The coastal resort will host the spectacular event on Saturday, June 27th, from 11am until 5pm. Organised by North Yorkshire Council as part of its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the day is designed to honour and thank currently serving troops, service families, veterans, and cadets.

The skies above Scarborough will see six distinct aerial performances, culminating in a headline display by the frontline fighter jet, the RAF Eurofighter Typhoon. The full flight schedule includes:

• 11.30am: RAF Chinook flypast
• 11.40am: RAF Tutor T Mark 1 precision display
• 1.30pm: Hawker Fury powerful afternoon display
• 2.30pm: Calidus AutoGyro agile flight demonstration
• 3.30pm: RAF Supermarine Spitfire iconic heritage display
• 4.05pm: RAF Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 high-speed finale

On the ground, visitors can enjoy traditional military marches, band displays, and live music. The parades will feature local groups like the Scarborough Sea Cadets and area veterans, alongside a procession led by the Queen’s Own Yeomanry and the Yorkshire Volunteers Band. This year’s event will also feature a dedicated display by the Chelsea Pensioners, marking their very first appearance at Scarborough Armed Forces Day.

North Yorkshire has a deep connection to the military community, housing more than 12,000 Ministry of Defence personnel across major bases like Catterick Garrison, Dishforth, Ripon, Topcliffe, and various RAF stations. The official week of events kicks off ahead of the main event with a flag-raising ceremony led by Army Cadets at Scarborough Town Hall on Monday, June 22nd.

North Yorkshire Council Leader, Cllr Carl Les, said:

“Scarborough Armed Forces Day is more than an event—it’s a show of unity, pride and community spirit. The event is one of hundreds held across the country on this day to show our support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community to selflessly and bravely serve our country… Together we thank and celebrate all who serve or have served.”

Cllr Kevin Foster, the Council’s Armed Forces Champion, added:

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together and show their appreciation for those who serve, from currently serving personnel to veterans, cadets and their families. We’re very proud to host such an important celebration on our coastline.”

The revised regeneration scheme aims to protect the south bay’s maritime heritage while upgrading the site into a modern, flood-resilient destination. Decades of harsh marine conditions have left several of the pier’s listed buildings in a dilapidated state, requiring significant long-term investment to improve safety and safeguard the local fishing industry.

The updated plans, which were redesigned following extensive feedback from a previous planning submission in February 2024, place a heavy emphasis on keeping a clearly defined working harbour. The council has added improved fishery facilities to the blueprint, including new bait sheds and better welfare facilities for local crews. Notably, a previous proposal to build a restaurant inside one of the main buildings has been completely withdrawn, and a flexible industrial space has been set aside to allow for a future boat lift.

For visitors and the local economy, the scheme promises a new paved public plaza capable of hosting outdoor events and cultural activities, alongside upgraded pedestrian routes, new kiosks, and improved public toilets and parking. Funding for the project will be drawn from North Yorkshire Council’s capital budget alongside a slice of the £20.2 million grant awarded to the town through the Government’s Local Regeneration Fund.

The public consultation on these revised plans is now live and will run until Monday, 13th July 2026, allowing residents and harbour users to review the designs before a formal planning application is submitted.

“This project provides a valuable opportunity to transform the harbour and safeguard it for future generations. Many of the facilities on the West Pier are in urgent need of investment. Our aim is to revitalise the pier so it can continue to support local businesses, while also becoming a more attractive and sustainable destination that can drive growth in the town.”

“While some buildings that are no longer fit-for-purpose will need to be demolished to make way for new development, others will be carefully repaired to ensure Scarborough’s maritime heritage is preserved and celebrated.”

The proposed Urban Gull Strategy sets out a balanced framework for managing protected bird species—including herring gulls and kittiwakes—across Scarborough, Whitby, and Filey. Because all gull species are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981, the council cannot simply cull the birds. Instead, the strategy focuses on encouraging long-term coexistence by altering human behaviour and modifying the local environment.

