Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Brimming with coastal charm, Whitby welcomes you with its handsome harbour and medieval streets. Our Guided Walking holidays contrast the windswept headlands and smugglers’ haunts of the Yorkshire coast, with the magical North York Moors where the sweetly scented heather creates a carpet of colour.
Highlights:
Larpool Hall, Larpool Drive, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO22 4ND (Google Map)
4:00pm – You’re welcome to check into the country house hotel from 4pm onwards.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way onward.
Enjoy a full day’s walking with fellow guests and leave all the planning and navigation to us; it’s what we do best. Nobody knows the UK’s best places to walk like us. Our knowledgeable leaders make sure you’re never short of the inside story on local features, viewpoints and places of interest.
On our Guided Walking holidays, we believe that choice is key. Our walks descriptions will help you choose according to your interests and fitness. The walks are grouped together with care by local experts to give the best experience.
Walking Grades Explained:
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong type of clothing!” goes the adage. Come prepared for all eventualities and you’ll walk in comfort as well as safety. Britain’s famous for its changeable weather, so here’s our advice on what to wear and bring.
Essentials
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You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.
Accommodation: Larpool Hall (D, T)
Option 1 – Hawsker to Whitby
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (360m)
In Summary: After time exploring Robin Hood’s Bay, our coach takes us to the village of Hawsker. A track from here joins the coastal path which we follow to Whitby. We’ll pass the iconic ruins of the Abbey, before descending the steps to the harbour.
Highlight: The ruins of Whitby Abbey stand prominently on the headland above the harbour. Discover how this dramatic setting inspired Bram Stoker’s gothic novel Dracula.
Option 2 – Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby
Distance: 8½ miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,800 feet (560m)
In Summary: Follow the glorious coast path from Robin Hood’s Bay back to Whitby. We’ll round the first headland then head towards the landmark of Whitby Abbey.
Highlight: The beach below Whitby’s East Cliff is a good spot to look for fossils, and jet. In the nearby shops you can see how craftsmen have carved this into jewellery and ornaments.
Option 3 – Ravenscar to Whitby
Distance: 11½ miles (18.5km)
Ascent: 2,000 feet (620m)
In Summary: A glorious coastal walk starting high on the headland at Ravenscar. We’ll initially head to Boggle Hole and the quaint fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay, before rounding the headland and continuing along the coast to Whitby.
Highlight: We’ll descend the famous 199 steps from Whitby Abbey and enjoy the classic view over the bustling harbour.
Option 1 – Castleton Rigg to Danby
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 700 feet (220m)
In Summary: Starting high on Castleton Rigg. We then descend along the Rigg, following field and moorland paths to visit Danby Castle, home of Katherine Parr, before crossing the Esk Valley railway to arrive at the Moors Centre.
Highlight: The Moors Centre has excellent interpretive displays about the national park, and a rolling programme of exhibitions by local artists.
Option 2 – Danby Rigg
Distance: 9½ miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)
In Summary: From Castleton we make our way across fields and Danby Rigg to reach Little Fryup Dale. We continue via Danby Crag before crossing the River Esk to arrive at the pretty village of Houlsyke. After a short, sharp ascent will bring us to a quiet road and track from where we will enjoy splendid views of the Esk Valley before descending to The Moors Centre.
Highlight: Look out for the standing stones, cairns and long barrows on Danby Rigg – evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age.
Option 3 – Atop the Moors
Distance: 10 miles (16.5km)
Ascent: 1,800 feet (540m)
In Summary Explore the moors above the Esk Valley. From Castleton we will take in Westerdale Moor, Castleton Rigg punctuated by tranquil green valleys, we then follow Danby Dale back to the Moors Centre.
Highlight: Enjoy sweeping views from the top of the moors over the national park, and down the Esk Valley towards Whitby.
A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit.
Accommodation: Larpool Hall (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Sneaton and Stainsacre
Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: We make our way to Ruswarp then ascend, with great views as far as Whitby Abbey, to the village of Sneaton. Our return takes us via the village of Stainsacre.
Highlight: Check out the award winning ice cream maker in the village of Sneaton.
Option 2 – Iburndale & Ugglebarnby
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)
In summary: We follow the Esk valley to Sleights before ascending through Iburndale to the delightfully named Ugglebarnby then on to Sneaton and Stainsacre.
Highlight: Walk through pretty villages and enjoy lovely riverside vistas.
Option 3 – Ugglebarnby, Rigg Mill & Stainsacre
Distance: 11½ miles (18km)
Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)
In summary: On this lovely route, we walk along the Esk valley to Sleights then beside lovely Iburndale Beck before ascending to Ugglebarnby. Our return journey takes us via the site of a disused water mill once belonging to Whitby Abbey.
