Whitby, Abbey House, East Cliff54.487591,-0.608513(Show on Map)
8.7
Very Good
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+5 Photos
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Checkin - Checkout dates
1 Room2 Guests
Info
Summary of reviews
YHA Whitby is a highly regarded accommodation choice for visitors to the picturesque town of Whitby, praised for its idyllic location, historic charm and comprehensive range of amenities. Nestled next to the iconic Whitby Abbey, the hostel features breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings, providing a serene retreat that combines natural beauty with rich history. Its proximity to the town center, along with bars, shops and restaurants, makes it an ideal base for exploring the area. Whether guests are hiking routes like the Cleveland Way or simply enjoying the scenic grounds and well-maintained gardens, YHA Whitby offers an unparalleled experience enhanced by complimentary access to Whitby Abbey.
The breakfast service at YHA Whitby has generally received favorable reviews, celebrated for its excellent value, generous portions and wide selection. With freshly made options like pain au chocolat and bacon baps, the breakfast experience is further enhanced by the friendly and accommodating café staff. Despite minor criticisms about certain menu items or portion sizes, the overall consensus is positive.
Dinner at the hostel is also well-received with the on-site café/bar offering a delightful setting and a variety of good quality, delicious food. Guests appreciate the accommodating atmosphere and the addition of fun activities like movie and pizza nights. While there were some mixed opinions about certain dishes and occasional service availability, the dining experience remains appealing.
Accommodation at YHA Whitby is characterized by large, clean rooms that frequently offer stunning views of the abbey and surrounding gardens. Families and individual travelers alike find the rooms spacious, comfortable and well-equipped with modern conveniences. While some guests note the absence of amenities like in-room TVs, the overall comfort and cleanliness are consistently praised. The communal areas, including the games room and café, complement the private accommodations well, creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment.
The hostel's commitment to cleanliness is frequently highlighted with guests noting the immaculate condition of rooms and communal areas. Despite isolated concerns about maintenance, the overall atmosphere is positive, bolstered by friendly and professional staff who contribute to a welcoming experience.
The staff at YHA Whitby receive overwhelmingly positive remarks for their friendliness, helpfulness and exceptional service. Guests frequently mention the staff's accommodating nature, which significantly enhances the overall experience at the hostel. Specific instances of staff going above and beyond are commonly highlighted, further cementing their crucial role in guest satisfaction.
Although the WiFi service has received mixed reviews with some guests finding it unreliable in certain areas, the provision of free entry to Whitby Abbey is a notable perk. The hostel's proximity to a beautiful sandy beach adds to its appeal, allowing guests easy access to the coast and various activities, while convenient parking options are generally praised despite occasional challenges.
The beds at YHA Whitby offer a varied experience with many guests finding them comfortable and clean, particularly appreciating the practical features like individual lights. However, opinions on their comfort are mixed with some guests noting firmness and size issues. Despite this, the hostel's affordability and overall cleanliness make it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Ultimately, YHA Whitby offers a memorable stay with amenities and service that often surpass expectations, comparable to a four-star experience. The combination of its stellar location, comfortable accommodations, excellent cleanliness and friendly staff makes it a top choice for anyone visiting Whitby.
Categories
Parking
YHA Whitby offers free parking facilities for those staying at the hostel.
Cheap
As a hostel, YHA Whitby generally offers the most budget-friendly accommodation option. It provides basic amenities suitable for travellers looking for affordable lodging. Its location in Abbey House, East Cliff, places it near key attractions, offering good value for money.
Accessible
YHA Whitby features one accessible bedroom with an accessible en-suite bathroom on the first floor, and a lift providing access to upper floors. The hostel has two accessible WCs equipped with grab rails, low wash basins with lever taps, and emergency cords. The reception desk is low-level with large spaces for wheelchair maneuvering. Step-free access is available via a ramp at the most accessible entrance, and designated Blue Badge parking bays can be reserved. Braille signs are fitted on doors, and emergency lighting and fire alarms are present. A stair lift with a roll-on platform provides access to the dining room.
Historic
Beach
4 Star
Nightlife
Room Types
Bunk Bed in Male Dormitory Room with Shared BathroomDormitory is heated and features wooden furniture.
