Cinder Track Scarborough Whitby
A 21-mile former railway line connecting Scarborough and Whitby, perfect for scenic walks and cycles with stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Cinder Track Scarborough Whitby
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 21-mile former railway line connecting Scarborough and Whitby, perfect for scenic walks and cycles with stunning coastal views.
"The Cinder Track is an absolutely fantastic walking route, especially for beginners or those looking for a relaxing, scenic stroll."
🚶♀️ Walk the Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay
This 7-mile section is ideal for beginners and offers amazing sea views.
🚴 Cycle the Full 21 Miles
A popular route for cyclists, offering varied scenery from coast to countryside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay
South of Whitby
A popular 7-mile stretch offering stunning coastal views and leading to a charming village. Perfect for a day trip.
Larpool Viaduct
Near Whitby
An impressive old railway viaduct providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Coastal Vistas
Various points along the track
Enjoy breathtaking views of the North Sea and Yorkshire coastline, especially as you approach Robin Hood's Bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Timing is Key for Views and Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay
This 7-mile section is ideal for beginners and offers amazing sea views.
🚴 Cycle the Full 21 Miles
A popular route for cyclists, offering varied scenery from coast to countryside.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The track is mostly flat and well-maintained, but good footwear is essential for longer walks.
🥶 Beware of Winter Ice
The highest points can get icy in winter, so exercise caution.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay
This 7-mile section is ideal for beginners and offers amazing sea views.
🚴 Cycle the Full 21 Miles
A popular route for cyclists, offering varied scenery from coast to countryside.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The track is mostly flat and well-maintained, but good footwear is essential for longer walks.
🥶 Beware of Winter Ice
The highest points can get icy in winter, so exercise caution.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal panoramas and historical railway remnants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Cinder Track is highly praised for its accessibility, stunning coastal and countryside views, and historical charm. It's lauded as an ideal route for walking and cycling, particularly the Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay section, offering a peaceful escape. Some find the full 21 miles challenging but rewarding.
"This is a fantastic track with multiple tracks meandering off it if you want to make little detours. We walked from the start of the track in Whitby to Robins hood bay, where it meets the Cleveland Way. Really easy flat walk (It can get icy in the winter months at it's highest point). Stunning views from the Larpool via duct and amazing sea views the nearer you get to Robins Hood Bay where you can get a well deserved drink and bite to eat in the Bay pub at the bottom of the hill. It's about 6.5 miles and suitable for families and most fitness levels."
Andy O'Neill
"The Cinder Track is an absolutely fantastic walking route, especially for beginners or those looking for a relaxing, scenic stroll. Your description is spot on: it's a very flat, easy path, making it perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
What makes this section of the Cinder Track so appealing is its location. It's a really scenic route that offers stunning views of the North Sea coastline and the surrounding countryside. As a disused railway line, the path is wide and well-maintained, providing a smooth surface that's easy to walk on, even after rain. It's a world away from the rugged, cliff-top path of the Cleveland Way, making it a much more accessible option.
The walk from Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay is a perfect short-to-medium distance for a day trip. At approximately 7 miles (11.5 km), it's a manageable walk that can be completed in a few hours, leaving you plenty of time to explore the picturesque village of Robin Hood's Bay. You can wander through its narrow, winding streets, visit the beach, and enjoy a well-deserved pub lunch before catching a bus back to Whitby. The bus journey is a great option for a circular walk, or you can simply retrace your steps along the flat and easy Cinder Track.
The path is also a great place for wildlife spotting and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling town center. The old railway bridges and station platforms add a touch of historical charm to the route.
In short, if you're looking for a beautiful, flat, and easy walk that offers incredible views and leads to one of the most charming villages on the Yorkshire coast, the Cinder Track from Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay is an excellent choice. It’s a highlight for any visitor to the area."
Marc Sterland
"Went from Whitby to Ravonscar and back, stunning views and fantastic countryside, can't wait to do the rest of it to Scarborough."
Jon Timmins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Cinder Track from various points in Scarborough. Many start near the town center or head towards the coast. Public transport options are available to reach different starting points along the route.
