A Brief History of Whitby - Whitby Online

A Brief History of Whitby

In its youth Whitby played a central role in the creation and power structure of the early Church in the Middle Ages and has since grown and been shaped by advances in mining, shipping and commerce. Its unique rugged beauty where the cliffs meet the North sea and the quaint atmosphere found along the cobbled and eclectic streets has ensured Whitby's ability to inspire artists and authors, past and present alike and earnt the town a special place in the hearts of both residents and visitors.

Given here is a snap shot synopsis of Whitby's historical time line and places and events of interest and note. Click on the links to see more detailed information for specific points.

We are working on these pages all the time, so please keep coming back to see new information and pictures.

Prehistoric Whitby - Prehistoric Treasures

Whitby Jet

Medieval Whitby

Captain Cook

Whaling

William Scoresby

Whitby Ships and Shipping History

HMS Bark Endeavour

HMS Resolution

HMS Adventure

Rescues And Disasters At Sea

Whitby's Literary and Artistic Heritage

Bram Stoker (1847-1912)

Room 13 by Robert Swindells

Whitby Witches by Robin Jarvis

The Chinaman's Bastard by Amanda Taylor

Caedmon's Song by Peter Robinson

Possession: A Romance by A. S. Byatt

The Hundred and Ninety Nine Steps by Michel Faber

Whitby Myth and Folklore: Giant Wade

Whitby Myth and Folklore: Hob

Whitby Myth and Folklore: Barguest

Whitby Myth and Folklore: The Penny Hedge

Whitby Myth and Folklore: Phantom Coach

Whitby Regatta

Whitby Folk Week

Whitby Goth Festivals