Highlight: A lovely leg stretcher through beautiful countryside taking in quaint villages along the way.
Option 1 – Goathland & Grosmont Circuit
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 950 feet (280m)
In Summary: Walk from Goathland past the Mallyan Spout waterfall, heading down the valley to the neighbouring village of Grosmont. Our return route follows the old railway trail between the two villages.
Highlight: Today’s walks centre on the village of Goathland – made famous as the setting for the TV series Heartbeat. You may also recognise Goathland station from its role in the Harry Potter films.
Option 2 – Goathland Circuit
Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km)
Ascent: 950 feet (280m)
In Summary: From Goathland, a gentle descent along the old railway track takes us to Beck Hole. Woodland and field paths will take us to Wheeldale Beck from where we make our way across a lovely moorland path via a secluded tarn to Goathland church. From there, feld paths & more of the old railway track bring us back to Goathland.
Highlight: A stretch of walking along a moorland edge give views of the magnificent scenery in the heart of the National Park.
Option 3 – Moorland above Goathland
Distance: 10½ miles (17km)
Ascent: 1,160 feet (350m)
In Summary: We make our way to the quiet hamlet of Beck Hole before climbing though woodland. A first stretch of moorland walking leads us to Wheeldale Road, an old Roman Road. A delightful walk along the Wheeldale Beck takes us to HUnt House from where we climb to Simon Howe on part of the Lyke Wake Walk. We then follow a high morrland path across Howl Moor back down to Goathland.
Highlight: Walk in the footsteps of Romans & Bronze Age residents of the moors on superb views in all directions.
Option 1 – Runswick Bay to Sandsend
Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)
Total ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In Summary: Enjoy a glorious section of the Yorkshire coast between Runswick Bay and Sandsend. We start along the beach, then ascend onto the cliff-top path which takes us around the headland at Kettleness and on to Sandsend.
Highlight: There’s time to explore Staithes before rejoining the coach to start our walk at Runswick Bay. Staithes is a timeless fishing village with cobbled streets and historic buildings.
Option 2 – Staithes to Sandsend
Distance: 9½ miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)
In Summary: Starting from Staithes we follow the impressive cliff top section of the coast to Runswick Bay. Our walk continues along the Cleveland Way to Kettleness and Sandsend.
Highlight Look out for the once-thriving harbour at Port Mulgrave, built in the 1850s to transport iron ore. You can see the remains of the 1 mile tunnel that connected the mine to the harbour.
Option 3 – Boulby to Sandsend
Distance: 12 miles (19.5km)
Ascent: 1,900 feet (580m)
In Summary: From Boulby we follow the coastal path all the way to Sandsend, taking in the quaint fishing village of Staithes, the sweeping arc of Runswick Bay, and the remote headland of Kettleness.
Highlight: As you approach Sandsend there’s a glorious view along the 2½ mile long beach towards Whitby, with the ruins of Whitby Abbey prominent in the distance.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.
Accommodation: Larpool Hall (D, T)
Option 1 – Newholm and Raithwaite Hall
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 600 feet (180m)
In Summary: We walk through the outskirts of Whitby to the attractive village of Newholm before walking through the grounds of the secluded Raithwaite Hall. We then make our way to the sea front & return via Pannett Park.
Highlight: Raithwaite Hall & its grounds provide spectacular views along the coast.
Option 2 – To Sandsend And Back
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 950 feet (280m)
In Summary: We make our way through quiet countryside to the hamlet of Dunsley then head to the coast at Sandsend with its old alum workers’ cottages. We then return along the beach & cliff tops to Whitby.
Highlight: Step back in time and learn about the coast’s past on a Jurassic Trail.
*due to a stretch of beach walking, this walk may be reversed to avoid doing so at/near high tide
Option 3 – Newholm, Dunsley & Sandsend
Distance: 12½ miles (19.5km)
Ascent: 1,150 feet (360m)
In Summary: We walk to Sandsend via the quiet hamlets of Newholm & Dunsley. A longer stretch of beach walking brings us back to Whitby West Cliff with stunning views both ways along the coast.
Highlight: The walk along the beach provides a chance to see Whitby Abbey brooding on its clifftop perch high above the harbour.
*due to a stretch of beach walking, this walk may be reversed to avoid doing so at/near high tide
Option 1 – Captain Cook’s Monument
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Total ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In Summary: Follow the Cleveland Way to the magnificent viewpoint at Captain James Cook’s monument; we then descend to the foot of Roseberry Topping and on to the village of Great Ayton.
