Ruswarp Round: Whitby to Ruswarp Circular Walk

If you want an easy walk from Whitby with river views, countryside paths, and a nice village pub stop, try the Whitby to Ruswarp circular walk.

Also known as the Ruswarp Round, this short route offers plenty of variety and won’t take up your whole day.

This scenic walk follows the River Esk out of Whitby, goes under the impressive Larpool Viaduct, and loops back through quiet countryside. It’s a great choice if you want to stretch your legs and see a quieter side of Whitby.

Route overview

Route: Whitby Ruswarp Round
Distance: 2 miles
Time: Around 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Start point: Whitby Marina Back Car Park

The route is well-marked and fairly short, making it a good choice for visitors who want an easy walk with plenty to see along the way.

Starting the walk in Whitby

Start at Whitby Marina Back Car Park and follow the path next to the River Esk. This first part is peaceful and easy to follow, with the river on one side and the railway on the other. If you’re lucky, you might see a steam train go by, which adds a nice touch of nostalgia to the walk.

Passing Larpool Viaduct

A highlight of the walk is going under Larpool Viaduct. The big arches are impressive and make a great spot for photos, especially with the river and greenery around them.

It’s a place that shows how much history is hidden in Whitby’s landscape, even on a short walk like this.

Arriving in Ruswarp

Keep following the route, and you’ll soon reach Ruswarp, a charming village just outside Whitby. It’s a nice spot to take a break, whether you want a short stroll or a drink at The Bridge Inn. The beer garden here is beautiful, with the river flowing below and the trainline passing close by.

Returning via Monks’ Trod

From Ruswarp, take the historic Monks’ Trod path. It’s clearly signposted after Jackson’s Butchers.

This part of the walk has different scenery, taking you through countryside paths where you might see herons, deer, and other birds. It’s peaceful and a nice change from the riverside section.

You’ll also cross the old Cinder Track, where you can enjoy wide views back towards Whitby before finishing the loop.

Why this walk is worth doing

The Ruswarp Round is perfect if you want a walk that combines nature, history, and village charm in one easy route. There are lots of photo spots, from riverside views and railway scenes to Larpool Viaduct and the countryside above Whitby.

It’s short enough to fit into a morning or afternoon, but varied enough to feel like a real adventure.

Route map

Final thoughts

If you’re visiting Whitby and want a scenic walk that doesn’t take all day, the Whitby to Ruswarp circular walk is a great choice. With river views, wildlife, history, and a cosy village pub, the Ruswarp Round is a lovely way to see a different side of the area.