The Swing Bridge across the inner harbour is the working centre of Whitby. The current bridge dates from 1908, replacing an earlier wooden swing bridge. It pivots on a central pier to let boats through to and from the upper harbour, where most of the fishing fleet and the local pleasure boats are moored.
The bridge swings several times a day, generally signalled by a single bell — when it opens, both pedestrians and the town traffic come to a stop. It is also the easiest crossing point between the old east side (abbey, jet shops, narrow alleys) and the busier west side (shops, beach, station). A small touchscreen sign tells you the next scheduled opening.