Larpool Viaduct: Iconic Victorian Engineering and Scenic Yorkshire Landmark
Historic Victorian brick viaduct towering over the River Esk, now a scenic walking, cycling route and England’s only legal bridge bungee jump site.
Larpool Viaduct, a Grade II listed 13-arch brick structure completed in 1884, spans 915 feet and rises 120 feet above the River Esk near Whitby. Originally a railway viaduct, it now serves as a popular traffic-free walking and cycling route on the Scarborough to Whitby Rail Trail. Known for its dramatic height and historic significance, it offers stunning views of the Esk Valley and is England’s only legal bridge bungee jump site.
A brief summary to Larpool Viaduct
- Larpool Viaduct, 7 Riverside Walk, Whitby, YO22 4NY, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views of the Esk Valley and Whitby from the viaduct.
- Wear sturdy footwear if exploring the full Scarborough to Whitby Rail Trail, which includes varied terrain.
- Consider timing your visit for sunrise or sunset to experience spectacular lighting on the brick arches.
- For thrill-seekers, book a bungee jump in advance as Larpool Viaduct is England’s only legal bridge jump location.
- Bring a camera for iconic photo opportunities of the viaduct’s arches and the surrounding Yorkshire coast.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Whitby railway station, a 20-minute walk along Riverside Walk and Larpool Lane leads directly to the viaduct. The station is well served by trains from Middlesbrough and Scarborough, with tickets costing approximately £10-£20 one way.
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Bus and Walk
Local bus services connect Whitby town center to nearby stops within 1.5 km of Larpool Viaduct. From the bus stop, expect a 15-20 minute walk along flat, paved paths. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5.
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Car
Driving from Whitby town center takes about 5-10 minutes via the A171 and Larpool Lane. Limited parking is available near Riverside Walk; expect to pay around £3-£5 for short-term parking. Note that parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Larpool Viaduct location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Larpool Viaduct
Architectural Marvel of the Victorian Era
Larpool Viaduct is a striking example of Victorian railway engineering, constructed between 1882 and 1884 to carry the Scarborough & Whitby Railway over the deep valley of the River Esk near Whitby. Built entirely from over five million red bricks and cement, the viaduct stretches 279 meters (915 feet) long and towers 36 meters (120 feet) above the river. Its 13 elegant arches, each spanning between 17 and 20 meters, are supported by robust piers with foundations sunk deep into rock or brick-lined wells beneath the riverbed. The design deliberately avoided iron due to the coastal location, giving the structure a distinctive solid brick appearance that has endured for well over a century.Historical Significance and Literary Connection
The viaduct was part of a vital railway link connecting Whitby with Scarborough and Middlesbrough, facilitating transport and commerce in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It also crosses the operational Esk Valley Railway line. The line closed to railway traffic in 1965 following the Beeching Report, but the viaduct’s importance was recognized with a Grade II listing in 1972. The viaduct even features in Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel "Dracula," where its high piers and expansive views are vividly described, embedding it in literary history.Transformation into a Recreational Pathway
In 2000, the viaduct and much of the former railway line were repurposed as part of the Scarborough to Whitby Rail Trail, also known as the Cinder Track. This 21-mile traffic-free route is popular with walkers and cyclists and forms part of the National Cycle Network Route 1 and the North Sea Cycle Route. Extensive restoration work was undertaken in 2006-07 to repair brickwork damaged by weathering, ensuring the viaduct’s continued safety and accessibility for the public. Crossing the viaduct offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Esk Valley, Whitby town, and the surrounding Yorkshire countryside.A Unique Adrenaline Experience
Larpool Viaduct holds the unique distinction of being the only bridge in England legally used for bungee jumping. The jump height is 42 meters (approximately 138 feet), offering thrill-seekers an exhilarating experience over the scenic River Esk. This adrenaline-pumping activity is set against the backdrop of the historic Victorian structure and the natural beauty of the Yorkshire coast, making it a standout attraction for adventure enthusiasts.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated just west of Whitby’s town center, the viaduct is accessible via Riverside Walk and offers a tranquil yet dramatic environment. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks or bike rides across the viaduct, soaking in views of the river’s deep valley and the historic townscape. The surrounding area features a blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage, with the viaduct serving as a vivid reminder of the region’s railway past. Its elevated position provides iconic vistas that are especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.Preservation and Cultural Value
As a Grade II listed structure, Larpool Viaduct is protected for its architectural and historic importance. Its preservation reflects a commitment to maintaining Yorkshire’s industrial heritage while adapting to contemporary recreational uses. The viaduct’s combination of engineering prowess, scenic location, and cultural resonance makes it a treasured landmark in North Yorkshire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitby Walks
1.4 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Whitby with guided tours from Whitby Walks, perfect for every traveler.
Old Town Hall
1.5 km
A neoclassical gem in Whitby’s Market Square, blending centuries of history with vibrant market life and ongoing restoration.
