“Away from the packed commuter routes and main intercities, the backwaters of our national rail network harbour some of the most beautiful rides in the world.
“Leaving Teesside, the train chugs out across the North York Moors … along the leafy valley through Danby, Egton and Lealholm – surely the prettiest village in Yorkshire – to Whitby's bracing sea air, fine Georgiana and looming Gothic church. This is England's green and pleasant land, writ large over 36miles ... it will make you sigh”
The Sunday Times, 1st March 2009
The Esk Valley Railway connects the rural communities in the North Yorkshire Moors with the city of Middlesbrough and the historic seaside town of Whitby. The railway also offers an enjoyable, environmentally-friendly and stress-free way to view and explore this magnificent landscape and lovely villages.
On this website you will find inspiration for days out and practical information to help you plan your journey. Here you can:
- print-off timetables for individual stations, choose a station from the list of links at the foot of any page.
- read about things to see, what to do and where to eat at places along the line
- download walking and cylcling routes
- find out about fares and discounts
- view a calendar of events
- discover the environmental benefits of travelling by train
This website is commissioned and maintained by the Esk Valley Railway Development Company, a not-for-profit Community Rail Partnership. The train service is operated by Northern Rail and the line is owned by Network Rail.
News
Work has begun on a £1-million programme of refurbishment at Whitby Railway Station, in which the platform canopy glazing and all electrics and guttering will be renewed. It is being funded by Network Rail and is due for completion in by June 2009.
Music and Ale Trains
On Friday evenings during the summer, enjoy spectacular scenery, real ale and live music on the Esk Valley Railway Music and Ale trains. This is a good opportunity to visit one on the many great pubs along the line for an evening meal and a few relaxing drinks, before returning on the late train.
Dates and train times
Download an A4 poster (200 KB pdf file)
Walks
The Esk Valley Walk is 35-mile waymarked trail which takes you from the source of the River Esk to the sea at Whitby harbour, passing through many of the villages along the Esk Valley Railway line. For more information and walksheets (which can be for downloaded), visit the walking page.