Bunk Bed in Female Dormitory Room with Shared BathroomDormitory is heated and features wooden furniture.
2 Bed Private Room EnsuiteThis twin room is heated and comes with an en suite bathroom.
2 Bed Private Room Shared BathroomThis twin room is heated and features a bunk bed.
3 Bed Private Room EnsuiteThis triple room is heated and comes with an en suite bathroom.
4 Bed Private Room Shared BathroomThis quadruple room is heated and features wooden furnishings.
4 Bed Private Room EnsuiteThis quadruple room is heated and comes with an en suite bathroom.
5 Bed Private Room EnsuiteThis heated dormitory comes with an en suite bathroom.
6 Bed Private Room EnsuiteThis heated dormitory comes with an en suite bathroom.
4 Bed Double Private Room EnsuiteThe quadruple room provides a carpeted floor and heating, as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 3 beds.
5 Bed Double Private Room EnsuiteThe family room offers a carpeted floor and heating, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 4 beds.
7 Bed Double Private Room EnsuiteThe family room provides a carpeted floor, heating, as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 6 beds.
Premium Bell TentThe tent offers a carpeted floor and heating, as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds and 2 futons.
Private Studio Room with Kitchen, Lounge and Double Bed (Sleeps 5) The studio includes a private bathroom equipped with a shower. The unit offers 4 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.7
Very Good
Review Summaries
Location
Nestled in an astonishingly picturesque setting, YHA Whitby boasts a location that is universally lauded by its guests. Situated right next to the historic Whitby Abbey, the hostel provides breathtaking views and spectacular scenery, making it a prime spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in both natural beauty and rich history. The grounds are not only visually stunning but also peaceful and quiet, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle.
The proximity to the town center is another significant highlight with bars, shops and restaurants just a short walk away, making it convenient for visitors to explore Whitby. The unique position on the headland ensures guests can enjoy views overlooking the sea, the town and the enchanting Abbey ruins, adding an atmospheric charm to their stay.
Favorable comments emphasize the hostel's beautiful and historic building, which feels akin to staying in a National Trust stately home. The well-maintained gardens and spacious communal areas provide additional comfort and relaxation.
For those interested in hiking, the location serves as an ideal starting point, particularly for walking routes like the Cleveland Way. Free entry into Whitby Abbey is an added bonus that guests greatly appreciate, enhancing the overall value of their stay.
In summary, YHA Whitby’s superb location offers a perfect blend of convenience, stunning views and historical allure, making it an unparalleled choice for travelers seeking a memorable visit to Whitby.
Breakfast
YHA Whitby offers a breakfast experience that has garnered a mix of reactions from its guests, though the majority of feedback trends positively. Many reviews highlight the breakfast as good with several guests noting it was amazing, fantastic and delicious. A significant recurring sentiment is the excellent value for money with generous portions and the option for an unlimited breakfast being particularly appreciated.
Guests also praised the wide selection available, describing it as a great choice and good quality. The breakfast, often highlighted as substantial, includes delightful options like freshly made pain au chocolat and bacon baps paired with coffee, earning special mention for being delicious and fresh. The presence of a nice café on-site also adds to the positive dining atmosphere.
The staff, particularly in the café, received commendations for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the breakfast experience even better. They were described as very pleasant and went out of their way to serve guests.
However, not all feedback was glowing. Some guests felt the breakfast choices were limited or that the breakfast wasn't what it used to be, noting it as a significant letdown on occasion. A few comments mentioned issues such as no black pudding, early finishing times and the veggie breakfast being a bit small. Despite this, the positive reviews significantly outweighed the criticisms with many guests looking forward to their morning meal during their stay at YHA Whitby.
Dinner
YHA Whitby offers a delightful dining experience with various positive aspects highlighted by guests. The hostel's on-site cafe is a notable feature with beautiful views adding to its charm. The cafe/bar boasts a lovely atmosphere and remains open from breakfast until late, making it a convenient option for different mealtimes. Guests appreciated the effort to accommodate dietary needs, including gluten-free options.
The quality of the food generally received positive remarks with descriptors such as good, lovely and delicious frequently mentioned. Specific dishes like the chicken curry and homemade pizza garnered positive feedback. The lounge provided a nice setting for a late supper, contributing to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
The addition of a games room and occasional movie and pizza nights in the TV room added a fun and relaxing element to the stay. While the wine was considered a bit expensive by some, the food prices were generally viewed as good.
