A day out at Whitby Abbey (From York Press)

A day out at Whitby Abbey

11:13am Saturday 8th October 2011 in Days out By Mike Laycock, Chief reporter

Mike Laycock climbs 199 steps to visit Whitby Abbey.

Why? The imposing ruins on the clifftops above Whitby are well worth the climb up the 199 steps from the old town. We had visiting relatives accompanying us and - once they had got their breath back - they appreciated the great views across the town and up the Yorkshire coastline before we headed for the abbey.

The buildings date back to the 13th century, although the first monastery was founded here in 657 when it was ruled by a formidable abbess called Hilda.

We entered the abbey by passing through English Heritage’s modern visitor centre, set in a nearby mansion house dating back to 1672.

Here are displayed archaeological finds dating back to Anglo-Saxon times and there are interactive, touch screens allowing visitors to question Whitby personalities, from Abbess Hilda to Bram Stoker, who found his inspiration for Dracula in the town.

Parts of the abbey have been damaged and lost through centuries of wind, rain and sea-spray, not to mention bombardment by the German navy in the First World War. The pinnacled east end and north transept still stand high.

We took the audio tour explaining the site’s history as we wandered through the grounds.

When? Open most days from 10am to 4pm, although the abbey will be shutting on some weekdays in October.

How much? Adults admission: £6; concessions: £5.40; children: £3.60. Family ticket: £15.60.

Disabled access? Disabled visitors can be set down by the entrance to the visitor centre, and access to monument and grounds is via the visitor centre's lift up to the grounds, with grass paths around the ruins.

Further information: 01947 603568 or go to english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/whitby-abbey