"The most beautiful" seaside town in the UK has been named one of the best places to visit

People who are planning their next trip don't have to spend hundreds of pounds getting to the airport. The UK has some stunning places full of history that are perfect for a weekend or day trip.

An added bonus is that they can be reached in just a few hours because the country is small. Whitby is a charming riverside town in North Yorkshire, located at the mouth of the River Esk and famous for its scenic beauty. This is reported by gazettelive.co.

The town offers a stunning view of the ocean from the cliff. Whitby is situated next to the North York Moors National Park and boasts sparkling golden beaches, winding cobblestone streets, and a picturesque harbor. According to TimeOut magazine, it has the best fish and chips in the UK, and according to the Mirror newspaper, it has the best seafood restaurants in the region.

Whitby has been recognized as one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the UK by McCarthy Stone and named one of the best seaside towns to visit by Express readers. This seaside town holds a special place in the history of British literature.

Firstly, it is the place from where the famous explorer Captain James Cook first set sail before his travels to Australia and New Zealand. His name inspired James Barry to create Peter Pan's main enemy, Captain Hook. Harry Potter fans will also recognize the Goathland train station in Whitby as it is Hogsmeade in the movie Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone when the train first arrives at Hogwarts.

However, Whitby is best known for its connection to Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. The author was inspired to write the book during a visit in 1890 when he first saw the Gothic Whitby Abbey. In the novel, Dracula travels from Transylvania to England on his ship, which docks in Whitby. The town celebrates this connection by hosting Gothic Weekend twice a year, in April and October, when the narrow streets are crowded with people in swirling black costumes.

Whitby hosts many other, slightly less spooky events throughout the year. These include a family pirate festival in August and a steampunk weekend in February and July, where participants dress in Victorian style. Whitby also hosts two major music festivals: the Blues, Rhythm, and Rock Festival in October and Whitby Folk Week in August. Performers come to town to organize concerts, dances, ceilidhs, and other fun events.

There is plenty to do in this amazing seaside town outside of the festival days. One of the first things most travelers do is visit the ruins of Whitby Abbey. You can also see the Captain Cook Memorial Museum and even take a boat trip on a replica of the HMS Endeavour.

Don't forget to visit the two-mile-long Whitby Sands Beach, known for its caramel-colored sand. It's surrounded by cliffs and colorful beach houses, making it the perfect place for a relaxing stroll or an ice cream treat.