However, there were some mixed feelings with a few mentioning that the food quality was merely acceptable or not that good. Additionally, some guests were unaware that the Abbey Tea Rooms were not serving food during their stay and there were times when evening meals were not available.
Overall, the dining experience at YHA Whitby is perceived positively with special praise for the cafe, varied food options and accommodating atmosphere.
Rooms
Nestled near the stunning Whitby Abbey, YHA Whitby impresses with its large and clean rooms, many of which offer breathtaking views of the abbey and gardens. Guests appreciate the spaciousness that can easily accommodate families, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment. The rooms are well-equipped, featuring modern bathrooms, comfortable beds and private en-suites for added convenience. Reviews highlight the rooms' warmth and coziness, ensuring a pleasant stay even when minor issues such as inactive radiators arise.
Several guests have mentioned the practicality of rooms, finding them clean, tidy and perfect for their needs, whether it's a family dormitory or a simple private room. Added perks like soundproof spaces, adequate heating and ventilation and plenty of space contribute to a hassle-free experience. Configurations vary, from private dorms and triple rooms to unique family rooms, each thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and privacy.
The hostel's communal facilities—including the enjoyable games room and the convenient café—complement the private accommodations well. Free parking and complimentary passes to explore the abbey add further value to the stay, making YHA Whitby a practical and enjoyable choice for visitors looking to explore this historic town. While some basic elements like in-room TVs or extensive wardrobe space may be missing, the overall comfort and cleanliness of the rooms earn consistent praise. With a friendly staff and beautiful surroundings, YHA Whitby continues to offer an excellent retreat for travelers.
Beds
YHA Whitby offers a blend of experiences when it comes to its sleeping arrangements. A significant number of guests praised the comfortable and clean beds with some highlighting the pleasant sleep they had under bed heads with canopies. The individual lights attached to each bunk bed provided practicality and many found the cushions and blankets to be cozy and warm.
However, opinions on the comfort of the beds were mixed. While some found the beds to be unexpectedly comfy and ideal for children, others were dissatisfied with the firmness and size, noting that the mattresses and pillows lacked comfort. The dormitory-style bunk beds were described as practical but not particularly comfortable with several guests mentioning thin and hard mattresses. Despite these drawbacks, many appreciated the basics and overall cleanliness provided by YHA Whitby, which seemed to meet the expectations of a budget-friendly accommodation.
In summary, YHA Whitby offers a simple yet comfortable stay, especially suitable for those looking for affordable lodging, though some may find the beds less than ideal in terms of comfort.
Cleanliness
YHA Whitby has garnered an exceptional reputation for its cleanliness and comfort. Guests repeatedly remarked on the immaculate condition of the rooms, describing them as clean, comfortable and tidy. The dormitories were noted for being superbly clean and spacious and the bathrooms were also highlighted for their exceptional cleanliness. Regardless of the cost, the standard of cleanliness seemed to exceed expectations with various positive mentions of clean toilets, showers and overall spotless facilities.
The hostel's shared areas, such as the conservatory where guests enjoyed their meals, also received positive feedback regarding their cleanliness. The affordable rates of YHA Whitby did not compromise the level of hygiene, making it a clean and convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers.
While the property itself is well-maintained, some minor issues were mentioned, such as dated public toilets, occasional dirty washing up sponges and the need for some maintenance. Despite these isolated concerns, the overall atmosphere remained positive with friendly and professional staff contributing to a welcoming and exceptionally clean environment.
In summary, YHA Whitby stands out for its cleanliness, cozy atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, making it a top choice for those looking for a neat and comfortable stay.
Staff
YHA Whitby is a place where the staff leaves a lasting positive impression on guests. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the staff's friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests consistently mention the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff, from the easy and pleasant check-in experience to the attentiveness and politeness throughout their stay. The receptionists are frequently praised for their informative and accommodating nature, going above and beyond to ensure guests have everything they need. The tea room and cafe staff also receive high marks for their friendliness and efficiency.
