Whitby: Dracula 130 Years Anniversary Tour with Dacre Stoker
Yorkshire and The Humber, Manchester
Celebrate the 130th anniversary of Dracula on a 3-day tour of Whitby. Follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker with his great-grandnephew, Dacre Stoker, and visit the sites that inspired the novel.
Dracula 130th Anniversary Tour in Whitby and York
This three-day guided tour explores Whitby and York, suited for gothic literature fans eager to follow Bram Stoker’s inspiration for Dracula.
Highlights
- Visit Whitby Abbey and climb the iconic 199 steps to St. Mary’s Churchyard
- Raise a glass in honor of Bram Stoker’s 130-year legacy
- Experience a torch-lit guided walk through Whitby's narrow streets
- Trace Bram Stoker’s footsteps and uncover his sources of inspiration
Description
Celebrate 130 years since the publication of Dracula by visiting the key sites linked to Bram Stoker’s novel. The tour is led by Dacre Stoker, Bram Stoker’s great-grandnephew, offering authentic insights throughout the journey.
Day 1: Grand Dracula Jubilee & Stoker Gathering
Arrive in the coastal town of Whitby and join a welcome drink hosted by Dacre Stoker with views of the Abbey ruins. Take a walk through Whitby’s narrow streets to the Royal Crescent, mentioned in Dracula. Enjoy dinner near the ballroom where the Grand Stoker Gathering takes place. Participate in this historic event alongside gothic literature enthusiasts, many in Victorian costumes. Guests are encouraged to wear gothic or vampire-inspired attire. Dacre Stoker shares stories about his ancestor’s life, research, and writing.
Day 2: Whitby Abbey & Town Tour
Explore the ruins of Whitby Abbey, climbing the famous 199 steps with evocative readings from Dracula by Dacre Stoker. Visit St. Mary’s Churchyard to see the headstones that inspired Bram Stoker. Spend free time exploring Whitby, with options to visit the Whitby Museum or Captain Cook Museum. Enjoy dinner in the historical building that once housed the library where Bram Stoker learned about Vlad the Impaler. The day concludes with a torch-lit guided walk through Whitby.
Day 3: York’s Historical Layers
After breakfast, stop at Robin Hood’s Bay, another location mentioned in Dracula. Continue to York to see York Minster and explore the medieval Shambles before lunch at the historic Guy Fawkes Inn. The tour ends here for most; some guests continue on an optional Transylvania extension. York is well connected by train to Manchester and London.
Includes
- Dacre Stoker as tour host
- 2 nights accommodation in a 3-star hotel (double occupancy)
- 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
- Welcome drink and wine “bloodbag” on arrival
- Participation in the Festive Stoker Gathering
- Entrance to Whitby Abbey
- Atmospheric guided walking tour
- Private transfer from Whitby to York on final day
Excludes
- Flights and airport transfers (except for those continuing to Romania)
- Travel insurance and costs for unforeseen travel disruptions
- Additional meals and drinks
- Other activities and personal expenses
Important Information
- Payment accepted in three installments
- Victorian or gothic attire is encouraged for the Stoker Gathering
- Do not book flights before tour confirmation; if minimum attendance is not met, the tour will be canceled with a full refund
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start for a full refund.
For best experience, bring weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Book early as places are limited, especially for themed events and Dacre Stoker’s participation.
