Whitby (pop. 15,800), an old seaport full of tradition, has magnificent beaches of sand, extending to Robin Hood's Bay and beyond. The River Esk flows between the older and newer parts of the town. Whitby was formerly an important whaling station. Captain Cook served as an apprentice in Grape Lane and began his first Pacific expedition from
Whitby. There is a memorial above the harbor to the great seafarer and discoverer.
The golf-course is breathtakingly situated on high cliffs above the beach, while the best view of the town and coast is to be had from the inappropriately named Khyber Pass.
Whitby hosts a regatta each year in August - three days of displays, events and fireworks as well as a rowing competition. The town also hosts Whitby Folk Week and Whitby Now featuring live music.