Whitby is seeking lovers of all things spooky as they attempt to break a new world record for the largest-ever gathering of people dressed up as vampires.
In partnership with Guinness World Records, English Heritage is inviting vampire lovers to don their black cloaks and fangs for a gathering at Whitby Abbey, ie. "the birthplace of Dracula".
It's unclear at the time of writing whether the undead Count Dracula himself will be in attendance, although it certainly sounds up his street.
The evening's entertainment will include live music from local acts, and performed excerpts from Dracula by Time Will Tell Theatre, while attendees can enjoy plenty of local food and drink, which will naturally include fish and chips.
The event will kick off between 6.45 pm and 7.15 pm on the evening of Thursday, May 26, 2022, to mark the 125th anniversary of Bram Stoker's classic horror novel.
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Those who turn up to the 13th-century abbey in traditional vampire fancy dress will get free entry, however, you'll have to go all out to take part.
In order to be Count-ed, vampish participants must wear black trousers or dress, black shoes, waistcoat, shirt, black cape or collared overcoat (a different colour inside will be permitted), and fangs on their top row of teeth.
Although free entry is only for those in costume who intend to partake in the world record attempt, exceptions will be made for adults accompanying children in costume or other less able visitors in costume.
As per English Heritage, Stoker was creatively inspired by "Whitby’s windswept headland, the dramatic abbey ruins, a church surrounded by swooping bats" during his stay in July 1890.
The striking town later came to feature prominently in his 1897 novel Dracula, and it is here where the malevolent vampire first arrives in England, after the ship he is travelling aboard runs aground.
For more information, and to buy tickets before they get snapped up, check out the English Heritage website
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