White Horse and Griffin
Church Street, Whitby's old town · Inn
View on Google MapsPhoto: The White Horse & Griffin
A historic coaching inn on Church Street in Whitby's old town, with rooms above a working restaurant and bar.
Photos
Photos via Google
About White Horse and Griffin
The White Horse and Griffin stands on Church Street, in the heart of Whitby's old town, and is one of the oldest properties in a town built on smuggling and seafaring history. Its rooms, a mix of twin, double, king and family layouts, sit above a working restaurant and bar that trades on the building's centuries-old atmosphere, along with a self-contained cottage for those wanting more privacy.
Breakfast and brunch are served daily, and the restaurant and bar operate as a destination in their own right for evening dining, with a menu built around local produce and a well-kept range of ales. The inn also holds Walkers Welcome and Cyclists Welcome accreditation, reflecting its position on the Cleveland Way and its popularity with those exploring the coast on foot or by bike.
Being on Church Street places guests within a minute or two of the 199 Steps, the jet shops and the harbourside, making it one of the most centrally located places to stay in Whitby, ideal for those who want to be in the thick of the old town rather than looking down on it from the cliff.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
The dark and cosy, narrow bar downstairs is somewhere I could nurse a drink for hours swapping ghost stories with the other patrons, but unfortunately we chose to have dinner here. We were seated in the upstairs room which although interesting and historic was also out of sight and mind of the serving staff. We were exhausted after a long day's hike and food took 90 minutes to arrive. I was almost starting to eat my own face. The staff were seemingly completely oblivious to the passing time and offered no apology or explanation, even when my hungry children were literally curled up asleep on a bench. When the food finally arrived the fish pie did not disappoint - a generous and piping hot serving with lots of fish! Unfortunately, the rest of the food was pretty terrible. The gravy was watery (come on, Yorkshire) and the meat bland. The vegetables were underdone (no where near al dente). The staff seemed surprised when we wanted to pay and leave so quickly. Absolutely terrible customer service! The staff couldn't have cared less.
2 weeks ago · via Google
Small pub with very nice dining room to the rear. Don't be put off by the slightly dark and narrow approach to the bar, the restaurant is very cosy. Great menu, well presented, all 4 of is thoroughly enjoyed our meals. We had a bit of a wait for our food but it was well worth it. I had rockerfeller oysters, cured salmon and fish pie. Each element was excellent Nice, friendly efficient serving staff.
4 weeks ago · via Google
A wonderful afternoon in this characterful pub enjoying a Sunday roast. We hadn’t booked but accommodated at short notice. Service was attentive and professional, food was outstanding. We enjoyed the crab on toast as a starter which was sublime. The dressing was perfectly balanced with the fresh crab and portion sizes were perfect. It had to be beef for our main and this was pink and tender and full of flavour. A really enjoyable afternoon and great value for money, will be returning soon.
2 months ago · via Google
I’m really disappointed to be writing this as someone who has visited this pub before. However, after our most recent visit, I won’t be returning anytime soon. We came in to celebrate my partner’s birthday. We didn’t have a booking, but from the moment we arrived, the waitress (female with long dark hair — I don’t know her name) was cold and unwelcoming. Her attitude made us feel like we were an inconvenience. There was no warmth, no smile, and no effort to create a pleasant atmosphere. Her tone was dismissive and abrupt, and it genuinely felt like she didn’t want us there. That kind of energy really brings down the morale and atmosphere of a pub, especially when you’re trying to celebrate a special occasion. It’s such a shame because the food was amazing and the kitchen deserves real credit. But service is just as important as the food, and unfortunately her attitude overshadowed what should have been a lovely birthday meal. Considering this experience, I won’t be returning any time soon.
5 months ago · via Google
People say this inn offers delicious food, including excellent Sunday roasts, fresh seafood like oysters and crab, and a variety of vegetarian options. They also highlight the charming, historic atmosphere, friendly staff, and good value for money.
Some reviews mention the service can be inconsistent.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Seasons, 87 Church Street, Whitby, YO22 4BH Get directions
- Property type
- Inn
- Location
- Church Street, Whitby's old town
- Star rating
- 3 star
- Guest score
- 8.4 / 10 (890 reviews)
- Prices from
- £95 per night
- Good for children
- No
- Destination
- Whitby