group of monks to establish a monastery. The abbey, later known as Whitby Abbey, became a prominent religious and cultural center, attracting scholars and pilgrims from across the region.
In the Middle Ages, Whitby emerged as a thriving port, its ships venturing out to catch herring and engage in whaling. The town's maritime heritage is still evident today, with its bustling harbor and traditional fishing boats.
Whitby holds a special place in the life of Captain James Cook, the renowned British explorer. Cook served his apprenticeship as a seaman in Whitby and later commissioned the HMS Endeavour, his ship for exploring the South Pacific, to be built in the town's shipyard. Whitby's haunting beauty and gothic atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for Bram Stoker's iconic novel, "Dracula." The imposing ruins of Whitby Abbey became the setting for Count Dracula's castle, forever linking the town with the legendary vampire.
The 199 Steps to St Mary's Church
We ventured towards the famous steps of the East Cliff, around a 15 minute walk from the train station. The 199 steps, known as the Church Stairs, lead up to St. Mary's and Whitby Abbey. Every 10th step is numbered in Roman Numerals so you do not need to count them! There are also several benches along the way if you need to rest, or simply just want to marvel at the incredible view.
Credited for the inspiration of Bram Stoker's Dracula and steeped in legendary history, you climb a hundred and ninety-nine steps and through the church grounds of St Mary's (below) to get to the Abbey. At the crest of the cliff, surrounded by the North Sea, the views really are a treat for the eyes!
St Mary's Church traces its origins to around 1110, making it one of the oldest churches in Whitby. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous alterations and additions, reflecting the town's changing fortunes and architectural styles. The church's most distinctive feature is its imposing square tower, dating back to the 12th century. The tower's crenellated parapet and sturdy construction add to the church's dramatic presence against the backdrop of the North Sea.
Step inside St Mary's Church, and you'll be greeted by a tranquil and airy interior, bathed in the soft glow of natural light streaming through the stained-glass windows. The church's interior dates primarily from the late 18th century, showcasing a blend of Georgian elegance and traditional Gothic elements.
St Mary's Church gained international fame through its association with Bram Stoker's iconic novel, "Dracula." The church's graveyard, with its weathered tombstones and eerie atmosphere, is believed to have inspired Stoker's description of Count Dracula's burial ground.
The incredible Whitby Abbey Ruins
An incredibly preserved ruin, it was a true privilege to be in such an enchanting place with so much history. At the cliff overlooking the ocean, it was a true place of inspiration for us and many others. Just ask Bram Stoker!
Abandoned since the days of Henry VIII, Whitby Abbey has been known more as a romantic and enchanting ruin than as the significant monastery it once was. The first religious buildings on the site were built around 657 and were destroyed by Danish invaders between 867 and 870.
The restored Gothic structure that took its place ultimately met its end in 1540 during the anti-Catholic rampages (known officially as he Dissolution of the Monasteries) which followed Henry VIII's separation from the Catholic Church. Additional damage was caused by German battleships in WWI, aiming for a nearby signal station.
The resulting ruins are atmospheric, beautiful and have inspired many writers and artists (like us!), famously including the legendary Bram Stoker, who used Whitby as the location for the first landing of Dracula in England. It is fitting, as it is said that it was here where the author himself first discovered the real Vlad the Impaler in 1890, in the pages of a book he checked out from a local library in Whitby.
Whitby Abbey was also home to the earliest known English poet Cædmon, who was also a monk. He has a memorial in the graveyard at St Mary's Church. This was such a cool fact to find out, given that we are both poets and it is also through poetry that we met!
The Fisherman's Wife
To finalise our visit we stopped by this wonderful restaurant which sits by the port facing the North Sea. With its stunning view, excellent service and great food we just HAD to mention it here. Check out their website for more and be sure to stop by when you travel to Whitby!
The Seafood Platter and Oysters were excellent! You can also choose from an extensive menu including traditional fish and chips. Check out their website for the full menu at thefishermanswife.co.uk
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