If you’re planning a trip to the charming seaside town of Whitby and want to get to know it beyond just the Instagram shots, this self-guided audio tour might be just what you’re looking for. Designed to be flexible and informative, it promises to introduce you to the town’s most beloved spots and hidden gems, all at your own pace.
Two things we really like about this experience: first, the lifetime access to the tour means you can revisit the stories and sights anytime—great for soaking it all in without the rush. Second, the local guide’s quirky facts and background info really bring the town’s legends to life, making it more than just a walk through pretty streets.
Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that since this is a self-guided tour, you’ll need your own smartphone and headphones, and you’ll want to be comfortable navigating on your own. Also, since entrance fees to attractions like museums aren’t included, budget accordingly if you plan to go inside any venues.
This tour suits travelers who love a mix of history, storytelling, and the freedom to explore at their own pace. If you’re a fan of self-led adventures that blend sightseeing with local tales, this might be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Flexible Self-Guided Format: Enjoy a personalized walking experience at your own pace, with the freedom to stop and explore.
- Lifetime Access: Once purchased, you’ll have ongoing access to the tour details and audio, making revisits easy.
- Rich Local Stories: The guide shares quirky facts and legends that bring Whitby’s character to life.
- Practical Tools: Includes maps, audio, and geodata that work offline—no Wi-Fi needed during your walk.
- Budget-Friendly: Cost is just $9.99, with no extra charges for access or additional content.
- Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect if you prefer an immersive experience without big group tours or fixed schedules.
Getting to Know the Tour: An In-Depth Look
Starting right next to the Captain Cook Memorial Statue, the tour kicks off in a spot rich with maritime history. From the get-go, it sets a tone of discovery, inviting you to look beyond the obvious and explore Whitby’s stories, legends, and landmarks on your own terms.
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The Itinerary & What You’ll See
1. Captain Cook Memorial Statue
This is the perfect starting point. Whitby’s connection to Captain James Cook is legendary, and the statue commemorates his voyages. From here, your audio guide begins unfolding tales of exploration and adventure that are woven into the town’s identity.
2. Outside The Granby pub
A brief stop, but a chance to imagine the local pub scene that’s been part of Whitby’s social life for years. Small, simple, and authentic—this stop hints at the everyday charm of the town.
3. Pannett Park
A lush green space offering a break from the streets. The tour takes you around the park, sharing stories of its history and perhaps some of the local characters who frequent it. We loved the way the guide adds a personal touch, making parks feel like part of the town’s living history.
4. Church of Saint John the Evangelist
Passing by this church, you’ll get a taste of Whitby’s spiritual side. The guide offers little snippets about the church’s significance and architecture, adding context beyond just the visual.
5. Captain Cook Memorial Museum
A must-see for anyone interested in maritime history. While the ticket isn’t included, you’ll get enough background to appreciate why it’s a centerpiece of Whitby’s heritage.
6. Tate Hill Pier
Walking onto the pier, you get views of the coast and the harbor, with the audio sharing tales of Whitby’s fishing history and maritime legends. The scenery alone is worth the stroll.
7. 199 Steps Memorial
This iconic set of stairs is a highlight. The guide shares stories about the steps’ history and their role in the town’s life. It’s a good spot for photos and to appreciate Whitby’s quaint, historic vibe.
8. Church of St Mary
Another spiritual site, this church adds to the layered history of the area. The narration here delves into stories about the town’s religious past, local legends, and architecture.
9. Whitby Abbey
The tour concludes outside Whitby Abbey, one of the most famous landmarks. The audio gives a vivid picture of its history and legends, making the ruins even more atmospheric. If you want to go inside, be aware entrance fees aren’t included, but the view and stories make the visit worthwhile.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Knowledgeable Local Guide & Fun Facts:
Reviews consistently mention how the stories are delivered with a friendly, knowledgeable tone. Jessica called the guide “fun & very knowledgeable,” which captures the mood well. The stories aren’t just dry facts—they sprinkle in curiosities and legends that make the walk lively and memorable.
Flexibility & Ease of Use:
The audio app (VoiceMap) works smoothly on both Android and iOS, and the offline access means no worries about connectivity. The clear directions and maps keep you on track without fuss, even if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Value for Money:
At just under $10, the tour offers long-lasting access and a curated experience that you can repeat or revisit anytime. Given the number of stops, stories, and the ease of self-guided exploration, it’s a good deal for independent travelers.
Reviews Highlight the Personal Touch
Many reviewers appreciated how the guide pointed out things they’d have easily missed otherwise. Amanda noted it “points out things we’d have missed,” emphasizing how this tour enhances your sightseeing without the need for a guide physically present.
Practical Aspects
Duration & Pace:
Most travelers report spending about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, making it a manageable chunk of a day’s sightseeing. The leisurely pace allows you to stop, take photos, and absorb the stories.
Booking & Availability:
Most bookings are made around 9 days in advance, giving you plenty of lead time. The tour is available daily, with access open from noon to midnight, so you can plan around your schedule.
What’s Not Included:
As with most self-guided tours, entrance fees, food, and transportation aren’t part of the package. So, if you plan to visit museums or attractions, budget extra. Also, you’ll need your smartphone and headphones.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking independent, flexible sightseeing. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of history, legends, and scenic walking. Because it’s self-guided and doesn’t involve a group or guide, it suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups who like to explore at their own pace.
If you love stories and local myths, you’ll find this tour adds a rich layer of context to your visit. It’s especially good for those who want to take their time, enjoy the scenery, and learn in a more relaxed, personal way.
The Sum Up
All in all, this self-guided audio tour of Whitby offers a smart way to explore the town’s highlights and hidden stories without the constraints of a scheduled group tour. The combination of affordable price, lifetime access, and engaging storytelling makes it appealing for curious visitors eager to learn about Whitby’s legends and landmarks.
While it doesn’t include inside visits to attractions, it compensates with the wealth of background stories, scenic stops, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy self-led adventures, want to discover local lore, and appreciate a flexible sightseeing schedule.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Whitby explorer, this tour provides a lively, informative companion that will help you see the town through the eyes of someone who truly knows its stories.
Essential Whitby: Discover the towns legends on a self-guided audio tour
“Was great to walk at own pace and have an individual tour by some who knew the local area and history. As the tour used your allocation you could s…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s a self-guided walk with audio, it generally suits most ages capable of walking and listening comfortably. It’s not specifically designed for children, but older kids interested in history and legends might enjoy it.
Do I need to download anything beforehand?
You’ll need the VoiceMap app, which is available for Android and iOS. Once you purchase the tour, you get access to downloads for offline use, so no need for constant internet.
How long does the tour take?
Most people spend about an hour to just over an hour and a quarter walking and listening, but you can take longer if you wish to linger at spots.
Are tickets to attractions included?
No, entry to museums or other attractions is not included, so budget for that if you plan to explore inside.
Can I stop the tour and revisit later?
Absolutely. One of the best features is the lifetime access, so you can pause, revisit, or walk sections again whenever you want.
Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour is available from December 2020 through July 2026, and the app can be used anytime during those hours, from noon to midnight daily.
What should I bring on the walk?
Comfortable walking shoes, your phone with the VoiceMap app, headphones, and perhaps a bottle of water. No need for physical tickets or additional gear.
If you’re a traveler who loves exploring towns at your own speed, uncovering local stories, and enjoying scenic walks, this Whitby audio tour offers a balanced, engaging way to enjoy the town’s charm.