Whitby Harbour West Lighthouse
2.1 km
Historic sentinel guiding ships since 1831—climb 81 steps for harbour views and maritime heritage.
Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
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Historic sandstone lighthouse guarding Whitby Harbour’s entrance, offering timeless maritime charm and stunning coastal views.
Skelton Tower
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Historic Skelton Tower stands as a romantic ruin with sweeping views over Newtondale and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Westmoreland Street
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Explore Darlington from Westmoreland Street, your hub for transport, local culture, and historical attractions in County Durham.
Ludworth Tower
62.4 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
Foss Fairy Trail
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Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Robin Hood Tower
64.2 km
Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
Medieval Walls
64.2 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
City Wall Walk
64.3 km
Explore the historic City Wall Walk in York for breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history in one of England's most delightful cities.
Monk Bar
64.3 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
York City Walls
64.3 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
64.3 km
Explore the grandeur of Treasurer's House in York, a captivating historical museum that unveils the rich tapestry of English heritage.
St Anthonys Garden
64.4 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Cinder Track
1.0 km
Explore the historic Whitby to Scarborough coastal trail, blending Victorian heritage with breathtaking North Yorkshire scenery.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway - (Whitby,Station)
1.2 km
Step aboard vintage steam trains at Whitby Station and journey through the breathtaking North York Moors to experience Yorkshire’s heritage and coastal charm.
Pannett Park
1.2 km
A historic garden oasis in Whitby featuring themed gardens, wildlife, a playground, and cultural treasures including a museum and art gallery.
Esk Valley Railway Development Company
1.2 km
Discover the scenic Esk Valley Line, supported by EVRDC, linking Middlesbrough and Whitby through the beautiful North York Moors.
Whitby Museum
1.2 km
Explore Whitby’s rich maritime heritage and Jurassic past in a charming Edwardian museum set within scenic Pannett Park.
War Memorial
1.2 km
A poignant modern memorial in Whitby honoring local heroes through unique local stone artistry and community spirit.
The Whitby Endeavour
1.2 km
Experience Whitby’s maritime heritage with great food, drinks, and harbour views at The Whitby Endeavour.
Crocodile
1.3 km
A cozy and creative tapas bar in Whitby serving innovative small plates with fine wines and cocktails in an intimate setting.
Black Pearl Boat Trips
1.4 km
Experience Whitby’s coast with lively pirate-themed boat trips offering fun, scenic views, and friendly crew for all ages.
Whitby Antiques & Collectables Emporium
1.4 km
Discover Whitby’s rich heritage through a vast collection of antiques and collectibles in the heart of town’s historic Flowergate street.
Arch & Abbey
1.4 km
A cozy micropub in Whitby offering rotating real ales, Yorkshire gins, homemade cakes, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Whitby Crabbing Corner
1.4 km
Experience the timeless joy of seaside crabbing at Whitby’s charming harbour corner, where family fun meets stunning coastal views.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
1.4 km
Discover the legendary voyages of Captain Cook in Whitby’s historic museum, blending maritime heritage with modern explorations of health at sea and in space.
Whitby Swing Bridge
1.4 km
Experience the charm and history of Whitby Swing Bridge, a stunning landmark connecting the picturesque town with breathtaking views of the River Esk.
Whitby Whale Watching
1.4 km
Seasonal whale watching cruises from Whitby harbour, searching for minke, humpback and other whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds along the Yorkshire coast.
Essential places to dine
Kamthai Thai Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Whitby’s welcoming, modern setting with fresh local ingredients and vibrant Southeast Asian flavors.
Pescado Lounge
1.2 km
Bright, family-friendly Whitby eatery offering inclusive menus, cozy vibes, and dog-friendly hospitality from morning till late.
Trenchers
1.2 km
Savor Whitby's freshest fish and chips in a spacious, family-friendly setting with harbor views and a rich local heritage.
The Vault, Whitby
1.3 km
Historic vaults meet modern British dining in a cozy Whitby restaurant and lounge bar with friendly service and generous portions.
Al Taco
1.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican street food with bold flavors and friendly service in the heart of Whitby at Al Taco.
Emma's Diner
1.4 km
Step into Emma's Diner for hearty American classics and a welcoming retro vibe with tasty vegan options in the heart of Whitby.
Rusty Shears
1.4 km
A vintage-inspired café and bar in Whitby offering hearty breakfasts, homemade cakes, and an extensive gin collection in a quirky, cozy setting.
Moutreys
1.4 km
Experience hearty Italian flavors and rustic charm in the heart of Whitby’s historic district at Moutreys.
Velveteen French Cafe, Bar & Brasserie
1.4 km
Elegant modern French dining in the heart of Whitby, blending classic flavors with a cozy, refined atmosphere.
Humble Pie n Mash Ltd
1.4 km
Savor hearty traditional British pies and mash in a cozy 1940s-themed Whitby eatery rich with nostalgic charm and homemade flavors.
