The Bridge Inn

Ruswarp to Whitby along the Esk

An easy 4.6-mile riverside circular of under two hours with barely 30 metres of climbing, out on the Esk bank from Ruswarp under the Larpool viaduct to the marina and the swing bridge, and back down the far side. Start by Ruswarp station or the Bridge Inn; the Esk Valley line stops here, so it also works as a train-and-walk from Whitby or Grosmont. Level, almost gateless and mostly traffic-free, it is the kindest walk on this coast for an old dog, with easy river access for a drink, though the Esk runs fast and deep after rain and the last half-mile through Church Street is crowded in season.