The Whitby Murders by J. R. Ellis

October 4th · 2-night stay

Whitby's narrow streets, bustling harbour and dramatic abbey have inspired countless stories, but in The Whitby Murders, J. R. Ellis transforms the famous seaside town into the setting for a gripping modern murder mystery. During the town's renowned Goth Weekend, what begins as an entertaining Dracula-themed escape room soon turns into a real-life investigation that challenges DCI Jim Oldroyd and his team.

This immersive reading retreat invites you to discover the Whitby behind the novel. Wander its atmospheric streets, soak up the coastal scenery, explore the landmarks that give the story its unmistakable character, and enjoy lively discussions with fellow readers as we unravel the mystery together.

What to expect:

• Two nights' accommodation at Resolution Hotel, Whitby, perfectly located in the heart of the old town
• Explore the streets, harbour and iconic landmarks that provide the backdrop to The Whitby Murders
• Visit Whitby Abbey and the famous 199 Steps while discovering why the town continues to inspire crime and Gothic fiction alike
• A hosted book club dinner with a private space to discuss the novel, its characters and the twists of the investigation
• Free time to browse Whitby's independent shops, cafés and beautiful coastline
• Breakfast each morning and a hosted dinner included during the stay

Itinerary

Day 1 · October 4th · Arrival

Arrive in Whitby and check into the hotel at your leisure. In the early evening we'll gather for a welcome meal at the famous Magpie Café, Whitby's much-loved fish and chip restaurant overlooking the harbour. It's the perfect opportunity to meet fellow readers, settle into the weekend and begin talking about the mystery that awaits us.

Day 2 · October 5th · Whitby & The Whitby Murders

Following breakfast we'll explore the locations that make Whitby such a compelling setting for crime fiction. We'll stroll through the historic harbour, wander the atmospheric cobbled streets, visit St Mary's Church, climb the famous 199 Steps and enjoy the spectacular views from Whitby Abbey.

Along the way we'll discuss how J. R. Ellis uses Whitby's unique atmosphere to build tension throughout the novel and why this remarkable town has become synonymous with mystery, suspense and Gothic storytelling.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Visit the independent bookshops, browse Whitby's quirky boutiques, enjoy a walk along the coastline or simply relax with a coffee while continuing the novel.

In the evening we'll meet for our hosted book club dinner in a private dining room to discuss The Whitby Murders, share theories, favourite characters and unexpected plot twists, while enjoying excellent food in great company.

Day 3 · October 6th · Departure

After breakfast and checkout there's time for one final wander through Whitby's historic streets or a last visit to the harbour before beginning the journey home, taking with you fresh memories of one of Yorkshire's most atmospheric towns and a deeper appreciation of the novel that brought it to life.

Blending literary discussion, coastal exploration and the warm company of fellow book lovers, this Whitby reading retreat offers the perfect opportunity to experience one of Britain's finest crime novels in the place that inspired it.

To ensure everyone stays together throughout the trip, accommodation has been arranged at the centrally located Resolution Hotel, Whitby. Its comfortable rooms and excellent location place you within easy walking distance of the harbour, abbey, historic streets and many of the locations that make both Whitby and The Whitby Murders such unforgettable experiences.