Highlight: Walk in the footsteps of Captain James Cook who grew up in the village of Great Ayton. There may be time to visit the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum at the end of the walk.
Option 2 – Roseberry Topping & Great Ayton
Distance: 8½ miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)
In Summary: Walk along the escarpment of the North York Moors. Our route ascends from near Guisborough to the summit of Roseberry Topping, then continues to the equally impressive viewpoint at Captain Cook’s Monument and Great Ayton.
Highlight: The distinctively shaped summit of Roseberry Topping – the Yorkshire Matterhorn – dominates the local skyline.
Option 3 – Cleveland Way Circuit
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 1,700 feet (520m)
In Summary: From Great Ayton ascend past Cliff Rigg quarry through mixed woodland to reach the summit of Roseberry Topping, then continue along the Cleveland Way to visit Captain Cook’s Monument before returning to Great Ayton.
Highlight: Soak up the sweeping panorama over Teesside and the surrounding countryside; a great contrast of natural and man-made landscapes.
Option 1 – Beast Cliff to Robin Hood’s Bay
Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)
Ascent: 1,150 feet (340m)
In Summary: Follow the spectacular coastal section of the Cleveland Way to Ravenscar. Following the sweep of the coastline, either along the seashore or along the cliff-top, we’ll continue to the old fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay.
Highlight: Our walk ends at the quaint fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay where you can explore the narrrow cobbled streets, or relax in one of the pubs or teashops.
Option 2 – Hayburn Wyke to Robin Hood’s Bay
Distance: 9 miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,000 feet (320m)
In Summary: Follow the coastal path from Hayburn Wyke through a nature reserve to Beast Cliff and Ravenscar, then on to Robin Hood’s Bay via seashore or cliff-top paths.
Highlight: The fascinating historic remains of the old Alum works below Ravenscar.
Option 3 – Cloughton to Robin Hood’s Bay
Distance: 10 miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,800 feet (500m)
In Summary: A fantastic longer coastal walk from Cloughton to Robin Hood’s Bay. Enjoy far-ranging sea views throughout the day as we make our way along this superb stretch of coastline.
Highlight: Discover the history of Ravenscar. Victorian developers bought this cliff-top site and laid out streets, aiming to build a grand seaside resort – alas only a few plots were bought and the company went bankrupt, thus preserving the tranquility of the headland.
A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit.
Accommodation: Larpool Hall (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Falling Foss to Whitby
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: From Falling Foss waterfall in its delightful woodland setting we walk along Little Beck to Ruswarp and join the River Esk which we follow back to Larpool Hall.
Highlight: Our walk ends by crossing the Larpool viaduct, a 13-arch brick structure built in 1884 to carry the now-closed Whitby to Scarborough railway over the River Esk.
Option 2 – May Beck to Whitby
Distance: 9 miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In summary: After a short section on moorland we descend to follow May Beck & Little Beck past beautiful waterfalls and through woodland to the River Esk, then make our way to Larpool Hall.
Highlight: Look out for steam trains on the North York Moors Railway beside the River Esk.
Option 3 – Sneaton Corner to Whitby
Distance: 11 miles (17.5km)
Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)
In summary: We walk across heather moorland before descending through woodland & farmland to follow May Beck & Little Beck to the River Esk on our way back to Larpool Hall
Highlight: We pass Bronze Age relics on the moorland before looking and listening for wildlife in the coniferous and deciduous woodlands.
Option 1 – Boulby to Runswick Bay
Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)
Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)
In Summary: Follow the Cleveland Way along the coast from Boulby cliff to Staithes and chat with members of the local RNLI down at the local lifeboat station. It’s then along the cliffs to Port Musgrave and the sweeping arc of Runswick Bay.
Highlight: Time to discover the fascinating fishing village of Staithes, and its Captain Cook connections.
Option 2 – Skinningrove to Runswick Bay
Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km)
Ascent: 1,700 feet (520m)
In Summary: A fabulous coastal walk starts with a steady ascent from the mining village of Skinningrove to the top of Boulby Cliff. After time to visit Staithes there’s a great final cliff-top section to Runswick Bay.
Highlight: Boulby Cliff rises to 666 feet, making it the highest point on Britain’s east coast. Enjoy the glorious view of our walk stretched out ahead.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
| Version 1 Departure Dates |
Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2023: March 10 | $1,890 | $2,170 |
| 2023: May 12 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: June 16, 30 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: July 28 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: September 22 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: October 13 | $2,100 | $2,380 |
| 2023: November 10 | $1,890 | $2,170 |
| Version 2 Departure Dates |
Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2023: April 7 | $2,100 | $2,380 |
| 2023: April 28 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: June 23 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: July 21 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
| 2023: August 18 | $2,330 | $2,610 |
Pricing
Pricing is per person (pp) based on single/twin/double occupancy.
