Help us achieve cleaner seas and beaches

MCS now recommends twice as many
beaches for excellent water quality than 10 years ago. To continue we need your help...

Whitby

Whitby, North Yorkshire

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Lat/Long

54.5N 0.6W

Water grade 2011

MCS Recommended — Highest UK standard for bathing water quality. Only sites with properly treated
continuous sewage discharge (if any) considered. All available data from Summer 2010 used.

Guideline - European standard for good water quality. All available data from Summer 2010 used.

Basic pass - European minimum standard for water quality. Waterborne pathogens present in quantities
known to cause illness. All available data from Summer 2010 used.

Fail – Failed the European minimum standard. Waterborne pathogens present in high levels.
MCS advises against swimming. All available data from Summer 2010 used.

Stay out of the sea for at least 48 hours after a storm to avoid exposure to storm pollution.

See our "Clean seas matter" page to find out more about water quality standards.

MCS Recommended

2011: MCS Recommended

2010: MCS Recommended

2009: MCS Recommended

2008: MCS Recommended

Local sewage outflows

Sewage discharges which may be affecting the water quality at this beach.
See "Clean seas matter" to find out more about sewage treatment.

tertiary discharge, 3 combined sewer overflows

European designated bathing water

European Designated beaches are officially recognised bathing
waters which have to meet European water quality standards.

Lifeguarded

RNLI Lifeguard service May 28th - September 4th

A sandy and rocky beach backed by cliffs. Whitby was the home of Captain James Cook and has welcomed visitors to its sandy shore for hundreds of years. It is usually favored by the younger generation.