Whitby Goes Gothic!
The second Whitby Goth Weekend® (WGW® for short) takes place Friday 1st, Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd November 2024 and the event promises to be a spooktacular one!
Here is the Riviera Guesthouse guide to getting the most out of the WGW® experience.
30 Years of WGW®
The event was founded in 1994 by Jo Hampshire and is known as one of the world’s premier Goth events.
The event is also known as Whitby Gothic Weekend®, Whitby Goth Festival® and WGW®.
Whitby Goth Weekend®, Whitby Gothic Weekend®, Whitby Goth Festival®, WGW®, and the WGW logo® are registered trademarks of Top Mum Promotions.
Whitby is transformed for two weekends a year, the other taking place in April on an annual basis.
Amazing costumes, live acts and incredible market stalls form part of this hugely popular event.
You can find out more with the official WGW® guide.
What Gothic Connections Does Whitby Have?
As you know from our previous blogs articles we’ve penned here at here Riviera Guesthouse, there are many ghosts and ghouls connected with the town.
Whitby is also famous for its links to Count Dracula, the iconic vampiric character penned by Bram Stoker.
Whitby is also known for its history, from the stunning Whitby Abbey to its timeless maritime connections.
The 199 Steps leading towards the Abbey is a must do, as is a visit to St Mary’s Church.
Our blog on the top ten things to do in Whitby will give you some inspiration.
How Busy Does Whitby Get During WGW®?
Whitby is a town that attracts visitors all year round.
The busiest events are usually Whitby Regatta which takes place in August each year, and the two WGW® events.
Lots of the town’s businesses get in the Gothic mood, too, so expect the unexpected.
It is safe to say, though, if you don’t like crowds, then it might be wise to visit us another time.
The town does get very busy.
However, if you plan ahead, then the hustle and bustle can be part of the fun!
Shopping During WGW®
Whitby is festooned with artisan, independent shops which sell handcrafted items and bespoke pieces.
It is a town famous for its jet, the precious gemstone that can be found along the Yorkshire Coast.
Find out more here about Whitby Jet.
Whitby Goth 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.
What Entertainment Is There During WGW®?
Live entertainment will take place during WGW®.
WGW® includes free DJ nights at the Abbey Wharf throughout the festival along with much more.
Take a look in more detail here.
Is WGW® Suitable for Dogs and Kids?
This event is suitable for families and provides really varied and interesting experience for children.
While dogs are welcome, it’s maybe best to attend either early in the day or from late afternoon as the streets get packed.
What About Places to Eat?
There are countless foodie places to eat at in Whitby and the best advice we can give is … be patient!
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?
Here at the Riviera Guesthouse, we are close to all the Goth action!
Our location is just a hop, skip and jump away from the Whalebone Arch and the Captain Cook monument.
These iconic landmarks overlook Whitby and the various locations where WGW® takes place twice a year.
What To Do Next?
If we’ve whetted your appetite, then 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.
We have panoramic views out to the dramatic North Sea and Whitby Harbour.
Our guesthouse includes views across to the next bay of Sandsend from our comfortably appointed en suite bedrooms and dining rooms.