The draft strategy has been built on national conservation data alongside feedback from Natural England, the RSPB, the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water, and the Yorkshire Coast Urban Gull Partnership. The core plan focuses heavily on cutting off the gulls’ primary motivation for scavenging by improving public litter habits and changing how businesses handle food waste. It also outlines plans to deploy intensive cleaning crews to known bird-fouling hotspots, work alongside private landowners to install safe and lawful deterrent systems on buildings, and conduct ongoing scientific surveys to track nesting habits.

The draft strategy is scheduled for formal debate and public consultation during a meeting of the Scarborough and Whitby area committee on Friday 5th June 2026. Following the consultation process, the council’s executive will be asked to officially adopt the strategy later this year.

“Gulls are an intrinsic part of the North Yorkshire coast, and living alongside them is something coastal towns have done for generations. However, their increasing presence does bring challenges. This proposed strategy sets out a clear, balanced approach that recognises both the importance of protecting these species and the need to minimise their impact on residents, businesses and visitors. By focusing on practical measures such as reducing food waste, improving awareness and using effective deterrents, we can support long-term coexistence and ensure our coastal towns remain clean, safe and welcoming places for everyone.”

Cllr Liz Colling, chair of the Scarborough and Whitby area committee, commented:

“I am looking forward to the debate and discussion at the area committee on the urban gull strategy. I’m interested to see the proposals about how we can change our own behaviour on food waste and litter, and the impact it will make to the cleanliness of our coastal towns and the way that the gulls behave.”

Filey is also home to a diverse range of eateries, so those visiting for the day or staying in the area have plenty of places to choose from. To help you plan ahead and avoid those last-minute arguments about where to eat, we’ve put together this guide to the best restaurants in Filey in 2026…

The Best Restaurants In Filey…

The Star Inn

23 Mitford Street, Filey YO14 9DX

No Yorkshire coastal trip would be complete without a proper pub visit, and The Star is one of the most popular in Filey. Family-run and boasting cosy, traditional interiors, it’s a classically British pub serving quality homemade grub. Those with four-legged friends are welcome to dine in their beer garden, though dogs aren’t permitted inside. The bar is stocked with six real ales alongside a good selection of wines and spirits.

When it comes to food, expect a great selection of British and continental dishes plus a lovely little children’s menu. Of course, there are plenty of fish and seafood options, including Jumbo Scampi with Chips and a delicious King Prawn & Lobster Cocktail starter. Those who prefer a meaty main can tuck into Ribeye Steak, Minted Lamb Shank, Homemade Steak Pudding and Homemade Indian Style
Chicken Curry. A proper local – warmly recommended.

The Boat Shed

7 Murray Street, Filey YO14 9DA

The Boat Shed isn’t quite a restaurant, and it isn’t quite a bar either. It was created by gin lovers as a venue where people can enjoy a quality meal and drink all day or into the evening. If you’re dining as a group, this place is a great option as there’s very much a focus on the social aspect of dining, with large pizzas and tapas dishes made for sharing. The perfect spot to unwind with drinks and nibbles after a long day exploring the coast.

Sample a few gins or cocktails from their extensive bar menu and soak them up with Baked Camembert and freshly baked bread. Those with an appetite for something more substantial can order one of their delicious pizzas – and if your preferred topping combination isn’t on the menu, the staff will always try to create it for you. A relaxed, sociable venue unlike anything else in Filey.

The Glasshouse at Charlottes

40 Belle Vue Street, Filey YO14 9HY

The Glasshouse at Charlottes is the sensational result of a merger between two popular Filey businesses – The Bronte Vinery and Charlotte’s of Filey. Built underneath the second-oldest grapevine in the UK, this beautiful dining destination is one you won’t want to miss. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the dishes on their menus are simple but perfectly executed, and the setting is simply stunning – all tall windows, lush greenery and natural light.

