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Top 18 Natural Monuments around Whitby

Best natural monuments around Whitby include a diverse range of coastal features, woodlands, and waterfalls. The region offers dramatic coastlines, expansive moorlands, and serene forest settings. These sites provide opportunities for exploration and immersion in nature. Whitby's location on the edge of the North York Moors National Park contributes to its varied natural landscape.

Best natural monuments around Whitby

  • The most popular natural monuments is Mallyan Spout Waterfall, a natural_monument that is the tallest waterfall in the North York…

Last updated: October 31, 2026

Mallyan Spout Waterfall

Highlight • Natural Monument

With a vertical drop of 70 feet (21 m), Mallyan Spout is the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors. When you arrive at the waterfall, prepare to have your …

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An amazing circular room cut into a huge block of grit stone. Inside, the single room is a seat cut around the edge. It's said that this was made in …

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Waterfall Near Beck Hole

Highlight • Natural Monument

Be prepared to negotiate muddy paths and slippery rocks!

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Black Nab

Highlight • Natural Monument

Bit of confusion going on here. This is actually Black Nab, which looks like a submarine conning tower at high tide, as as the tide slowly ebbs, it looks as …

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Falling Foss

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Falling Foss is a beautiful waterfall situated in picturesque woodland. There is an intriguing hermit cave nearby, and tearooms, as well as lots of lovely walking to enjoy in the area.

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Popular around Whitby

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Ninjakate
April 15, 2025, Falling Foss Waterfall

End of the Coast to Coast Walk.

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Whilst this waterfall is relatively accessible, as others point out it is a bit of a scramble, with the rocks still quite slippery and treacherous in the height of summer, as they are permanently in the shade and damp. In summer, the valley that the track to the waterfall runs through provides welcome respite from the heat of the day.

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Many of the photos posted are actually Thomason Foss, which is 50m further upstream. This little waterfall is very broad and shallow, almost like a set of rapids, with lots of huge flat boulders flanking the northern shore that make a perfect perch for an impromptu rest. Note that the track from Beck Hole to this waterfall is very boggy in places, and part of the track is very high up and narrow, making it slightly difficult to navigate in summer when the gorse bushes are encroaching over the track. Slow and steady with good footwear is essential.

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RichD
June 23, 2024, Black Nab

Bit of confusion going on here. This is actually Black Nab, which looks like a submarine conning tower at high tide, as as the tide slowly ebbs, it looks as if a submarine's casing is appearing. Some of the photos in this highlight do look like a profile view of a whale, but that is Saltwick Nab which is a couple hundred metres further north.

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Very muddy in places

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Another place to enjoy.

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What a interesting place this must of taken a lot of making back in the day 1790.

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It is said the Hermitage dates back to the 18th century and that it was the home of a hermit who lived a life of foraging for fuel and food in the woods. The Hermitage is ideal for an emergency bivvy shelter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular natural monuments around Whitby?

Among the most popular natural monuments around Whitby are Mallyan Spout Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors, and Falling Foss, a beautiful waterfall nestled in picturesque woodland. Visitors also frequently enjoy Black Nab, a distinctive rock formation on the coast.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Whitby?

Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. Black Nab, located on the coast, is considered family-friendly. Whitby's beaches, such as West Cliff Beach and Sandsend, offer sandy expanses perfect for rock pooling and paddling. Dalby Forest also provides 13 set walking trails, including accessible routes suitable for all abilities.

What kind of geological features can I explore along the Whitby coastline?

The Whitby coastline is rich in geological features. Saltwick Bay, near Whitby Abbey, is famous for its distinctive rocky outcrop, Black Nab, and is a significant site for fossil hunting, with ammonite and reptile fossils often found. At low tide, the shipwreck of the *Admiral Von Tromp* can also be seen.

Are there any historical natural sites or unique caves to visit?

Yes, you can explore The Hermitage (North York Moors), a fascinating circular room cut into a huge block of grit stone, believed to be an 18th-century folly. Near Falling Foss, there's also an intriguing hermit cave to discover.

What are the best walking routes to explore Whitby's natural monuments?

The North York Moors National Park, which borders Whitby, offers extensive walking opportunities. The Cleveland Way provides spectacular coastal views. For more options, you can find various routes in the Hiking around Whitby guide, including trails like the Whitby and Sandsend Circular.

Where can I find impressive waterfalls near Whitby?

Whitby is home to several impressive waterfalls. Mallyan Spout Waterfall in Goathland is the tallest in the North York Moors, with a 21-meter drop. Falling Foss, located in Sneaton Forest, is another beautiful waterfall in a picturesque woodland setting. You can also find a Waterfall Near Beck Hole, though the path can be challenging.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

Beyond exploring the monuments themselves, the area offers a range of outdoor activities. Dalby Forest is excellent for walking and cycling. The North York Moors National Park provides vast opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. You can find specific routes for different activities in guides like Easy hikes around Whitby and Running Trails around Whitby.

Are there any hidden natural gems or secluded spots worth visiting?

Yes, Boggle Hole is described as a charming, hidden-away location with a private cove, offering a peaceful escape from busier areas. Saltwick Bay, while known for fossils, is also a more secluded alternative to other popular coastal spots.

What is the best time of year to visit Whitby's natural monuments?

The summer months are ideal for experiencing the North York Moors, as the heather blooms, creating a stunning purple landscape. Coastal areas like Saltwick Bay and Whitby's beaches are also very enjoyable in warmer weather. However, waterfalls like Mallyan Spout and Falling Foss can be impressive year-round, especially after rainfall.

What should I wear when exploring the natural beauty spots around Whitby?

Sturdy shoes are highly recommended, especially for paths leading to waterfalls like Mallyan Spout and Falling Foss, which can be technical, muddy, and slippery. Layered clothing is advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions, particularly on the coast and moors.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting near Whitby's natural monuments?

Absolutely. The North York Moors National Park is an internationally important wildlife habitat, supporting a wide range of species. Its diverse ecosystems make it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Coastal areas also offer opportunities for birdwatching and spotting marine life in rock pools.

Can I find woodland areas for walks near Whitby?

Yes, Mulgrave Woods, close to Whitby, offers 2500 acres of woodland with veteran trees and historical remnants. Sneaton Forest is another beautiful woodland area, home to Falling Foss and The Hermitage. Dalby Forest also provides extensive woodland trails for all abilities.

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Family-friendly hikes around Whitby

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Whitby:

WesterdaleEgtonSneatonLCPs of Fylingdales and Hawsker-cum-StainsacreGoathlandFylingdalesCommondaleEskdaleside Cum UgglebarnbyDarncombe-Cum-Langdale EndDanbyReightonHawsker-Cum-StainsacreHarwood DaleAislabyNewholm-Cum-DunsleyLytheHutton MulgraveStainton DaleGrosmontGlaisdaleBroxa-Cum-TroutsdaleHacknessSuffield-Cum-EverleySilphoSnaintonUgthorpeBarnbyBromptonCloughtonWykehamHutton BuscelNewton MulgraveWest AytonNewby And ScalbyBurnistonMicklebyRoxbyEllerbyBorrowbyHunmanbyHinderwellFileyFolktonSeamerEast AytonGristhorpeEastfieldIrton

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