Looking for walking and cycling routes that don't require a car to get you started? Using stations on the Esk Valley Railway as easy-access gateways, each route begins and ends at a train station, making it simple to leave the car behind and head straight into the North York Moors. We’ve partnered with Northern Rail and Komoot to create these two collections of walking and cycling routes.
The Esk Valley Railway is one of northern England’s most scenic rural railways serving 17 stations along the route, running from Middlesbrough through the heart of the North York Moors National Park to the historic seaside town of Whitby. Following the River Esk for much of its journey, the railway line links remote villages with the coastal landscape.
The Esk Valley Railway from Middlesbrough to Whitby is supported by the not-for-profit Esk Valley Railway Development Company (EVRDC), a community rail partnership which helps to promote the line both to residents and visitors.
Walking Routes
The walking collection showcases six superb routes that make the most of stations along the Esk Valley Railway. Two routes follow sections of the long-distance Esk Valley Walk, including the adventurous Danby Dale, Blakey and Westerdale route to the remote source of the River Esk.
Click on the route map below and zoom or click on the link to view the routes on Komoot.
Cycling routes
The cycling collection features four routes, with options for linear or circular, making it easy to explore the North York Moors without needing a car. Starting from locations such as Great Ayton, Danby and Whitby, the routes combine quiet country lanes, remote moorland roads and occasional gravel tracks, linking some of the area’s finest scenery with rail access.
Bikes are welcome free of charge on all trains on the Esk Valley line, with spaces allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, booking via Northern Railway.
Looking at ways to reduce the impact of your visit to the North York Moors , see 'Give back, feel good'...
Stay longer and make use of our community of cycling and walking friendly businesses.
Please make sure you have suitable walking and cycling gear for each route, as they head into remote areas where the weather can change quickly. If you're planning a visit to the North York Moors, make sure you Share with Care.
Discover our routes on Komoot.
