Whitby Cinder Tack 5 (from Larpool Viaduct)

Route Overview & Local Insights

Experience a smooth and scenic 5km out-and-back journey along the historic Whitby Cinder Track. Starting at the impressive Larpool Viaduct, this route offers runners a 100% paved, well-surfaced path that follows the gentle gradients of a former railway line. With just 55m of ascent, it is an accessible choice for those looking for a steady tempo run or a reliable local session. You will enjoy a sense of enclosure and protection from the coastal North Sea winds thanks to the thick hedgerows that line much of the path, providing a tranquil, green corridor that feels worlds away from the bustling town center.

The Whitby Cinder Track is steeped in North Yorkshire history, following the old Scarborough to Whitby railway line which closed in 1965. Crossing the Larpool Viaduct at the start of your run provides one of the best vantage points in the area, offering a breathtaking 120-foot high view over the River Esk and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. As you head toward Stainsacre, look out for local wildlife and the remnants of the area’s industrial heritage. It’s a favorite among local Harriers and visiting runners alike who seek a flat, fast surface that bypasses the steep, taxing hills typical of this rugged coastal landscape.