Count Dracula is possibly the most famous of the un-dead creatures of the night. The very name instills fear and dread at the heart of many an English mans soul. Bram Stokers Vampire creation came to England from the deepest darkest depths of eastern Europe on the search for fresh blood in 1847-1912.
Legend dictates that he sailed across the sea on the ship 'The Demeter' which shipwrecked just of the coast. Dracula runs up the famous 199 steps to the graveyard in St Mary's church in the shape of a black dog. An examination of the ship's log shows that the crew members had been gradually disappearing since she left Varna in Russia.
Whitby is a beautiful fishing town that has become home to the legend of count Dracula. After Bram Stoker stayed here on holiday at The Duke of York, a riverside inn, he was inspired to write the novel. Whitby is home to the spectacular ruins of Whitby Abbey, perched on the edge of the cliffs it becomes bathed in orange light when the sun goes down. St Mary's church is not far away and the 199 steps at the exit to the graveyard leads down to the harbour. These steps are the very same that Dracula ran up when he came to town.
This Halloween will see 1000's of Gothic teenagers and adults alike, looking for a glimpse of there idol, descend upon the now quite seaside town. Dracula himself could well pay a visit un-be-known to the casual observer, as there are so many actors giving the part a go. So if you want to run the risk of being the next bride of dracula then may I suggest you head over to Whitby.
