Whitby Museum and Pannett Park

Whitby Museum was founded in 1823 by the town's Literary and Philosophical Society and still has the feel of a Victorian cabinet of curiosities. Its collections range from spectacular Jurassic fossils found along the coast, including marine reptiles, to ship models, whaling relics, Whitby jet jewellery, Captain Cook memorabilia and the Hand of Glory, a preserved human hand once used by burglars as a charm.

The museum stands in Pannett Park, a small, beautifully kept park on the West Cliff side of town, with floral displays, a play area and the town's art gallery in the same building. A good rainy-day option and a quiet escape from the harbourside crowds.