Cleveland Way
A stunning 109-mile National Trail tracing the North York Moors and Yorkshire coast, offering dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and sea vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Magical light for photos
Cleveland Way
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 109-mile National Trail tracing the North York Moors and Yorkshire coast, offering dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and sea vistas.
"Great coastal walk with wonderful sights, though can be windy and exposed."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Expect varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents. Good grip is essential for safety.
🌊 Check Tides for Bays
Plan your route carefully if you want to explore bays; some can be inaccessible at high tide.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Robin Hood's Bay
Southern end of the trail
Iconic fishing village with steep streets and stunning coastal views. A must-see section.
Staithes to Whitby
North Yorkshire Coast
A picturesque hike connecting charming fishing villages with dramatic sea vistas.
Saltburn-by-the-Sea
North Yorkshire Coast
Explore the pier and follow the trail south to discover hidden charms like the 'Charm Bracelet'.
Scarborough to Filey
North Yorkshire Coast
A scenic coastal walk featuring dramatic cliffs, bays, and a rewarding finish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Plan Your Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Expect varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents. Good grip is essential for safety.
🌊 Check Tides for Bays
Plan your route carefully if you want to explore bays; some can be inaccessible at high tide.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Coastal paths are exposed. Layers, waterproofs, and wind protection are highly recommended.
🚶♀️ Section Hiking is Popular
Many visitors tackle sections over a weekend, like the popular route to Robin Hood's Bay.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Expect varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents. Good grip is essential for safety.
🌊 Check Tides for Bays
Plan your route carefully if you want to explore bays; some can be inaccessible at high tide.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Coastal paths are exposed. Layers, waterproofs, and wind protection are highly recommended.
🚶♀️ Section Hiking is Popular
Many visitors tackle sections over a weekend, like the popular route to Robin Hood's Bay.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Sections
The trail is generally dog-friendly, but keep them on a lead where advised and be mindful of livestock.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Cleveland Way is lauded for its breathtaking coastal views and challenging yet rewarding walks, particularly sections like Robin Hood's Bay and the Scarborough to Whitby stretch. While the wind and exposed nature of the path can be demanding, the stunning scenery and sense of accomplishment make it a highly recommended experience for hikers.
"Great walk from filey to Scarborough quite a few steps up and down and narrow paths Great views on a good day 😀 👍"
keefwirral1
"Walked 23miles from Scarborough to Whitby on the Cleveland way. Was hard going at some points but a great achievement. Including a couple of stops it took just under 8 hours. If you like a challenge give it a go."
cameron mcdonagh
"A great coastal walk. Yes can be windy and very exposed but wonderful sights to be had. Always check the tides if you are wanting to pop down to the many little bays and plan your routes carefully. Personally, I enjoy walking sections for sunrise and sunsets. Enjoy."
James Smith (The Lincoln Photographer)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cleveland Way National Trail stretches from Helmsley to Filey. You can access various points via public transport, including buses that connect towns like Scarborough, Whitby, and Staithes. Some visitors use buses to reach trailheads and then walk back to their accommodation or a transport hub.
While you can drive to many start and end points of sections, parking can be limited in popular villages like Robin Hood's Bay. Consider using public transport for flexibility, especially if you're not doing a linear walk.
Key towns and villages along the route include Helmsley, Sutton Bank, Osmotherley, Kildale, Great Ayton, Whitby, Staithes, and Filey. Scarborough is also a significant point. 
Yes, the Cleveland Way is a 109-mile National Trail. It's often walked in sections over several days or a week, but a continuous hike is possible for experienced trekkers.
Parking is available in many of the villages and towns along the route, such as Scarborough, Whitby, and Saltburn. However, spaces can fill up quickly during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Cleveland Way is a public footpath and a National Trail, so there are no entry fees or tickets required to walk it.
The Cleveland Way is open 24/7, year-round. However, daylight hours and weather conditions will significantly impact your experience and safety.
No permits are required for general hiking on the Cleveland Way. It's a public right of way.
While there isn't one central visitor center for the entire trail, information can often be found at local tourist information points in towns like Whitby and Scarborough.
Some local organizations and tour operators may offer guided walks. It's best to check with local tourist information or online adventure providers.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The terrain varies greatly, from gentle coastal paths and clifftop walks to steep ascents and descents, especially around bays and headlands. Some sections involve many steps.
