St Matthew

The walk into Whitby takes you past St Matthew, a Victorian church that sits slightly removed from the town's chaos, which is rather the point. Built in the 19th century when the port was booming, it's a solid red-brick affair with decent proportions - nothing fancy, but there's something honest about it. The interior holds the kind of detail that makes a proper church visit worthwhile: decent stained glass, a well-kept chancel, and the sort of quiet that makes you actually hear yourself think.

It's worth a stop if you're exploring Whitby itself rather than a destination trip on its own. History buffs will appreciate the Victorian craftsmanship, and if you're tired of the crowds around the abbey on the cliff top, this offers a bit of breathing room. The church keeps itself in good order, and the staff are helpful if you turn up during opening hours - though do check ahead, as times can shift.

If you're staying at Broadings Farm Caravan Site just down the road, this works as a gentle fifteen-minute walk into town. It breaks up the journey nicely and gives you a sense of how ordinary Whitby residents actually worshipped rather than just where the tourists flock. Allow half an hour if you want to look properly. Free entry, as most parish churches are. Not unmissable, but if you're already in the area, there's no reason to skip it.