Whitby Goth Weekend And Its Rise In Popularity Over Recent Years

Whitby is without a doubt called the 'Goth Capital of Great Britain'; not surprising when one considers that on a couple of weekends in the year (close to April and October) great numbers of people converge in the town in celebration of all things 'Gothic'.



The original idea belonged to Jo Hampshire, who, in 1994 along with a number of mates, came to Whitby for the 1st Goth Festival. Whitby was probably chosen because of its connections with Dracula, (Bram Stoker holidayed in Whitby and drew his inspiration for the book from the Abbey). As the yearly event became ever more popular it was decided to hold the festival twice yearly.



Through the weekends that the events are being held, the entire town seems to embrace the Gothic mood. A number of retail outlets and public houses decorate their premises with spiders, skulls, cobwebs and various other paraphernalia, in line with the general mood of the Gothic guests. Several vacationers have most outfits encompassing a wide variety of styles. Stunning crinoline gowns in shades from black through red to white are worn, many with veils, some with parasols and some with rich velvety cloaks. The men may be seen in top hats and tails, stunning morning suits with silver walking canes and spats.

Recently there's been a divergence into outfits related to the punk and new world movement, each equally interesting to see with spikey hair, kilts, fishnet stockings.



Music has been incorporated into the bigger picture, with groups and artists showcasing their talents at the Whitby Pavilion, Metropole Hotel and other venues. Some 'big name' acts are beginning to attend the functions now such is the popularity of these week-ends both in this country but also worldwide.

The Pavilion has been home to some 'black market' markets held in the lower basement. Stalls featuring a wide range of Gothic garments, footwear, music and memorabilia are on sale, a remarkable view into the Gothic psyche for those of the more 'normal' persuasion.

It is the generally held view amongst the local population of the town that the Gothic visitors are extremely welcome and indeed a number of the townsfolk themselves embrace the dress-style and frequent the various functions held.

More and more families are going to the town at these weekends with youngsters and even babies in costume along with people of all ages even those in their 80's and possible older!



St. Mary's Parish Church on the East Cliff alongside the Abbey has been the location for the renewal of many wedding vows amongst the Gothic community and the Registry Office has seen an increase in the quantity of civil marriages celebrated here, all with the Gothic theme.



The majority of the participants in the festival weekends are more than happy to pose for photos as they stroll throughout the town and seafront. On the cliff top near to St.Mary's Graveyard and the Abbey, photographers can be found in abundance taking atmospheric shots of the Goths in period attire amongst the gravestones or with the backdrop of the 199 steps, Caedmon's Cross and the harbour view.



The history of Whitby has a very diverse and chequered past befitting its Gothic connections, from its gargoyles and chimeras which adorn a number of churches to its Pagan Green man which is on a stone frieze carved on St. Hildas' C of E Church on Church Square. A walk around the town's most well-known buildings will invariably show a large amount of gargoyles and mysterious symbols, a fascinating insight into the past history and the emerging new history of the town of Whitby.