
Explore the Esk Valley by train. The BR train runs from Whitby to Middlesbrough and stops in Ruswarp at the station just 2 minutes walk from the cottage. Your journey passes through Sleights, Grosmont, Egton, Glaisdale, Lealholm, Danby Castleton, Commondale, Kildale & Great Ayton before ending in Middlesbrough.
The scenery is spectacular and you see views not seen from a car. If you like to walk, there is the Esk Valley Walk which can be accessed from any of the village stations. Just catch the train to one of the village stations, then walk back 1 or 2 stations before picking up the return train back to the cottage. Or take the train to Great Ayton and climb to the top of Roseberry Topping for a panoramic view of Teesside and the North York Moors.
If walking is not for you, you could indulge in some retail therapy in Middlesbrough. The shopping precinct is only 5 minutes walk from the station. You can find all the big name shops there too.
The line is subsidised so prices are reasonable - just £7.80 adult day return, Whitby to Middlesbrough.