Cranberry Swamp
1.4 km
A relaxed, inclusive café in Whitby serving generous breakfasts, vegan and gluten-free dishes, and some of the best cakes in town.
Ditto
1.4 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Whitby serving fresh, seasonal British dishes with warm, personalized service in an intimate setting.
Cosa Nostra
1.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a charming Grade II listed building in the heart of Whitby, blending heritage with exceptional flavors.
THE FOUR SEASONS RESTAURANT
1.5 km
A welcoming Whitby eatery blending Mediterranean and English classics with famed fish and chips in a central, family-friendly setting.
The Edge Restaurant
1.5 km
A charming Whitby bistro offering fresh seafood, diverse menus, and attentive service in a welcoming coastal setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Goddess Gifts
1.1 km
Discover unique, spiritually inspired gifts and treasures in the heart of historic Whitby at Goddess Gifts.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Whitby)
1.1 km
Premium brands at unbeatable prices in the heart of Whitby's shopping district.
Crafty Cove, Whitby
1.2 km
Discover Whitby’s unique Gothic gift shop and cozy coffee spot blending alternative fashion, creative printing, and welcoming vibes.
Yorkshire Trading Company
1.3 km
A trusted Whitby department store offering diverse home, garden, and everyday essentials with friendly service and great value.
GutsyGingers
1.3 km
Discover Whitby’s vibrant boutique offering handcrafted fashion, unique accessories, and eclectic homewares with a bohemian soul.
The Little Shop of Wonderful Things
1.3 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and quirky curios in the heart of Whitby’s historic Flowergate at The Little Shop of Wonderful Things.
Dryden K & S
1.4 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming souvenirs at Dryden K & S, a welcoming gift shop nestled in the heart of Whitby’s historic town center.
The Bazaar
1.4 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Whitby’s historic Skinner Street.
The Great Goth
1.4 km
Discover Whitby’s ultimate gothic fashion destination with unique clothing, accessories, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Great Goth.
The Crow Emporium
1.4 km
Discover Whitby’s charming literary gift shop offering unique artisan crafts and exclusive illustrated classics in a cozy, creative setting.
Pandemonium
1.4 km
Discover Whitby’s gothic heart at Pandemonium, a unique shop offering alternative fashion and accessories in the town’s historic core.
Whitby Vintage
1.4 km
Discover timeless style and nostalgia at Whitby Vintage, a charming boutique on Flowergate offering curated retro fashion in a historic town setting.
Whitby Wholefoods & Propagansey
1.4 km
A charming Whitby shop blending natural wholefoods, vitamins, and hand-made wool for health and craft enthusiasts alike.
The Owl & The Pussycat
1.4 km
Whimsical boutique fashion in historic Whitby's charming heart.
Rainbow Shells
1.5 km
Discover unique local treasures, spiritual gems, and charming souvenirs at Rainbow Shells, Whitby’s cozy gift shop in the heart of town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Waiting Room
1.2 km
A cozy micro pub at Whitby Station offering local ales, friendly vibes, and a unique railway atmosphere.
Middle Earth Tavern
1.2 km
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Station Inn Whitby
1.2 km
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Jk's Bar
1.2 km
A lively, no-frills bar and club in Whitby known for dance music, live sports, and a raw local atmosphere.
Macy Brown's - Cocktail Bar Whitby
1.2 km
Stylish harborside cocktail bar in Whitby with stunning views, creative drinks, and a tempting tapas menu for sharing and socializing.
The Whitby Way
1.2 km
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NO54 bistro bar
1.2 km
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Little Angel
1.3 km
A traditional Whitby pub with cozy rooms, lively entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Fleece
1.3 km
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The Black Swan
1.3 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending classic charm with lively nights and friendly service on Baxtergate.
The Elsinore
1.3 km
A traditional Whitby pub blending warm hospitality, lively music, and authentic local charm on historic Flowergate.
Beer oclock
1.3 km
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The Esk Vaults
1.4 km
Discover Whitby’s cozy upstairs pub with craft beers, homemade food, and a welcoming family-friendly vibe at The Esk Vaults.
The Golden Lion
1.4 km
A lively Irish pub in Whitby offering authentic music, quirky charm, and great value in a historic coastal town setting.
The Endeavour
1.4 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Whitby’s harbour, famed for real ales, live music, and warm Yorkshire hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Videotheque Disco's
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
41.4 km
Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
41.4 km
Experience Middlesbrough’s energetic nightlife at Stereo Club Tees, a lively nightclub hosting up to 500 guests with late-night music and dancing.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
64.7 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
BlueBox
64.8 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
64.9 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
65.0 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Club Salvation
65.0 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
65.1 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
65.1 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
65.1 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
7even Nightclub
68.6 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
24 North Bailey Club
69.9 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Durham's 24 North Bailey Club, where good drinks and great company await.
Klute
70.0 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Osbournes
70.1 km
Experience Durham's vibrant nightlife at Osbournes, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
