Ruswarp

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, grocery store and 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 walk/cycleway 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 were established in 1874, here you can rent rowing boats or canoes to explore the sheltered waters. This company offer a unique opportunity to access the only migratory Salmon river in Yorkshire, also lots of fun and great for photos.

Miniature Steam Railway 

The miniature steam railway in Ruswarp is very popular. They are open every weekend from May to October, and all school holidays, from 11 am to 5 pm. The price is just £2.00 each. Join in and ride these special little trains on a 7 1/4″ gauge track, around beautiful 4-acre grounds in Ruswarp. Located next to Ruswarp Riverside Cafe.

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 a great 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 added bonus of watching the steam trains pass by as you relax. It’s family-friendly and dog friendly too.

Ruswarp Riverside Cafe

Ruswarp Riverside Cafe is set in a beautiful and peaceful location on the River Esk, serving excellent coffee and Yorkshire tea, as well as a selection of cakes, sandwiches, salads, soup and quiche. The afternoon tea selection is fantastic. They are also licensed and sell a small selection of beer, lager, cider and quality wine. Opening hours here are seasonal and there is ample free parking.

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.

Fuchsia Cottage

Fuchsia Cottage is situated in Ruswarp. The accommodation is 30.4 miles from Bridlington. This holiday home features 1 bedroom, a TV, and a kitchen. Scarborough is 14.9 miles from the holiday home, while Whitby is 1.7 miles from the property. Families are welcome and pets are allowed on request.

Header image credit: Acasson, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons