St. Mary's Churchyard

St. Mary's Churchyard in Whitby, also known as Whitby Abbey, is a historic church located in the seaside town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, England. The church dates back to the 12th century and is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque setting overlooking the North Sea.

The churchyard is famous for being the inspiration behind Bram Stoker's novel "Dracula," as Stoker visited Whitby in 1890 and was inspired by the eerie atmosphere of the churchyard and surrounding area. Visitors can explore the grounds of St. Mary's Churchyard and admire its ancient gravestones, gothic architecture, and panoramic views of the sea.

In addition to its literary connections, St. Mary's Churchyard is also a place of worship for local residents and visitors alike. The church holds regular services and events throughout the year, welcoming people from all walks of life to come together in prayer and reflection.

Overall, St. Mary's Churchyard in Whitby is a must-visit destination for history buffs, literature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of an ancient English churchyard by the sea.


Witch Movie Filming Locations

St. Mary's Churchyard in Whitby, England is a historic cemetery that dates back to the 12th century. The churchyard is located on the grounds of St. Mary's Church, which overlooks the picturesque town of Whitby and the North Sea.

In recent years, St. Mary's Churchyard has gained attention as a filming location for witch-themed movies. One such film that was shot at the churchyard is "The Witches," a 2020 adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic children's book.

The atmospheric setting of St. Mary's Churchyard with its ancient gravestones and gothic architecture provides the perfect backdrop for scenes depicting witches and supernatural elements. The eerie ambiance of the churchyard adds an extra layer of authenticity to these types of films.

While some may view using a sacred place like St. Mary's Churchyard for filming as controversial, it is important to note that proper permissions are obtained from the church authorities and steps are taken to ensure that filming does not disrupt regular services or disturb visitors paying their respects to loved ones buried in the cemetery.

Overall, St. Mary's Churchyard in Whitby serves as a unique and visually striking location for filmmakers looking to capture a sense of mystery and magic in their witch-themed productions.