Walking North Yorkshire's Coastline
The Ultimate Guide to Coastal Paths
- Stories & Inspiration
- Coastal Paths
North Yorkshire's coastline is home to some of England's most memorable walking and cycling routes. From dramatic cliff-top paths to long-distance national trails. Expect sweeping sea views, charming fishing villages and miles of unspoilt countryside.
Cleveland Way National Trail
Stretching 109 miles (175km), The Cleveland Way National Trail takes walkers on an unforgettable journey.
Beginning in Helmsley, the route crosses the North York Moors National Park before reaching the coast at Saltburn. From there, the trail follows dramatic clifftops and stunning coastal scenery, passing through much-loved destinations including Whitby, Robin Hood's Bay, Scarborough before reaching Filey.
Many walkers tackle the trail in stages. The route is suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, although some sections can be challenging.
King Charles III England Coast Path
This ambitious National Trail will eventually follow the entire English coastline, creating the world's longest managed coastal walking route.
The North Yorkshire section is approximately 55-60 miles (89-97 km), and shares much of its route with The Cleveland Way, joining the coastline at Staithes and following the dramatic clifftops south through Runswick Bay, Sandsend, Whitby, Robin Hood's Bay, Scarborough and Filey.
This route is ideal for walking a short section and those longer adventures.
The Cinder Track
Once a railway line connecting Scarborough and Whitby, The Cinder Track is now a popular 21.7mile (35km) traffic-free route for walkers and cyclists.
Starting in Scarborough, the route heads north through Burniston and Cloughton before entering the North York Moors National Park.
Ravenscar marks the highest point of the route, rewarding visitors with sweeping coastal views. The trail continues through woodland overlooking Robin Hood's Bay before reaching Hawsker and eventually Whitby.
Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail
While best known for its rolling countryside, The Yorkshire Wolds Way finishes with a spectacular coastal finale at Filey Brigg.
The 79 mile (127km) trail travels through one of England's most peaceful landscapes, winding through valleys, chalk hills, ancient villages and market towns.
The final section descends from The Wolds to the coast, saving the best views until last on the peninsular of Filey Brigg.
Coast to Coast Path National Trail
One of England's most iconic long-distance walks, the Coast to Coast Path stretches almost 200 miles (321km) from St Bees on the Cumbrian coast to Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire.
Crossing three national parks, the route takes walkers through the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, showcasing some of England's most spectacular landscapes along the way.
The journey finishes in Robin Hood's Bay, a picturesque fishing village on the Yorkshire coast that's well worth crossing the country to discover. Be sure to pick up your Coast to Coast Passport, packed with useful information and exclusive offers to take advantage of along the way.
Whether you're exploring a seaside town or embarking on an epic long-distance challenge, North Yorkshire's walking trails offer endless opportunities to discover the beauty of the coast. There's a route waiting for every kind of adventurer.
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