St Hildas Catholic Church

The climb up to St Hilda's is steep - properly steep - but that's rather the point. Perched above Whitby on the East Cliff, this Victorian church commands views across the town and harbour that justify every step of the way up. The building itself is red brick and purposeful rather than ornate, the kind of place that speaks to the working people who built it in the 1880s.

Inside it's modest and honest: solid pews, decent stained glass, and an atmosphere that feels lived-in rather than museum-like. You're looking at maybe twenty minutes if you're just poking round, longer if you sit quietly for a bit. There's no admission charge, which seems about right for a working parish church rather than a tourist attraction playing dress-up.

Walkers and anyone who fancies proper views of the coast should definitely make the trek. Families with younger kids might find the uphill slog more trouble than it's worth - it's not a five-minute stroll. History types will appreciate the Victorian engineering, though it's not Whitby Abbey, so manage your expectations on that front.

Staying at Whitby Cliff Top Touring Park puts you practically on the doorstep, which takes the hassle out of the climb. Pair it with a walk down to the harbour front and you've got a solid hour or so. If you're doing the Whitby circuit, slot this in before the crowds hit the main attractions - early morning works best.