Whitby Abbey to open for special late-night Christmas shopping event

The shop sells tasty treats like mead, Whitby Gin and biscuits, as well as Whitby Jet jewellery, tote bags, mugs and clothing with a Whitby or Dracula theme.

The shop is a truly unique destination and is stacked with quirky abbey themed items reflecting the property’s 2000 years of history.

Children from West Cliff Primary School will also be joining the event, filling the space with the joyful sound of traditional Christmas carols.

Their performance is set to bring an extra touch of warmth and festive spirit to the evening, offering visitors a charming and uplifting musical experience as they browse.

Their enthusiastic singing has become a much-loved highlight and promises to create a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Sarah Douglas, English Heritage’s site manager at Whitby Abbey said: “We have such a wonderful array of unusual gifts here and we wanted to open up a little later to give the good people of Whitby a chance to come in when it’s a little quieter to do some Christmas shopping.

“We’ll have hot mead tasting on offer and medieval festive music in the background.

“There’s something for everyone but for those who are tricky to buy for, I’d recommend the gift of an English Heritage membership which allows access into so many special places around the country.

“One of the things we’re most excited about this year is welcoming children from West Cliff Primary School, who’ll be filling the shop with the joyful sound of Christmas carols.

“Their singing will bring warmth and charm to the evening – really capturing the spirit of the season.

“Visitors can look forward to a lively mix of traditional favourites and cheerful classics; all performed with the enthusiasm only children can bring.”

Whitby Abbey has now moved to winter opening times of Wednesday to Sunday’s 10am to 4pm.

The shop will be open on Saturday, December 6 from 6pm to 9pm.