Old Town Hall
Discover Whitby's Grade II listed Old Town Hall, a striking Georgian landmark with a clock tower in the heart of the historic market square.
The Old Town Hall is a magnificent Grade II listed Georgian building located in the vibrant Market Square Clock Tower area of Whitby. Completed in 1812, this neoclassical architectural gem was designed by Jonathan Pickernell, also known for his work on Whitby Harbour's inner piers. It stands as a testament to the town's rich history, offering a picturesque focal point in the historic quarter, close to the iconic 199 steps leading to Whitby Abbey. Visitors frequently praise its appealing architecture and prime location for photography.
Originally built with an open ground floor to facilitate market trading, the upper floor of the Old Town Hall is impressively supported by columns and accessed via a central spiral staircase. While its primary role today is as a cherished historical landmark, the surrounding square often hosts small market stalls, adding to the bustling atmosphere. These stalls typically offer a variety of local clothing, jewellery, crafts, and souvenirs, alongside a busy cafe, echoing its historic function as a centre for commerce and community. The Old Town Hall enjoys an excellent reputation, boasting a 4.8/5 star rating from numerous visitors.
Visiting Information
Please note that specific opening hours for the interior of the Old Town Hall are not provided. Similarly, information regarding accessibility features and accepted payment options is currently unavailable. Visitors can enjoy the exterior and the surrounding market area at their leisure.
from 12 reviews
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Showing 5 of 12 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 31 January 2026.
The grade 2 listed Old Town Hall finished in 1812 was built with an open ground floor for Market trading. Lots of market stalls around the bottom of the town hall during certain events. The upper floor is supported on columns and accessed by a spiral staircase in the centre. A great place for photographing goths and steampunk during the Whitby Goth festival held in April and October.
Attractive Grade 2 listed building in neoclassical style built in 1788. Designed by the same person who did the two inner piers of Whitby Harbour, Jonathan Pickernell.
An interesting Georgian building with a clock tower in a lively market square. It's in Whitby's historic quarter close to the 199 steps up to the abbey. The market is only small but has a few nice stalls selling clothing, jewellery, crafts and souvenirs, and there's a busy little café. There are some toilets behind the market (40p to use them but they were clean). Ghost walks start from here in the evenings. The quaint narrow streets are full of little shops, cafes and workshops where you can see how Whitby jet jewellery is made.
The best ghost walk guide is here! Went tonight with our son he loved it. Lots of adults there too, we enjoyed it, even on a cold windy night it was good, just got wrapped up. Lots of interesting things and was a good night
Built in 1788 to designs by architect Jonathan Pickernell of Whitby, this is a historic building listed grade II*. Unused inside, so there is no public access.
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📍 Market Square Clock Tower, Church St, Whitby YO22 4DD, UK
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Market Square Clock Tower, Church St, Whitby YO22 4DD, UK