During the evening, they offer pizzas, burgers and tapas alongside a selection of British and international classics, with mains averaging around £20. Tuck into Tuscan Style Chicken, sample the area’s award-winning fish with their Classic Fish Pie or opt for something lighter like the Grilled Halloumi, Avocado & Hot Honey Salad. With its Instagrammable interiors, large dining area and strong reputation for quality, this is one of the most talked-about restaurants in Filey, and rightly so.

San Marco

13 Murray Street, Filey YO14 9DA

One of the most popular and most enduring restaurants in Filey, San Marco has been a firm fixture on the town’s dining scene since 2002. Head Chef and owner Luca Masucci has over 30 years of experience in the kitchen, and it shows – this is a proper Italian restaurant serving authentic cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting. Open six nights a week, it has one of the biggest and most loyal customer bases in Filey, and rightly so.

All dishes are created from genuine Italian recipes, with most ingredients sourced locally to ensure quality and freshness. You’ll find all the best-loved pizza and pasta dishes on an extensive menu, in addition to a wide variety of meat-based and vegetarian mains. Prices range from £11.50 for a simple pasta dish to £36.90 for a grilled fillet steak – reasonable by anyone’s standards for food of this quality. Every trip to Filey should include a meal here.

Monsoon

16A Belle Vue Crescent, Filey YO14 9AD

Open seven days a week, Monsoon is a contemporary Indian restaurant with sleek interiors and a menu of authentic cuisine. Opened in 2017, this laidback eatery regularly earns glowing reviews from locals and holidaymakers impressed by the quality of the food and the warmth of the service.

All curries are made fresh to order and vary considerably in heat, from mild and aromatic to fiery and bold. You’ll find all the traditional favourites – Biryani, Korma, Madras – alongside several signature dishes and house specials. It’s very reasonably priced, with starters from around £5 and curries from £10. The restaurant is only licensed for 40 covers, so booking in advance is strongly recommended, particularly during peak season. A wonderful, reliable choice.

Benny’s Bar & Grill, Filey

5 Hope Street, Filey YO14 9DJ

Taking over the popular Hope Street premises, Benny’s Bar & Grill has firmly established itself as one of the most highly regarded dining destinations on the Yorkshire Coast. Run by owner and chef Ben, this intimate and welcoming restaurant beautifully pairs a vibrant, cosy atmosphere, often showcasing incredible artwork from local creators, with top-tier service.

The kitchen is particularly renowned for its exceptional, precision-cooked steaks and massive carnivore sharing platters, which have quickly earned a fierce reputation among locals and visitors alike. Everything on the menu is produced to a remarkably high standard, complemented by a brilliant selection of fresh cocktails (the mojitos are a local favourite). It boasts an impressive 4.8 rating and is an absolute magnet for dog owners thanks to its extremely pet-friendly policy. Because it is a compact venue that is consistently booked solid throughout the season, securing a table well in advance is essential.

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Nine specific locations have been identified where there has been persistent littering, anti-social behaviour, crime and damage to the environment. These include Royal Albert Park, Castle Dyke, South Cliff and Italian Gardens, Scalby Beck, Marvels, Peasholm Park, and Museum Terrace and Gardens in Scarborough, as well as the open space surrounding Whitby Abbey and Pannett Park in Whitby. A total of 402 responses were received as part of the consultation, with the majority of respondents expressing high levels of concern regarding unauthorised camping and the resulting impact on hygiene and human waste.

Between May and October 2024, unauthorised wild camping in these locations cost more than £30,000 to clear up and repair, a figure that excludes the costs associated with call-outs for North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. If adopted, the PSPO would give the council the power to move people on, issue a fixed penalty notice of up to £100, or lead to a court conviction and a maximum fine of £1,000.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for community safety, Cllr Heather Phillips, said: “In recent years, the impact of wild camping has been detrimental on the environment in popular locations across Whitby and Scarborough. There has been an influx of littering and antisocial behaviour, including damage to seats and benches, burning of the ground and vegetation, and defecating and urinating. I would like to thank everybody for sharing their views in the consultation, which will help to shape our decision.”

