Walks That End With A Pub In And Around Whitby

If you're a fan of scenic walks and enjoy ending your adventure with a refreshing stop at a cosy pub, you're in the right place.

We are huge fans of beautiful walks, especially when a great pub is at the end! Here are walks that end with a pub in and around Whitby to pick from.

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Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay

Approx 7 miles | 3-4 hours | Moderate route

You can start this route across from Whitby Abbey, where you'll see the Cleveland Way National Trail sign. Follow the trail south toward Robin Hood's Bay. This walk is part of the longer Cleveland Way, which runs from Scarborough and circles the entire North York Moors National Park.

You'll reach Saltwick Bay in no time, just opposite Whitby Holiday Park. There's a steep, slippery path down to the bay, so be cautious. Saltwick Bay is a great place for fossil hunting, as you can discover numerous ammonites, reptiles, shells, and even some jet.

This is not a technical walk; you follow the coastal path until you reach Robin Hood's Bay. This moderate walk has uneven terrain at points, occasional steep inclines and declines, and can be very slippy in parts.

Walking boots or the correct footwear are essential. Be prepared, as the undulating terrain will give your legs a good test before you arrive in the pretty fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay.

While walking along this route, we noticed many people with dogs. We recommend always keeping your dogs on a lead and only bringing dogs you can fully control. The path runs alongside a steep drop, and the fencing has occasional breaks.

Once known for its bustling smuggling trade, Robin Hood's Bay is now filled with charming pubs, cafes, gift shops, and a delicious fish and chip shop!

The Bay Hotel

The Bay Hotel has become renowned as a perfect destination for enthusiastic walkers looking to conclude their sand and sea air filled hikes. The sea view is beautiful at any time of year.

The pub is child—and dog-friendly, creating a welcoming family atmosphere. The bar serves various cask ales, wines, and popular crowd favourites to cater to all tastes.

The Bay Hotel has been operating for centuries, dating back to 1828. The food menu offers a selection of delicious home-cooked options. On sunny days, guests can enjoy their drinks and meals in the outdoor seating areas or on the sea-facing balcony for fresh air.

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Whitby to Ruswarp

1.5 miles | Takes around 40 minutes | Easy route

Start your walk at the back car park of Whitby's Marina with the River Esk estuary on your left-hand side. You have the option to choose either the right-hand or left-hand footpath.

After the high-level road bridge, continue along the path between the river and the railway line, taking you under the brick-built viaduct arches.

You'll enjoy views overlooking the River Esk when you continue along the footpath to Ruswarp Village. Upon reaching the end of the footpath at Ruswarp railway station, pass through the pedestrian gate and turn right into Ruswarp Village. Then, proceed over the level crossing. Remember to only cross when it's safe, and avoid attempting to cross if warning lights are flashing and the barriers are down.

This village boasts a variety of local shops, including a butcher, grocery store, and bakery. The Bridge Inn is a great spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere if you fancy a drink or food.

The Bridge Inn

This 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 bonus of watching the steam trains pass by as you relax. It’s family-friendly and dog-friendly, too. P.S. The roast dinners are fantastic. Learn more about this walk here.

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Whitby to Sandsend via the beach

Both routes take roughly one hour and are easy routes

Start at the Whitby West Cliff Beach Huts. From there, you'll spot Sandsend in the distance, with the sea to your right. Walk along the beach for approximately two miles, passing Upgang Beach.

The beach extends far at low tide, offering stunning coastal views. Upon reaching Sandsend, descend the steps to the beach and visit Sandside Cafe, a lovely spot to relax, enjoy a drink, or grab a bite to eat while soaking in the beautiful views.

Walking on soft sand is not always easy, so walking via the road and clifftop might be more suitable, depending on your abilities.

Before walking to Sandsend via the beach, please check the tide times. You can check them here.

Whitby to Sandsend via the road or clifftop

You have several options for starting your walk in Whitby; one excellent starting point is the Captain Cook Monument, as the walk is straightforward from there.

Another option is to begin at Whitby Abbey, perfect for day visitors looking to explore the area. You can follow the Cleveland Way west from the Abbey, passing St Mary’s Churchyard and descending the 199 steps.

You'll cross the Swing Bridge over the River Esk and pass the famous Magpie Cafe along the way. Continuing past the Captain Cook Monument towards Whitby Pavillion, you can follow the promenade to Sandsend or take the cycle path/clifftop route.

This option is relatively easy even for those with children or pushchairs, and it offers a different view of Sandsend and Whitby. Additionally, walking alongside the golf course provides a great perspective. We prefer taking the beach route there and the road route back.

The White House

As we head back to town, we often visit the White House across from the Golf Course for a drink or something to eat. The beer garden is beautiful and boasts incredible views. There is also lots of room for children to let off some steam. 

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Whitby circular walk around the town

2 miles | Takes 2 hours | Easy route

This is a lovely two-mile circular route. At each of the ten leisurely stages, you can enjoy a mobile phone experience with characters from the past sharing their tales of Whitby's history with you.

This easy route is almost entirely paved and accessible for wheelchair users and parents with buggies. The main challenge is the steep slope up Khyber Pass. The walk begins near Whitby Train Station and offers a great way to leisurely take in the sights and history of Whitby. Follow the route here.

The Ship

Situated on the west side of the river, towards the sea from the harbour bridge.  Everyone adores The Ship, one of Whitby's most welcoming and cheerful pubs. It's a popular spot among locals who enjoy making new acquaintances, and everyone, including energetic children, is embraced. Be prepared for lively conversations and plenty of laughter here.

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A walk around Whitby that ends with a pub is the perfect combo for us! Let us know if you try one of these walks on your next trip to Whitby in the comments. We'd love to hear if you have a favourite walk or pub.