The Cinder Track begins in Whitby, often near the old railway station. You can easily find access points to start your walk or cycle towards Scarborough.
While the track itself is traffic-free, there are parking areas near access points in Scarborough, Whitby, and smaller villages along the route, such as Robin Hood's Bay.
Yes, both Scarborough and Whitby are well-connected by public transport. Buses also run between villages like Robin Hood's Bay and Whitby, making it easy to do a one-way trip.
The main train stations are in Scarborough and Whitby, serving as excellent starting or ending points for your Cinder Track adventure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Cinder Track is a public right of way and is free to access for walking, cycling, and running.
The Cinder Track is an outdoor public path and is accessible at all times. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for the Cinder Track. It's a disused railway line that has been converted into a public footpath and cycleway.
While there aren't official guided tours, local walking groups or cycling clubs may organize events. You can also find historical information online or at local visitor centers.
The track is generally open to walkers, cyclists, and runners. Please be mindful of other users and adhere to any local signage. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Cinder Track is predominantly flat and well-maintained, as it follows the old railway line. It's ideal for easy walking and cycling.
Walking the full 21 miles can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Many people opt for shorter sections.
Yes, the flat and wide path makes it very suitable for families with young children, including those with pushchairs. The Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay section is particularly popular.
Yes, there are pubs and cafes in Whitby, Robin Hood's Bay, and other villages along the route. It's advisable to carry water and snacks, especially for longer journeys.
You'll experience beautiful coastal views of the North Sea, rolling countryside, and historical railway features like viaducts.
📸 📸 Photography
The Larpool Viaduct near Whitby offers dramatic perspectives. Coastal stretches, especially near Robin Hood's Bay, provide stunning sea views.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the coastal landscapes. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Yes, remnants of the old railway line, such as old bridges, platforms, and the Larpool Viaduct, offer unique photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture distant coastal features. A sturdy tripod is useful for sunrise/sunset shots.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and privacy considerations. Always check and comply with current rules before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for old railway features along the way, which can spark children's imaginations about the past. The open spaces also provide opportunities for children to run around and enjoy the fresh air. Remember to check the weather and dress accordingly, as it can be exposed in places.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Beginners
Consider downloading offline maps or using a GPS device for navigation, especially if you plan to explore off-track. The ability to easily catch a bus back from Robin Hood's Bay to Whitby also provides a convenient fallback if needed. Enjoy the peace and quiet, and the opportunity to connect with nature.
🚴 Cyclists
The surface is generally smooth, making for an enjoyable cycling experience. Fuel up with local Yorkshire fare before or after your ride. Many cyclists enjoy starting their day with breakfast in Scarborough or Whitby and finishing with a well-deserved pint and pie. The route offers plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views, making it a memorable cycling adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Cinder Track
Today, the disused railway line has been transformed into a beloved recreational path. The 'Cinder Track' name likely refers to the cinders and ballast that formed the original track bed. This transformation has preserved a piece of local history while providing a valuable amenity for walkers, cyclists, and runners, allowing them to experience the landscape and heritage of the Yorkshire coast in a unique way.
Along the route, you can still spot remnants of its railway past, including old bridges, viaducts like the impressive Larpool Viaduct near Whitby, and former station platforms. These historical markers add a layer of interest to the journey, connecting modern-day visitors with the stories of those who traveled these tracks over a century ago.
Walking and Cycling the Cinder Track
For cyclists, the track provides a largely traffic-free environment, making it ideal for families and those who prefer to avoid busy roads. The varied terrain, from coastal paths to rolling countryside, offers an engaging ride. Cyclists can enjoy the convenience of reaching both towns and stopping at various points along the way.
+1Walkers will find the Cinder Track to be an accessible and rewarding experience. Its gentle gradients make it suitable for all fitness levels, including families with young children and those looking for a leisurely stroll. The opportunity to explore charming villages like Robin Hood's Bay and enjoy the fresh sea air makes it a highlight for many visitors to the Yorkshire coast.
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