The steps were originally made of wood before being replaced by stone in the 18th century.
A custom of counting the steps has been a long-standing tradition for visitors, though many often miscount due to the landings.
The staircase serves as a direct, steep ascent path for the Cleveland Way national trail.
Bram Stoker allegedly used the sight of these steps and the local abbey as inspiration for his depiction of Whitby in his novel Dracula.
The landings were historically included to allow pallbearers to rest while carrying coffins up to the clifftop churchyard.
The 199 Steps are a historic stone staircase in Whitby, North Yorkshire, connecting the town's harbour and old town to the clifftop site of Whitby Abbey and St. Mary’s Church. Originally constructed in the 14th century, the steps were historically used by worshippers to reach the church from the port. The staircase is built from local stone and features wooden landings at intervals that served as resting points. The climb offers an elevated perspective of the River Esk estuary and the North Sea coastline. The path is a central component of the route leading to the ruins of the 7th-century Benedictine abbey. The structure is maintained by local authorities and remains open to the public as a pedestrian walkway. Visitors often ascend the flight to reach the graveyard surrounding St. Mary’s Church, which contains connections to Bram Stoker’s literary work.
The mid-point landing looking back down toward the harbour and red-roofed town buildings.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the stone can become slick in wet weather.
Use the designated resting benches located on the wooden landing sections if the climb becomes strenuous.
Check weather conditions beforehand, as wind speeds at the top of the cliff can be significantly higher than at the harbour level.
Attempting the climb in heavy rain or high winds, as the stone steps can become hazardous.
Respect the churchyard at the top, which is an active burial ground; maintain a quiet and somber demeanor.