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing our environment, Cllr Richard Foster, added: “We are proposing a PSPO to help to control and, hopefully, stop illegal wild camping to ensure everyone can continue to enjoy our picturesque coastal towns. To clean up after irresponsible campers brings a significant cost to the taxpayer and affects the quality of live for everybody who lives, visits and works there. It’s clear from the consultation that the majority of people acknowledge the issue and will welcome quick and firm measures.”

The plans will be discussed at a council meeting this Friday 1st May.

The celebrations, coordinated by North Yorkshire Council alongside local organisations and supported by Arts Council England, aim to engage residents while promoting the town to national visitors. A key highlight includes the unveiling of Aqua Vitalis, a bronze sculpture by internationally renowned artist Jethro Crabb. The artwork, inspired by Thomasin Farrer, the woman who first discovered the spa waters, will be situated near the South Bay seafront.

Scarborough-based arts group Animated Objects is leading a series of creative initiatives, including lantern-making workshops during the May half-term and a large-scale parade in November. Significant events also include a “Seaside Spa Resort” celebration during SeaFest (18–19 July), featuring a handcrafted recreation of the original pump room, and a dual-session silent disco at Scarborough Spa on 8 August.

Cllr Simon Myers, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for arts and culture, said: “The 400th anniversary of the spa waters being discovered at Scarborough is a huge event for the town. Scarborough is one of our most popular destinations, but it is such a special place to live as well. We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to get involved.”

Lee Threadgold, Artistic Director of Animated Objects, added: “We want local communities to feel a real part of Scarborough 400 as this is an important milestone for the whole town. We have lined up a varied programme, looking both at our history and towards the next 400 years for Scarborough.”

Further festivities are planned for the autumn, including the Moonlight on the Lake lantern trail at Peasholm Park on 23–24 October. For a full schedule of events and workshop details, residents and visitors can visit www.visitnorthyorkshire.com/s400.

With more than 60 separate stalls across the site, the variety was impressive, filling the air with enticing aromas of everything from Greek and Turkish baklava to wood-fired pizza and spicy jerk chicken. Those with a sweet tooth were treated to a range of freshly made waffles, doughnuts, crumbles, and crepes, while the drink selection showcased home-produced cider alongside craft gins, vodkas, and rums. It wasn’t just about the food, as the tipi bar became a popular hub for refreshments, and O’Brien’s Funfair provided the rides that kept the family-friendly, vibrant atmosphere going all weekend.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for arts and culture, Cllr Simon Myers, said:

“A lot of hard work went into planning and organising this event and I would like to thank everyone who played their part in ensuring it was a truly memorable weekend. It was great to see so many local residents, visitors and businesses turning out in support of the festival, which showcased some of the very best produce that this county has to offer. This was only its second year, but it’s clear to see that the town has really taken the festival to its heart. I look forward to seeing how it continues to grow, attracting even more families from across North Yorkshire and beyond in the years to come. The visitor economy is very important for our local economy, and events like this are crucial in continuing to encourage people to visit our towns and coastal destinations, particularly outside the traditional tourist season.”

This year’s festival held additional significance as it fell during the 400th anniversary of Scarborough becoming a spa town. It is part of a wider programme designed to honour the town’s history while keeping it firmly on the map as a must-visit destination. With tourism in Scarborough currently generating nearly £580 million annually, the success of the festival provides a welcome boost for the region. If you’re looking to plan your next trip out, you can find more information about upcoming events across North Yorkshire at visitnorthyorkshire.com.

Whitby’s food scene is every bit as colourful as the town itself. It’s officially the UK’s Fish and Chip Capital for 2026, but honestly? There’s so much more happening here than just world-class batter. You’ve got everything from the iconic queues at The Magpie Café to hidden-gem French brasseries and old-school pie shops tucked away down cobbled side streets. It’s that unique kind of place where traditional seaside vibes meet genuinely exciting modern cooking.

Whether you’ve spent the morning tackling the 199 steps to the Abbey or just getting lost in the independent shops, you’re going to work up an appetite, and luckily, finding a great table is by no means difficult.

From the freshly revamped Tide to the much-hyped summer opening of The Treasury, here is our 2026 insider’s guide to the best spots in town. Use it to map out your must-eats before you arrive!

The Best Restaurants in Whitby for a Sit-Down Meal

Tide (by Trenchers)

8 Bridge Street, Whitby YO22 4BG

Main Courses: £16.00 – £32.00

If you want the legendary Trenchers quality but with a modern, “bistro” edge, head straight to Tide. Following a major refresh in March 2026, this Bridge Street spot has mastered the day-to-night transition. Lunch is a relaxed affair featuring brilliant seafood tapas, but the evening is where it really shines with a refined à la carte menu. It’s stylish, intimate, and perfectly fills the gap between a casual lunch and a proper night out.

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The Treasury

17 Baxtergate, Whitby YO21 1BW

This is the one to watch for Summer 2026. Taking over the grand Grade II listed HSBC bank on Baxtergate, The Treasury is set to be Whitby’s most glamorous opening in years. The vaults are being traded for a high-end champagne bar and a menu focusing on premium Yorkshire steaks and local lobster. It’s shaping up to be the ultimate “special occasion” spot – perfect for those who want a side of luxury with their sea air. Keep this at the top of your list for your summer visits.

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Moutreys

9 Grape Lane, Whitby YO22 4BA

Main Courses: £12.95 – £22.95

This independent Italian restaurant has been one of Whitby’s most popular dining spots since opening in 2003. The menu is rather extensive, featuring wood-fired pizzas, an array of classic pasta dishes, homemade burgers and freshly prepared salads. A reasonably priced town centre eatery offering a warm welcome and hearty grub prepared with love!

Its popularity is quite understandable. The team consistently delivers good service and equally good food at reasonable prices. Begin with a traditional antipasto washed down with a glass of red, then move on to a scrumptious plate of Moutreys’ signature spicy meatballs. Room for dessert? Check out their specials and finish with something naughty!

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Cosa Nostra

West Cliff, Whitby YO21 3HT

Main Courses: £14.25 – £25.95

Sticking with the Italian recommendations, Cosa Nostra on Church Street is a long-standing local favourite offering a traditional, cosy Italian atmosphere.

Located in a beautiful Grade II listed building, the restaurant is split over two floors and offers a more intimate and romantic ambience than the larger harbourside spots.

The menu is pretty much a straightforward celebration of Italian classics, with a primary focus on fresh pasta and hand-stretched pizzas. Their Linguine Frutti Di Mare, loaded with fresh seafood, is a natural choice in a fishing town, whilst the Gambo Tenero Broccoli e Gorgonzola pizza is an indulgent alternative to the classic margherita.

It’s particularly popular for a relaxed evening meal, especially if you’re looking for a spot on the “Old Town” side of the bridge. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel; it just focuses on doing the basics well in a setting that feels genuinely welcoming.

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Ditto

26 Skinner Street, Whitby YO21 3AJ

If you’re after something that feels a bit more like a hidden gem, Ditto on Skinner Street is the one to book. It’s a tiny, family-run bistro that feels like a quiet corner of London or Edinburgh has been dropped right into the middle of Whitby.

The interior is stripped back and modern, and because there are only a handful of tables, it has that intimate “dinner party” vibe where you can actually hear yourself think. Perfect for a date night or long overdue catch-up

The menu is short, which is always a good sign, and it changes with the seasons. Here, it’s less about the deep-fat fryer and more about things like baked coley fillet with a shellfish cream sauce or braised beef cheek with parmesan polenta. It’s refined without being pretentious, and you can tell the team behind it really cares about the details.

Just a heads-up, though – because it’s so small you usually need to get your name in the diary well in advance.

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Velveteen French Café, Bar & Brasserie

3a Grape Lane, Whitby YO22 4BA

Head over to Grape Lane, one of Whitby’s prettiest cobbled streets, and you’ll find Velveteen. It’s a French café and brasserie that offers something very different to the piles of fish and chips being served just a few doors away.

The vibe here is pure bistro – romantic and candlelit, so it’s another excellent choice for couples. They cover the full French spectrum, so you can drop in for a morning croissant or settle in for the full crème brûlée experience in the evening.

The menu hits all those classic high notes you’d hope for, from moules frites to a very decadent lobster thermidor. It’s definitely one of the town’s best spots for a date night or a “proper” meal when you want to feel a bit tucked away from the seaside bustle with a glass of wine.

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Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash

163 Church Street, Whitby YO22 4AS

If you’re looking for the polar opposite of a “fine dining” vibe, you’ll find it at Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash. Located in a timber-framed building on Church Street, this place is exactly what it says on the tin – a nostalgic, 1940s-themed pie shop that feels like stepping back in time.

There’s no pretension whatsoever here. It’s all about locally sourced pies, proper buttery mash, and lashings of liquor or gravy. The decor is packed with wartime memorabilia, and the atmosphere is so cosy it practically hugs you – especially if you’ve just made your way down the 199 steps and need to refuel. It’s a massive hit with families, partly because it’s so affordable and partly because it’s just a fun, quirky place to eat.

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Pizza West

West Cliff, Whitby YO21 3HT

Main Courses: £16 – £25

For a change of pace from the harbourside queues, Pizza West on the West Cliff is a breath of fresh air.

Housed in a striking Art Deco building that feels a world away from the traditional seaside aesthetic, the vibe here is modern and incredibly relaxed.

The menu is a step above your average pizzeria. The bases are excellent – thin, chewy, and charred in all the right places. The Pizza Bianca with truffle oil and parmesan is a great option for those seeking something lighter, while the Tuscan Sausage with crispy onions offers a bit more of a punch.

If you aren’t strictly after pizza, the kitchen puts as much effort into its small plates and pastas. The wood-fired lamb chops are consistently good, and for a bit of local luxury, the Whitby lobster pappardelle is well worth an order too.

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The Garden Room at Sneaton Castle

Sneaton Castle Estate, Castle Road, Whitby YO21 3QN

Main Courses: £17 – £37.00

The historic Sneaton Castle, with its spectacular chapel and priory, is one of the area’s most popular wedding venues and hotels, but it also boasts an excellent on-site restaurant. The Garden Room at Sneaton Castle offers an awe-inspiringly elegant yet unpretentious setting for a celebratory meal or holiday treat.

The short but carefully curated bistro menu at this restaurant in Whitby changes with the seasons but always features something to suit most tastes and palates. Currently on the menu, you’ll find a small selection of international mains, such as Chicken Jalfrezi, as well as some grilled meats, including 8oz Prime Fillet and Chargrilled Tomahawk Pork Chop.

If visiting on Sunday, be sure to check out their cracking roasts! All the meats are locally sourced, served with the expected accompaniments, and prepared exceptionally well.

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White House Inn

Upgang Lane, Whitby YO21 3JJ

Main Courses: £11 – £19.50

If you want to dodge the crowds but keep the coastal views, The White House Inn is a great shout. It’s tucked away just under a mile from the town centre, right on the edge of the golf course, and the views across the cliffs are easily some of the best in Whitby.

It’s a proper, dog-friendly pub that doesn’t try to be anything it isn’t. While the scenery is the main draw, the food is exactly the kind of reliable, comfort grub you want after a long walk along the coast. It’s arguably home to one of the best Sunday roasts in the area, and they do a cracking afternoon tea too.

The menu is a solid mix of the classics – think Beef & Ale Casserole, Slow Cooked Pork Belly, and a proper Teesside-style Chicken Parmo. If the weather permits, sitting outside with a drink while looking out over the North Sea is tricky to beat.

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Harry’s Lounge Bar & Brasserie

10-11 Pier Road, Whitby YO21 3PU

Main Courses: £12 – £33

Harry’s Lounge Bar & Brasserie is a vibrant all-day spot right on Pier Road with fantastic views across to the Abbey. It’s open from 10 am daily, making it a reliable spot whether you need a proper “Full English” before sightseeing or a late-night cocktail.

The menu is varied enough to please everyone, and like most Whitby restaurants, they really lean into the local seafood. During the day, you’ve got light bites like the Whitby Crab Brioche Sarnie – a glorious mix of brown and white meat in a toasted torpedo roll – or their signature Seafood Chowder. If you’re with a group, the “Taste of Whitby” sharer board is a great way to sample everything from mussels and battered cod bites to scampi and mini prawn cocktails.

Things get a bit more serious after 5 pm when the “Nighttime Dishes” kick in. This is when their Famous Hanging Kebabs take centre stage, with options ranging from spicy Peri Peri Chicken to fragrant Thai Green King Prawn. For those after something more substantial, the Seafood Linguine or a classic Rib Eye Steak won’t disappoint, while the “Chef’s Special” loaded smashed burger is a winner for a more casual dinner.

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The White Horse and Griffin

87 Church Street, Whitby YO22 4BH

Main Courses: £19.00 – £25.00

Tucked away on one of Whitby’s oldest cobbled streets, this 1681 coaching inn is one of the most characterful spots in town, having once hosted Charles Dickens and Captain James Cook.

The vibe here is exactly what you want from a historic seaside pub – low ceilings, original wood panelling, and a crackling log fire. Being just a three-minute stroll from the 199 steps, it’s an ideal retreat after a day of exploring the Abbey.

While the building is steeped in history, the food is the real reason people keep coming back. The kitchen focuses heavily on fresh, locally sourced seafood, with the Spring 2026 menu highlighting everything from King Scallops with Charred Corn Salsa to Tikka Spiced Trout with Sag Aloo. Their signature WH&G Fish Pie is packed with locally caught white fish and shellfish and remains a firm favourite.

If you’re not in the mood for fish, the meat and vegetarian options are equally well-considered. You’ll find hearty dishes like Pan Fried Barnsley Lamb Chops and Yorkshire Chicken Supreme, alongside creative plant-based choices such as the Spiced Butternut Squash Steak and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie.

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The Marine

13 Marine Parade, Whitby YO21 3PR

Main Courses: £15.00 – 46.00

If you are looking for a spot right on the harbour, The Marine is a contemporary boutique hotel and restaurant that focuses heavily on local seafood. The dining room has an airy, modern feel and is a popular choice for those who want to watch the boats while they eat.

The menu is designed around the daily catch, featuring everything from British rock oysters with various dressings to their signature Seafood Platter for Two, which includes lobster, Whitby crab, prawns, and home-cured gravadlax.

While fish takes the lead here, the kitchen also provides several options for those who prefer meat or veggie dishes. You’ll find Landers of Whitby beef on the menu, including a stunning 12-oz ribeye, alongside vegetarian choices like deep-fried halloumi and chips and a wild mushroom risotto.

It’s an all-day operation, so it works just as well for a morning coffee or a plate of Whitby Kippers at breakfast as it does for an evening dinner.

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The Best Fish and Chips in Whitby

The Magpie Cafe

14 Pier Road, Whitby YO21 3PU

Main Courses: £14.50 – £43.00

No trip to the seaside would be complete without tucking into a steaming portion of Fish & Chips, and people flock from all over to do so at The Magpie Cafe. This iconic Fish & Chips restaurant in Whitby is by far one of the most recognisable restaurants in the town. Over the years, it has welcomed countless notable guests and the queues outside are often lengthy.

Pop in for a plateful of freshly battered fish (lots of options for this!) and pretty perfect chips, or opt for one of their many other delicious fish dishes like Whitby Lobster and Chips, Haddock and Prawns in a Creamy Leek Sauce or the chef’s Seafood Curry of the Day. The menu is undoubtedly a pescatarian’s dream, but they also serve meat and vegetarian dishes, so nobody misses out.

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Trenchers

New Quay Road, Whitby YO21 1DH

Main Courses: £14.95 – £27.95

The Magpie Cafe faces stiff competition in the ongoing debate over Whitby’s finest fish and chips. Trenchers remains a top contender and a personal favourite for any visit to the town. The restaurant recently secured the Restaurant of the Year title at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2026, marking its second win in the category.

Located on the harbour side, the spacious, family-friendly venue features a varied menu that moves beyond the standard fryer. Alongside traditional cod, haddock, and plaice, the kitchen serves alternative dishes like Whitby Scampi, Butcher’s Steak Pie, Hot Poached Salmon, and Seafood Chowder. Five Bean Chilli provides a reliable vegetarian option.

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The restrictions, which apply between 11pm and 7am, were first introduced in November 2024 to tackle a surge in complaints. Residents and authorities had raised concerns over safety and anti-social behaviour, including reports of littering, campfires, and improper waste disposal on public grass.

The ban has been focused on North Bay in Scarborough and the A174 south of Sandsend. A similar trial at Cayton Bay had to be abandoned early after parking signs were repeatedly vandalised.

Data from the trial shows a clear divide in opinion. Of the 3,000 responses received by the council, two-thirds came from motorhome owners, the majority of whom opposed the ban. However, 60% of residents who took part said they support or strongly support the measures.

The council has noted that while the ban cleared specific hotspots, it also displaced some vehicles into nearby residential streets. As a result, officials are now considering expanding the restrictions to other areas in Scarborough based on feedback from the community.

Cllr Malcolm Taylor, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transport, explained the need for a balanced approach:

“The tourist economy in Scarborough and Whitby is vital to prosperity in the area, but we must try and strike the right balance between all road users. The trial ban on overnight parking was introduced following an increase in people going on holiday in motor caravans, spending long periods of time in the same place and often taking up several parking spaces. Along with the police, we receive complaints about anti-social behaviour including reports of campfires and barbeques, leaving litter and defecating on the grass.”

Local committee members have also suggested that the council explore providing more dedicated, official facilities for motorhomes. This would ensure visitors still have a place to stay without impacting residential areas or local businesses. Caravan and camping site owners in the region have previously argued that their businesses suffer when free overnight street parking is left unregulated.

A final decision on making the ban permanent and potentially extending it will be discussed at a council meeting this Friday, 27th March.

The move follows the sudden closure of permanent toilet blocks at Royal Parade in Filey and the West Pier in Scarborough due to serious structural issues. This rapid response is vital for the regional tourism industry, as both towns expect thousands of visitors over the Easter break and the approaching summer season.

Structural defects and heavy rainfall forced the closure of the Filey block in February, while engineers found similar safety concerns at the West Pier shortly after. Council leader Carl Les said: “We fully understand and appreciate the frustration caused by the current lack of toilet facilities in Filey and Scarborough. With both Royal Parade and West Pier, we were left with no alternative but to close the facilities due to the safety concerns raised.”

The council has secured fifteen temporary units for the West Pier car park and five for Royal Parade. While this is fewer than the original number of cubicles, officials are looking for ways to add more. Carl Les added: “We have faced a number of challenges in securing temporary provision on both sites, but we have been actively exploring alternative options. We are pleased to have now secured 20 temporary toilets, which will be fully operational by the end of this month.”

Longer term plans to rebuild or fix the permanent sites are still being developed. In the meantime, the temporary blocks will include accessible provision to keep the seafronts functional for everyone. Carl Les said: “I would like to thank our communities for their ongoing cooperation as we worked to reach a positive resolution as quickly as possible.”

The new units are expected to be ready for use by the end of March. Residents and tourists can find a full map of open facilities by visiting the North Yorkshire Council website at www.northyorks.gov.uk/toilets.