What is a Civic Society?
A Civic Society works to guard and enhance the character of a town.
Are you part of Scarborough Borough Council?
We are completely independent of the Scarborough Borough Council and our interest lies entirely with the town of Whitby.
Which political party does the society belong to?
The Society belongs to no political party but welcomes people of all political parties, all religious denominations, all walks of life and all positions of society who cherish Whitby and want to keep its unique character.
What are the aims of the society?
The Society tries to instill civic pride in the town. It looks at new planning to see that no damage is done to the character of the town. It educates people in the history of the town. It rewards people who have helped to enhance the character of the town.
What sort of rewards does the Society give?
The Society gives Certificates of Excellence to those who have renovated a building to enhance its historic value or made new buildings which keep the character of Whitby. The Society also gives a certificate of excellence to those who do something which enhances the character of Whitby (at the moment we are considering giving one to the Friends of Pannett Park who worked tirelessly to bring Pannett Park up to a very high standard. )
What are Blue Plaques?
These plaques are placed on buildings to commemorate either someone of note who has lived there or the historic quality of the building itself.
Apart from Blue Plaques, Certificates of Excellence, and the monthly event what does the Society do?
Every member of the Committee has a special responsibility for an aspect of the society and they report to the committee on their work. The Society is responsible for two important major events every year. In July we have Civic Day where the society puts on events which relate to the town and the work of the society. In September we have Heritage Open Days where people are invited to guided visits to places not usually open to the public and on guided walks of historic interest. Whitby Civic Society is proud that its Heritage Open Days Event is are one of the best in Britain.
What does it cost to join the society
The yearly subscription is £10.00, which gives entry at half price to the society's events. To find how to join go to