Whitby Abbey Houses

Perched dramatically on the cliff top, Whitby Abbey is a magnificent reminder of the early church's power and dedication. It contained the shrine to the abbey's founder, St Hilda (Hild during her lifetime), who died in AD680 and symbolised the continuing Christian tradition in the north. The abbey's gaunt and moving remains have associations as diverse as Victorian jewellery, whaling and Count Dracula.

Whitby Abbey was founded in the seventh century on cliffs by the sea; its haunting remains can still be seen from the sea and are a testament to the Golden Age of Northumbria. A new visitor centre now nestles within the walls of the Cholmley's house as part of a major project encompassing the whole of the headland. It houses archaeological material excavated at Whitby, as well as computer-generated images revealing how the headland has changed over time. Spectacular audio-visual displays recreate the medieval abbey and the 17th-century house, its interiors and gardens. Visitors can also gain an insight into the people who have lived in Whitby, from St Hild to Bram Stoker, author of Dracula.