Lying in the beautiful Esk Valley, the village of Ruswarp is just two miles from the centre of Whitby and only a mile and a half on foot using the “Cinder Track” disused railway line. This trail links Whitby to Scarborough and is perfect for a cycle ride. You can hop on the train to Whitby on the Esk Valley line or going in the opposite direction, this railway line will take you to lots of pretty villages in the North York Moors National Park.
Within the village you can hire rowing boats and canoes for a relaxing trip on the river and take a ride on a miniature railway. The local pub, The Bridge Inn, serves food and there is a village shop for all the essentials. In the nearby village of Sleights there is a general store, bakery, butcher and fish and chip restaurant with take away.
On the East Cliff in Whitby, overlooking the North Sea, the ruined Gothic Whitby Abbey was Bram Stoker’s inspiration for “Dracula”. Nearby is the Church of St. Mary, reached by 199 steps. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum, in the house where Cook once lived, displays paintings and maps. West of town is West Cliff Beach, lined with beach huts and the giant whale bone arch is not to be missed.
Of course Whitby is also famous for excellent fish and chips, fresh from the sea, what could be better!
Exploring North York Moors National Park
- Whitby Harbour 1
- Robin Hood’s Bay 10 miles
- Scarborough 25 miles
- Runswick Bay 11 miles
- Sandsend 9 miles
- North York Moors Visitor Centre – Danby 11 miles
Further afield
- City of York 45 miles
- Castle Howard 35 miles
- Howardian Hills AONB 35
- Yorkshire Dales National Park miles 60 miles
Airports/Railway
- York mainline station, 45 miles, London 2 hours
- Whitby station 1 mile
- Durham Tees Valley Airport 40 miles
- Leeds Bradford Airport 80 miles
