Whitby Goes Gothic!
Here is the Riviera Guesthouse guide to getting the most out of the Whitby Goth Weekend ® experience.
The Spring 2026 event takes place Thursday 30th April, Friday 1st, Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May 2026.
Details correct at time of posting, so please check dates and timings before you book/travel.
What Is The History Of The Festival?
The event was founded in 1994 by Jo Hampshire and is known as one of the world’s premier Goth events.
It was held in the Elsinor pub, and as the years went by, it ‘spoke’ to so many, from traditional Goths to Steampunks and many more.
The event is also known as Whitby Gothic Weekend, Whitby Goth Festival and WGW, which are all trademarked names.
Whitby is transformed for two weekends a year: the second event takes place in November.
Stunning costumes, live acts and incredible market stalls are just some of the highlights of the events.
It’s the twice yearly gathering of all things gothic and it is a truly amazing spectacle that touches all the senses.
Is Whitby Haunted?
If you’ve visited Whitby on a foggy day, or in the depths of winter, or perhaps as the evening falls, you can feel the unique atmosphere of the town.
There are many ghosts and ghouls connected with the town.
Whitby is also famous for its links to Count Dracula, the famous vampiric character penned by Bram Stoker.
He stayed just around the corner from the Riviera.
Of course, the 199 Steps leading towards the Abbey is a must do, as is a visit to St Mary’s Church.
How Busy Does Whitby Get During WGW?
Many of the town’s businesses get in the Gothic mood, too, so expect the unexpected.
It is safe to say that Whitby gets very busy during the WGW® events.
However, if you plan ahead, then the hustle and bustle can be part of the fun!
You can book your room with us subject to availability. and you can also plan ahead for parking, transport and more with our helpful parking blog.
Where Does The Event Take Place?
The event includes workshops, talks, parties, exhibitions , performances, alternative markets and music and as such, venues are spread around the town.
The website is a mine of information and includes the music events and their venues. along with the various venues that host the events.
Spring’s venues include Whitby Leisure Centre (five minutes’ walk from the Riviera), the Brunswick Centre (ten minutes on foot) and the Royal Hotel (literally just around the corner from us).
Shopping and other events During WGW®
Whitby is festooned with artisan, independent shops which sell handcrafted items and bespoke pieces.
The WGW® festival also hosts a number of retailers, discover more here
The event includes the Alternative Markets in Whitby Leisure Centre, and the Brunswick Centre Bizarre Bazaar.
You can also find out more by browsing the Dark Directory here.
Is The Festival Suitable for Dogs and Kids?
This event is suitable for families and could provide a really varied and interesting experience for children.
Dogs are permitted providing owners know the area will be busy.
What About Places to Eat?
Whitby is a foodie paradise with a huge variety of eateries in the town.
From fish and chip to Thai food (and anything in between) there’s lots to choose from
We have a list of places to dine out which you can see here.
If you can, it might be worth booking a table well in advance …
Is the Riviera Guesthouse Close to the Action?
Our location is just a hop, skip and jump away from the iconic Whalebone Arch and the Captain Cook monument, so we are easy to find.
We also no more than 15-minutes (on foot) from most of the WGW venues.
What To Do Next?
Why not plan a visit?
About the Riviera Guesthouse
If you are looking to escape for a classic seaside break, there is no better destination than Whitby. Recognised as the epitome of a British seaside holiday, Whitby has everything you could ask for and more.
Boasting one of the best locations for accommodation in town is the Riviera. Our family-friendly guest house has received several awards for excellence in guest satisfaction.
What’s more you won’t find a better outlook in Whitby than here, with panoramic views out to the dramatic North Sea, Whitby Harbour and across to the next bay of Sandsend from our comfortably appointed en suite bedrooms and dining rooms.
