A Food Lover’s Guide to Whitby
Whitby’s Must-Try Eats: From Fish & Chips to Local Favourites
Whitby is a haven for foodies. Known for its rich maritime history and access to fresh, local produce, the town is bursting with flavour—especially if you love seafood and classic British comfort food. Whether you’re staying in on of our Whitby holiday cottages for a relaxing weekend or just stopping by for the day, these local dishes should be on your must-try list.
🐟 Fish and Chips: a Whitby Essential
First things first – you simply can’t visit Whitby without trying its legendary fish and chips. It’s the classic British dish done right—think flaky cod or haddock straight from the sea, coated in crispy golden batter and served with a mound of chunky chips. The town is full of chippies, each with its loyal fans, so why not sample a few and decide for yourself which one’s the best?
🔥 Fortune’s Kippers: A Taste of Tradition
Next, head to Fortune’s Smokehouse on Henrietta Street. This family-run business has been smoking kippers since 1872. Their rich, smoky herring is perfect for breakfast or lunch and offers an authentic taste of Whitby’s culinary heritage.
🦀 Whitby Crab: Fresh from the Sea
If seafood is your thing, Whitby crab is a must. It’s sweet, delicate and served in everything from crisp salads and crab cakes to simple lemon-dressed dishes. You’ll find it featured in pubs, cafés, and fine dining spots across town. It’s fresh, local, and full of flavour.
🥐 Botham’s of Whitby: Famous for Their Yorkshire Treats
Step into the world of Botham’s of Whitby, a beloved family-run bakery dating back to 1865 and known for its irresistible selection of Yorkshire classics. Their lemon buns are a standout—soft, fluffy, and topped with a tangy glaze. Even celebrity chefs have tried to recreate them, but nothing beats the original.
🥧 Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash: Comfort on a Plate
Craving something warm and hearty after a seaside stroll? Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash is your go-to. This vintage-style eatery dishes up traditional British pies stuffed with savoury fillings and served alongside velvety mashed potatoes and rich, flavourful gravy. Classic comfort food at its finest.
🍦 Trillo’s Ice Cream: Italian Roots, Whitby Heart
A taste of Italy by the Yorkshire coast, Trillo’s of Whitby has been crafting ice cream in their local factory for over 100 years. The family originally came from Italy, bringing with them generations-old recipes that have since become Whitby staples. From timeless vanilla to inventive flavours like Whitby Jet, there’s something to tempt every palate.
🍰 Parkin: A Yorkshire Classic
No visit to Whitby is complete without sampling a slice of parkin—a traditional Yorkshire gingerbread cake made with oatmeal, treacle, and warming spices. Rich, sticky, and comforting, this seasonal favourite is perfect with a hot cup of tea, especially in the chillier months. You’ll find it in bakeries and cafés throughout the town.
🍸 Whitby Gin: A Coastal Spirit in Every Sip
Born from a shared passion and a love for their coastal hometown, Whitby Gin is the creation of Luke and Jess—a duo who’ve captured the spirit of Yorkshire in every bottle. Since 2017, Whitby Distillery has been handcrafting gin using a blend of classic botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus, alongside uniquely local ingredients. Expect a truly distinctive profile with hints of heather from the North York Moors, sugar kelp foraged from nearby shores, and sweet Yorkshire honey. It’s coastal craftsmanship in a glass.
🍺 Whitby Brewery: Ale with a View
Nestled in the shadow of Whitby Abbey on East Cliff, Whitby Brewery has been serving up exceptional craft ales since 2013. Their brews are a firm favourite in local pubs, or you can enjoy them straight from the source at their welcoming taproom. For those curious about the brewing process, the brewery also offers guided tours and tastings—a great way to experience Whitby’s beer scene first-hand. Tickets are available through their website.
🧀 The Whitby Deli: Yorkshire Goodness in Every Bite
For a true taste of Yorkshire’s culinary richness, a visit to The Whitby Deli is a must. This charming spot showcases the best in local produce—from artisan cheeses and award-winning chutneys to homemade pies, pastries, and more. Looking for a thoughtful gift? Their bespoke hampers are perfect for any food lover, packed with carefully curated regional treats.
Beyond its local delicacies, Whitby boasts a vibrant dining scene that caters to every taste. From welcoming pubs dishing up comforting classics to refined restaurants offering creative, contemporary cuisine, there’s no shortage of memorable meals to be had.
Whether you’re craving freshly caught seafood, traditional British favourites, or something a little more adventurous, Whitby serves up flavours to delight every palate.
