
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.

๐ฅพ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for the 21-mile journey.
๐ง Pack Plenty of Water
Limited facilities along the route, so stay hydrated, especially on longer treks.

Quick Facts
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
๐ฅพ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for the 21-mile journey.
๐ง Pack Plenty of Water
Limited facilities along the route, so stay hydrated, especially on longer treks.
๐ Bring Snacks & Picnic
Fuel your adventure with treats! Perfect for enjoying scenic stops.
๐บ๏ธ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy; ensure you have your route planned.
Tips
from all over the internet
๐ฅพ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear are essential for the 21-mile journey.
๐ง Pack Plenty of Water
Limited facilities along the route, so stay hydrated, especially on longer treks.
๐ Bring Snacks & Picnic
Fuel your adventure with treats! Perfect for enjoying scenic stops.
๐บ๏ธ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy; ensure you have your route planned.
๐ธ 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
๐ ๐บ๏ธ 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.
๐ซ ๐ซ 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.
๐ซ ๐ถ 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.
๐ฝ๏ธ ๐ฝ๏ธ 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.
๐ธ ๐ธ 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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit