
Cinder Track Whitby Scarborough
A 21-mile former railway line connecting Scarborough and Whitby, perfect for scenic walks and cycling adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Cinder Track Whitby Scarborough
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 21-mile former railway line connecting Scarborough and Whitby, perfect for scenic walks and cycling adventures.
"The Cinder Track offers stunning coastal views and a journey through history, ideal for active explorers."

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for the 21-mile journey.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Limited facilities along the route, so stay hydrated, especially on longer treks.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Old Railway Viaducts
Various points along the track
Majestic remnants of the past, these impressive viaducts offer stunning views and a glimpse into the railway's history.

Coastal Vistas
Between Burniston and Cloughton
Enjoy breathtaking sea views as the track hugs the North Yorkshire coastline, offering picturesque panoramas.

Hayburn Wyke
Near Ravenscar
A secluded cove with a waterfall, accessible via a short detour from the Cinder Track. A perfect spot for a picnic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Choose Your Adventure: Walk, Cycle, or Run
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for the 21-mile journey.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Limited facilities along the route, so stay hydrated, especially on longer treks.
🍎 Bring Snacks & Picnic
Fuel your adventure with treats! Perfect for enjoying scenic stops.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy; ensure you have your route planned.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for the 21-mile journey.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Limited facilities along the route, so stay hydrated, especially on longer treks.
🍎 Bring Snacks & Picnic
Fuel your adventure with treats! Perfect for enjoying scenic stops.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy; ensure you have your route planned.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is stunning; don't forget your camera or phone!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Cinder Track for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and suitability for various outdoor activities. The well-maintained path and stunning coastal views are frequently highlighted. Some find the lack of amenities and the length of the full route challenging, but most agree it's a worthwhile adventure.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can start your journey directly from Scarborough. The track begins on the outskirts of town, easily accessible by local buses or a short taxi ride. Many cyclists begin their ride from Scarborough.
Similarly, Whitby is the other end of the Cinder Track. Access points are available from the town, allowing you to start your walk or cycle from here.
While the track itself is a former railway line, there are no direct public transport services on the track. However, buses run between Scarborough and Whitby, which can be used for one-way trips.
Parking is available in both Scarborough and Whitby. Some smaller villages along the route may offer limited parking, but it's best to plan your access points in advance.
For a day trip, consider cycling one way and taking a bus back, or vice versa. Alternatively, walk a section and return, or use a taxi service for shorter segments.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Cinder Track is a public footpath and cycleway, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to use it. It's free to explore!
As an outdoor public path, the Cinder Track is accessible at all times. However, it's advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The Cinder Track is generally well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible for many wheelchairs and mobility scooters. However, some sections might have uneven surfaces.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Cinder Track, but they must be kept on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or near the coast.
Yes, you'll find remnants of the old railway line, including old signal posts and information boards detailing the history of the Scarborough & Whitby Railway.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The surface is primarily compacted gravel and cinder, making it ideal for cycling and walking. It's generally smooth but can be a bit uneven in places.
Walking the full 21 miles can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Many people break it into sections.
Cycling the 21 miles can take around 2-4 hours, depending on your speed and any stops. Some cyclists complete a round trip of 40 miles.
There are limited facilities directly on the track. You'll find villages like Ravenscar and Cloughton with pubs or cafes. Whitby and Scarborough offer extensive options.
Expect a mix of coastal views, rolling countryside, and remnants of the old railway line. You'll pass through charming villages and enjoy expansive North Yorkshire landscapes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Directly on the track, options are scarce. However, villages like Ravenscar and Cloughton have pubs. Whitby and Scarborough offer a wide array of dining choices.
Ravenscar has a cafe and a pub, offering places to rest and refuel. It's a popular stop for those walking or cycling the Cinder Track.
Whitby is famous for its fish and chips, but also offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants serving local produce.
Scarborough boasts numerous cafes, restaurants, and traditional seaside eateries, including plenty of fish and chip shops.
Yes, it's highly recommended to pack snacks and a picnic, as facilities are spread out. This allows you to enjoy meals with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Look out for the old railway viaducts, panoramic coastal views, charming villages, and the unique landscapes of the North York Moors.
The coastal sections offer beautiful light for sunrise and sunset. The open nature of the track allows for wide-angle shots of the sky and sea.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides the best light for photography, highlighting the textures and colours of the landscape.
The viaducts, Hayburn Wyke, and the coastal stretches near Ravenscar are particularly photogenic.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of distant coastlines or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are spread out. Stopping at villages like Ravenscar can provide a welcome break. The historical remnants of the railway line can also spark children's imaginations. Remember to check the weather and dress children appropriately for the conditions.
🚴♀️ Cycling Enthusiasts
Consider a one-way trip using public transport to maximize your cycling time. For those seeking a longer ride, the full 40-mile round trip is achievable for fit cyclists. The route is also a great base for exploring off-track gravel routes into the North York Moors.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and carry essentials like water and snacks. The route is well-signposted, but having an offline map can be helpful. Consider incorporating a visit to Hayburn Wyke for a scenic detour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Scarborough & Whitby Railway
However, like many rural railways, it struggled with declining passenger numbers and increasing competition from road transport. The line was eventually closed to passengers in 1953 and fully closed in 1965 as part of the Beeching cuts. The tracks were lifted, leaving behind the embankment and structures that now form the Cinder Track.
Today, the Cinder Track is a testament to this lost railway heritage. Its transformation into a recreational path allows visitors to explore the landscape and imagine the steam trains that once traversed this route. Information boards along the way often detail the history of specific stations and engineering marvels.
Cycling the Cinder Track: Tips for a Smooth Ride
Many cyclists opt for a one-way journey, utilizing the bus services that connect Scarborough and Whitby to avoid a strenuous round trip. If you're planning a full 40-mile round trip, ensure you have adequate fitness and plenty of supplies. Consider starting early to make the most of daylight and cooler temperatures.
Cyclists often praise the varied scenery, from coastal panoramas to inland countryside. Some sections offer more challenging gravel or even cobbles, adding an element of adventure. Remember to check your tire pressure and brakes before setting off, and be mindful of other users on the track.
Walking the Cinder Track: A Scenic Stroll
The path is generally well-defined and easy to follow, making it suitable for all fitness levels. The relatively flat terrain means you can focus on enjoying the views rather than strenuous climbs. Many walkers choose to incorporate detours to nearby attractions like Hayburn Wyke for a more varied experience.
When planning your walk, remember that amenities are limited. Carrying sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate footwear is crucial. The changing coastal weather means it's wise to be prepared for sun, wind, and rain, even on a summer's day.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit