The town made eighth place in a top 10 list of Britain's Best Coastal Towns 2008 by Coast Magazine, which draws on a range of sources from Ofsted and police statistics to data on life expectancy, employment and beach quality.

Christchurch in Devon topped the list with Falmouth in Cornwall in second place.

Whitby was praised for "people wanting to return time and time again" and although the magazine says not all of the town's facilities are "top-notch" it says Whitby Community College, which was placed in special measures, has turned itself around for the better and there is a good Blue Flag beach.

Just last week Whitby was voted the best day out in England, winning gold in the Enjoy England Awards, coming above other areas and attractions. Other accolades for Whitby include being named Seaside Resort of the Year 2006 by Which? and claiming a spot in the Observer's 50 Best British Holidays .