Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey is a ruinous 7th century Benedictine abbey located in Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom. Built in 657 as a monastic house, it was a popular place of pilgrimage during the medieval era. After the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, it fell into a state of disrepair. Today, what remains gives insight both into medieval life, and the effects of Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries on the local population. Visitors can explore the ruins, the graveyard and the nearby St. Hilda's Church--all for free. Photographer's should note the dramatic structure of this gothic ruin.