Whitby June-July 1945

Despite being shot during the closing stages of the Second World War, Whitby appears full of tranquillity and peace.

Fishermen, holidaymakers, and wartime Whitby residents can be seen quietly going about their business in this amateur film, which features many of Whitby’s most well-known landmarks.

Whitby has been a popular summer holiday destination in Yorkshire for decades. In addition to revenue from fishing, the town’s economy relies heavily on tourism. Whitby Abbey is arguably the most notable structure in the town. It was established in 657AD and disestablished by Henry VIII in 1538. The Abbey now lies in ruins and is protected by English Heritage.