Supplement applied for single in a double room.
Rates are in $ CAD. Rates include room upgrade (better) and membership fees.
Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Ask us for the best available pricing for your dates & choice of airline. We can assist in your travel to/from the Country House.
This tour is also available in 3 or 4 nights duration.
This holiday includes active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet.
While every effort will be made to adhere to the described itinerary, we may occasionally vary the sequence shown here or substitute an alternative route to suit local conditions or for other operational reasons, potentially at short notice. Sometimes things happen beyond our control – the weather, traffic jams or changes at the places we visit. If we need to adjust your holiday programme, for whatever reason, your leader will help smooth the way.
Travel Details:
Address is: Larpool Hall, Larpool Drive, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO22 4ND
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Larpool Hall is at Whitby, However, you may find that travelling to Scarborough station is more convenient.
By Taxi:
The 2 mile journey from Whitby station takes approximately 10 minutes, with a cost of around £6 per 4 seat taxi. The 21 mile journey from Scarborough rail station takes approximately 40 minutes, with a cost of around £30 per 4 seat taxi. Please note these are 2019 prices relevant to a 4-seat taxi and should only be taken as a guide. 8-seat taxis are also available at a higher rate. Abbey Taxis, our current recommended taxi company, can confirm prices on booking. Please pre-book your taxi at least 7 days in advance by contacting:
Abbey Taxis*
Tel: +44 (0) 1947 601212
Email: whitbytaxis2012@gmail.com
The return taxi journey can be arranged on your behalf by the Larpool Hall Manager.
*Abbey Taxis is not owned or managed by us.
By Bus:
The 93 bus runs regularly between Scarborough station and Whitby. As you approach Whitby, alight by the Larpool Industrial Estate. From here it is an 800 metre walk to Larpool Hall.
By Car:
Most guests approach Whitby via the A171 from Teesside or the A169 from Pickering and Malton; these roads converge at a roundabout about 2 miles outside Whitby. After this roundabout and as you approach Whitby, cross another roundabout then turn right at the traffic lights signposted to Scarborough. Cross the large bridge over the River Esk, then immediately turn right into Larpool Lane. Towards the top of the hill take the arrowing road of Larpool Drive. Larpool Hall is directly ahead at the end of this road. A free car park is available in the grounds.
Escape to Whitby, whose handsome harbour and medieval streets are famously the setting for Bram Stoker’s Dracula and home to the world’s best fish and chips, for a stay in Larpool Hall. This imposing Grade II listed Georgian mansion has been part of the town for hundreds of years and has evolved to offer an updated take on traditional hospitality. The Hall retains its original grandeur and styling, while offering guests the perfect mix of contemporary comforts to deliver a large amount of atmosphere and character. Sweep up the magnificent staircase, marvel at the impressive fireplaces, watch through the large picture windows and feel yourself transported. With 29 rooms, 14 acres of attractive grounds and views over the Esk Valley, you couldn’t be better placed. Step out to explore the coast, Captain Cook country or walk on the Cleveland Way. Discover Robin Hood’s Bay and hunt for fossils or head deep into the North York Moors for a contrasting landscape carpeted in sweetly scented heather.
Address: Larpool Hall, Larpool Drive, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO22 4ND
Room Amenities: Tea & coffee-making facilities, TV, Hairdryer, Toiletries, Wi-Fi
Stay in one of the Hall’s smartly presented rooms, where contemporary design touches complement the original architecture and features. With 29 bedrooms, Larpool Hall has plenty of space and there’s a range of ‘Classic’, ‘Premium’ and ‘Superior’ Rooms to choose from. Choose the very spacious Room 15 on the ground floor for its lemon and grey styling, super-comfy sofa in front of a large fireplace and views across the Esk Valley. Climb to Room 2 on the first floor for similarly expansive vistas from the front of the house, or settle in under the eaves and exposed beams of beautiful Room 30 on the second floor of the house.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Hotel Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, boot room and drying room, extensive garden, multi-purpose activity room, three lounges, library and board games to borrow
After a day exploring the tight and twisty streets of Whitby or the windswept headlands and smugglers’ haunts of the Yorkshire coast, come back to the house and its specially tailored walkers’ facilities. Relax outside in the pretty courtyard or stroll the 14 acres of grounds and gardens with their manicured lawns and mature trees. Grab a well-thumbed copy of Dracula and hole up in the lounge, or join fellow guests in the large ballroom with its comfy seating and central dance floor to discuss your own adventures. The small, sociable bar provides another great space in which to relax.