Several reviews note specific instances where staff members made extra efforts, such as finding more comfortable accommodations or providing free entry to Whitby Abbey. Families appreciated the provision of toys for kids and the overall supportive environment. Words like lovely, wonderful and fantastic are often used to describe the staff, contributing significantly to the positive experience at the hostel.
However, there are a few mentions where the experience was just average or could have been improved, but such comments are rare compared to the numerous praises. Overall, the staff at YHA Whitby are described as making the stay just perfect with their exceptional service, making it clear that they play a major role in enhancing the guest experience.
Wi-Fi
Guests at YHA Whitby have shared varied experiences regarding the hotel's WiFi service. Several visitors highlighted that the WiFi connection was often unreliable or completely unavailable in their rooms. While the signal sometimes did not reach dorm rooms, other guests noted that the WiFi was better outside or in the common areas downstairs. On a positive note, there were instances where WiFi was effective, reaching even the top floor rooms, though generally, the connection was described as weak. Overall, while WiFi issues were a common point of contention, the mention of free entry to Whitby Abbey suggests a compensatory perk for guests.
Beach
YHA Whitby offers guests proximity to a beautiful sandy beach and stunning views over Whitby Bay. The beaches, suitable for activities like fossil hunting and games, are just a ten-minute walk from the site. The hostel's location provides easy access to Whitby's historical attractions and museums, all situated conveniently in the center of town. Additionally, public transport options are readily available. The exceptional site also features a good garden, enhancing the overall experience.
Parking
YHA Whitby offers several convenient parking options that guests frequently praise. Many commend the accessibility and the fact that parking is free, describing it as a significant bonus. There are good parking options onsite with some guests appreciating the ability to park right next to the hostel. Others mention the availability of parking at the Abbey and in the courtyard, making it convenient for visitors.
However, reviews also indicate that parking can sometimes be challenging. Some guests mention difficulties in finding the place, while others note limited parking spaces or that parking can be hit and miss. Although the small car park can fill up quickly, many still find the parking setup practical and handy for the duration of their stay.
Overall, the combination of free parking and the convenience of parking spaces directly outside the property provide a generally positive experience for those arriving by car, although planning ahead may be wise to avoid any potential issues.
4 Star
YHA Whitby offers a wonderful property at affordable pricing, providing a level of service and amenities comparable to a four-star hotel. The hostel's terrific location adds to its appeal, making it a fantastic base for exploring the area. Guests can enjoy an amazing breakfast with unlimited options available at the onsite cafe, setting a positive tone for the day. The accommodations, including superbly clean and spacious dormitories, ensure a comfortable stay with clean and tidy rooms and comfy beds. The overall cleanliness of the property receives high praise, contributing to a pleasant and hygienic environment for visitors.
Accessible
YHA Whitby is a welcoming and accessible destination for guests with disabilities, offering a range of amenities to ensure comfort and convenience. The hotel is equipped with disability support handlebars and bathrooms are appropriately designed to accommodate guests with disabilities. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, especially towards families with children, enhancing the overall pleasant experience.
The rooms, particularly rooms 8-10, are described as warm and comfortable with splendid views of Whitby. Some rooms also offer sea views, adding to the scenic charm of the stay. For convenience, there is a cafe on-site and guests receive a free admission ticket to the Abbey and museum, making for an enriching visit.
Accessibility is a priority at YHA Whitby with numerous mentions of good disabled access, easy access with a card and specific tweaks like lower bunks available on the ground floor. While the site is compact, it is well-equipped with all necessary facilities to support guests with disabilities. Overall, it is a clean, tidy and thoughtfully designed location that caters well to the needs of all visitors.
Historic
Nestled next to the iconic Whitby Abbey, YHA Whitby is celebrated for its remarkable historical significance and stunning views. Guests consistently highlight the charm and character of this beautiful old mansion, praising its preservation of historical features and the grandeur that reflects its storied past. The location is described as wonderful with many appreciating the tranquil gardens and spacious areas perfect for relaxation.
The historic building itself captures the essence of Whitby's rich heritage and visitors frequently express admiration for its interesting heritage and the abundant sense of history it emanates. The site, older than many countries, provides a unique lodging experience enriched by its proximity to the abbey, making it a favored choice for those who appreciate authenticity and a connection to the past.
FAQ
No, YHA Whitby doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at YHA Whitby.
No, YHA Whitby doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at YHA Whitby.
