Walks in the Esk Valley
The railway makes this ideal walking country: walk between stations and ride back. Distances are approximate. Take a map, decent footwear and check the weather on the tops.
Easy
Glaisdale to Egton Bridge by Beggar's Bridge and Arncliffe Wood
4 km (2.5 miles) · 1 to 1.5 hours · Linear
A short riverside walk over the famous packhorse bridge and along medieval stone trods through ancient oak woodland.
Easy
The Rail Trail: Goathland to Grosmont
5.6 km (3.5 miles) · 1.5 to 2 hours · Linear
An easy 3.5-mile walk along the trackbed of Stephenson's original 1835 railway, through Beck Hole, with a steam train back.
Strenuous
The Esk Valley Walk
60 km (37.3 miles) · 3 to 5 days, or in sections · Linear
The valley's long-distance route: 37 miles from the source of the Esk to the sea at Whitby, waymarked with a leaping salmon.
Easy
Whitby to Ruswarp riverside
3 km (1.9 miles) · 45 minutes to 1 hour · Linear
A level stroll up the Esk from the harbour to the boats and pub at Ruswarp, with a train back.
Moderate
Mallyan Spout and Beck Hole from Goathland
4.8 km (3.0 miles) · 2 to 2.5 hours · Circular
Waterfalls, a wooded gorge and a tiny pub on a circular walk from Goathland.
Easy
Falling Foss and May Beck
5 km (3.1 miles) · 1.5 to 2 hours · Circular
An easy woodland walk beside Little Beck to a waterfall and a tea garden in the trees.
Moderate
Danby Beacon and Danby Castle from The Moors Centre
10 km (6.2 miles) · 3 to 3.5 hours · Circular
Moorland views from the Beacon, then down the dale past a medieval castle and packhorse bridge.