Cleveland Way
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Cleveland Way

4.9
·42 reviews·, United Kingdom

A stunning 109-mile National Trail tracing the North York Moors and Yorkshire coast, offering dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and sea vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Magical light for photos

CrowdLow
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Cleveland Way

Cleveland Way

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Magical light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.9
(42 reviews)

"Great coastal walk with wonderful sights, though can be windy and exposed."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 42 reviews

Type

Hiking Area

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Robin Hood's Bay

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

Staithes to Whitby

North Yorkshire Coast

A picturesque hike connecting charming fishing villages with dramatic sea vistas.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

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

Scarborough to Filey

North Yorkshire Coast

A scenic coastal walk featuring dramatic cliffs, bays, and a rewarding finish.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

The Cleveland Way is a coastal path, so expect wind and changeable weather. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy walking boots. Check tide times before descending to bays, as some routes can be cut off.

Plan Your Pace

This trail spans 109 miles, but many enjoy sections. Consider your fitness; some parts involve steep ascents and descents, like the 144 flights of stairs mentioned by one walker. Plan your stops and transport accordingly.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Autumn
Why
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Best chance for clear views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

you mind if I come over and stare at you in an offer putting way? #renaissancefestival #renfaire #scarborough #renfaireoutfit #renfairetiktok #scarboroughrenaissancefestival #jester #clown #clownlook #clownmakeup #jesteroc #OOTD #garb
@sleepiecircus
2.2K likes • 16.6K views

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Expect varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents. Good grip is essential for safety. Instagram

🌊 Check Tides for Bays

Plan your route carefully if you want to explore bays; some can be inaccessible at high tide. Reddit

Cleveland Way Scarborough to Whitby #scarborough #whitby #clevelandwaynationaltrail #viral
_.mxkee
9.9K likes • 204.4K views
Cleveland Way trail from Clay Bank to Wainstones . . . . . . . #reels #travelreel #travelvlog #hiking #hikinguk #hikingvlog #vlog #vlogreel #nature #hikingreel #hike #clevelandway #ukhiking #wainstones #claybank
taniatravelstories
62 likes • 1.1K views

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Coastal paths are exposed. Layers, waterproofs, and wind protection are highly recommended. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Section Hiking is Popular

Many visitors tackle sections over a weekend, like the popular route to Robin Hood's Bay. Instagram

Walking part of The Cleveland Way. Much up and down - 144 flights of stairs and 18k that day! We earned our dinner! #clevelandway #saltburnbythesea #staithes
helen.olney
26 likes • 337 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Expect varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents. Good grip is essential for safety. Instagram

🌊 Check Tides for Bays

Plan your route carefully if you want to explore bays; some can be inaccessible at high tide. Reddit

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Coastal paths are exposed. Layers, waterproofs, and wind protection are highly recommended. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Section Hiking is Popular

Many visitors tackle sections over a weekend, like the popular route to Robin Hood's Bay. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Sections

The trail is generally dog-friendly, but keep them on a lead where advised and be mindful of livestock. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(42 reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Spectacular coastal views
Challenging hikes
Picturesque villages

What People Dislike

Can be very windy
Steep ascents/descents

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

The Cleveland Way is open 24/7, year-round. However, daylight hours and weather conditions will significantly impact your experience and safety. Instagram

No permits are required for general hiking on the Cleveland Way. It's a public right of way. Instagram

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. Instagram

Some local organizations and tour operators may offer guided walks. It's best to check with local tourist information or online adventure providers. Instagram

🎫 🚶‍♀️ 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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'. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Prices vary, but expect typical UK pub and cafe prices. A meal at a halfway point pub might be around £15-£20 per person. Reddit

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic light for coastal photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the landscape. Reddit

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. Instagram

Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby Abbey (visible from parts of the trail), Staithes harbour, and the Saltburn Pier are all iconic photographic subjects. Instagram+2

Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale to the vast coastal scenery. Instagram

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