Whitby Museum

This independent museum located in North Yorkshire is housed in a beautiful Victorian building, and offers a captivating exploration of Whitby's rich history and culture. Highlights include fossils, ship models, photographs, textiles, local and natural history.

What to see

Immerse yourself in the town's maritime history through exhibits featuring model ships, navigational instruments, and items related to whaling and fishing, with a special wing dedicated to Captain James Cook.

Explore exhibits that delve into the daily lives of Whitby residents, including their clothing, horology, toys, and household items. Discover one of the finest collections of Jurassic fossils in Britain, and specimens of animals, birds and insects which have been preserved and mounted. Keep an eye out for the gruesome ‘Hand of Glory’.

Admire the Jet Collection

Whitby is famous for its jet, a black gemstone that has been crafted into jewelry for centuries. The museum showcases a beautiful collection of jet items, including necklaces, bracelets, and carved figurines.

Browse the Photography Collection

The museum has an extensive photographic collection, including glass plate and film negatives, slides and prints. See works by well-known local photographers Frank Meadow Sutcliffe, Tom Watson, Hugh Lambert-Smith, the Doran Brothers, John Tindale and Des Sythes.

Temporary exhibitions

The museum has annually changing exhibitions designed to complement the main gallery. and also stages events and talks linked to its collection throughout the year.