Ruswarp is a pretty village that lies in the scenic Esk Valley, just one mile south of Whitby.
Located on the edge of the North York Moors National Park on a steep hill leading down to the River Esk is the beautiful village of Ruswarp. Originally named Risewarp meaning ‘silted land overgrown with brushwood' Ruswarp village lies within the Scarborough borough of North Yorkshire.
A brief history of Ruswarp
This small village features classic local shops, including a butcher, a grocery store, and a bakery. There is a pub, the Bridge Inn and a church, the Ruswarp Church of St Bartholomew. The heritage steam train services from Pickering to Whitby also pass through Ruswarp, but don't stop at the Ruswarp platform. Bus services connect the village to the surrounding area.
Arguably, the most historic landmark in Ruswarp is the brick-built viaduct. It once supported the main Scarborough to Whitby line. The viaduct is 120 feet high, and when it was built, it took more than five million bricks to complete. The viaduct was closed in 1965. The viaduct is now known as the Cinder Track, a walkway and cycle route along the former Whitby-to-Scarborough railway line.
The River Esk was also once used to power corn mills in the village; however, the last one closed in 1962. The weir, built to channel water into a mill race, has been adapted to power a hydroelectric project on its southern bank. The Ruswarp Hydro project began generating electricity in December 2012.
Things to do in Ruswarp
Ruswarp Pleasure Boats
Ruswarp Pleasure Boats was established in 1874; here, you can rent rowing boats or canoes to explore the sheltered waters. This company offers a unique opportunity to access the only migratory Salmon river in Yorkshire, which is also lots of fun and great for photos.
Try the Esk Valley Walk
The village of Ruswarp is situated on the Esk Valley Walk; this is a national hiking trail. There is a moderate walk between Ruswarp and Whitby (approximately 1½ miles) mostly along a stone pannierway, known as Monks Trod.
It's easy to follow and signposted from the main street in Ruswarp. Walking is a great option to explore the Esk Valley, which we believe is one of the most beautiful valleys in England.
Top Tip: You can visit the area and take in the surrounding scenery by taking the Whitby to Ruswarp circular walk, known as the ‘Ruswarp Round'.
Places to eat and drink in Ruswarp
The Bridge Inn
The Bridge Inn is an excellent pub with really homely, tasty food and a friendly atmosphere. We have eaten here several times and have never been disappointed. From here, you have the bonus of watching the steam trains pass by as you relax. It's family-friendly and dog-friendly, too.
The Waterside
The Waterside is set in a beautiful and peaceful location on the River Esk. During the day, they offer a family-friendly dining experience with a modern European-influenced menu, options for children, and an exclusive adult-only sundeck.
At night, enjoy skillfully crafted cocktails and indulge in an extravagant dining experience where your table is reserved for the entire evening.
Places to stay in Ruswarp
Waterloo Cottage Annexe
Situated in Ruswarp in North Yorkshire, Waterloo Cottage Annexe features a garden. The accommodation is 22.4 miles from Filey, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site. The holiday home has 1 bedroom, a TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a stovetop, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a bath or shower.
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Ruswarp Hall
Constructed in 1603, Ruswarp Hall in Whitby is an adult-only guesthouse set in the village of Ruswarp, alongside the River Esk. Whitby can be reached via a leisurely 30-minute walk along the riverside from the property. This lovely property features a spacious garden.