This depends on the section and your pace. A 10-mile walk can take around 7 hours, while a 23-mile hike took one person just under 8 hours. Younger walkers may be quicker.
Absolutely! The trail offers stunning coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and views of the North Sea. Sunrise and sunset walks are particularly recommended for their beauty.
Some sections are suitable for families, especially those with older children who can manage varied terrain and inclines. Shorter, flatter sections might be better for younger children.
Carry a map and compass or a reliable GPS device. The trail is generally well-marked, but it's always wise to be prepared. Inform someone of your route and expected return time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find pubs, cafes, and restaurants in the villages and towns along the route, such as Whitby, Staithes, and Saltburn. Some walks include stops at places like 'The Salty Dog'.
Definitely! The coastal path offers numerous scenic spots perfect for a picnic with breathtaking sea views. Pack your own supplies for a delightful outdoor meal.
Most pubs and cafes in the towns along the route will offer vegetarian options. Vegan choices may be more limited, so it's worth checking menus in advance or packing snacks.
Prices vary, but expect typical UK pub and cafe prices. A meal at a halfway point pub might be around £15-£20 per person.
You can buy snacks and drinks in the villages you pass through. However, for longer stretches between settlements, it's advisable to carry your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire coastal stretch offers incredible photo opportunities, especially dramatic cliffs, charming fishing villages like Robin Hood's Bay and Staithes, and sea views.
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic light for coastal photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive seascapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby Abbey (visible from parts of the trail), Staithes harbour, and the Saltburn Pier are all iconic photographic subjects.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale to the vast coastal scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider shorter, less strenuous sections, and always check the terrain for suitability. Bringing along snacks and making it a treasure hunt for interesting shells or rock formations can keep younger ones engaged. Key recommendations include focusing on accessible villages like Whitby, where there's plenty to see and do beyond the trail itself, such as the Captain Cook Memorial Museum or the Abbey. Ensure you have plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for varied weather. The experience of walking along the coast and discovering charming villages can be very rewarding for the whole family.
🐶 Dog Owners
Important considerations include keeping your dog on a lead where required, especially in areas with livestock or near cliff edges. Be mindful of other walkers and their pets. Always carry water for your dog and be aware of any local restrictions. The varied terrain means some sections might be more challenging for older or less mobile dogs.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Tips for solo hikers include informing someone of your itinerary, carrying a fully charged phone, and being prepared for all weather conditions. Consider staying in hostels or B&Bs in the towns along the route for social interaction and practical advice. The sense of achievement from completing sections or the entire trail solo can be incredibly empowering.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cleveland Way: A Hiker's Guide
Key sections often highlighted by hikers include the dramatic descent into Robin Hood's Bay, the picturesque villages of Staithes and Whitby, and the scenic stretch from Scarborough to Filey. These areas offer a blend of natural beauty and charming local culture. Many visitors opt for a multi-day trek, staying in B&Bs or campsites along the route, while others prefer day hikes from accessible towns.
+2Practical considerations include the varied terrain, which can be challenging with steep ascents and descents, particularly near the coast. Sturdy walking boots are essential, and packing layers of clothing is crucial due to the exposed nature of the path. Checking tide times is also important if you plan to explore the bays, as some routes can become impassable at high tide.
Capturing the Magic: Photography on the Cleveland Way
Iconic locations like Robin Hood's Bay, with its maze of narrow streets and historic cottages tumbling down to the sea, provide endless compositional possibilities. Staithes, another picturesque fishing village, offers a more intimate harbour view. Further along, Whitby, with its famous Abbey ruins perched on the hill, provides a dramatic backdrop. The 'Charm Bracelet' near Saltburn is a unique feature worth capturing.
+2Tips for photographers include arriving early for sunrise or staying late for sunset to catch the best light. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the sea and coastline, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and consider the weather; dramatic skies often make for the most compelling images.
A Taste of the Coast: Food and Drink Along the Trail
Popular stops include the 'Salty Dog' mentioned by one reviewer, offering a halfway point for a break. In towns like Whitby, you can find excellent fish and chips, a quintessential coastal experience. Staithes and Robin Hood's Bay also boast traditional pubs and tea rooms where you can refuel and soak in the local atmosphere.
Planning your meals is part of the adventure. While villages offer amenities, longer stretches between settlements mean it's wise to carry snacks and water. For those with specific dietary needs, checking menus in advance or packing suitable options is recommended, as vegan and vegetarian choices can vary.
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