The Cleveland Way is a National Trail in northern England, known for its stunning combination of moorland and coastal scenery. It offers a diverse walking experience, taking hikers through the North York Moors National Park and along the dramatic coastline of the North Sea.
| Distance | 110 miles (177 km) |
| Duration | 9-12 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
Key Features:
- Length: 110 miles (177 km)
- Start and End Points: The Cleveland Way starts in Helmsley, a market town in the North York Moors, and finishes in the seaside town of Filey on the Yorkshire coast.
- Designated: The Cleveland Way became a National Trail in 1969, making it one of the oldest in the network.
Terrain:
The Cleveland Way is known for its contrasting landscapes:
- Moorland: The first half of the route takes walkers through the rolling heather-clad hills of the North York Moors, offering expansive views of the countryside.
- Coastline: The second half follows the stunning North Sea coast, with steep cliffs, charming fishing villages, and sandy bays.
Highlights:
- Helmsley: The starting point, known for Helmsley Castle and the Helmsley Walled Garden.
- Rievaulx Abbey: A picturesque ruin of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, just off the trail near Helmsley.
- Roseberry Topping: A distinctive hill offering panoramic views, often compared to a mini Matterhorn.
- Whitby: A historic seaside town famous for its connections to Captain Cook and Whitby Abbey, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
- Robin Hood’s Bay: A quaint fishing village, known for its narrow streets and smuggling history.
- Filey Brigg: The dramatic headland where the Cleveland Way ends, providing spectacular coastal views.
Difficulty:
The Cleveland Way is moderately challenging, with a mix of steep climbs and level walking, particularly on the coastal sections where cliff paths can be rugged. The moorland stretches can be exposed, while the coastal paths may involve narrow cliffside routes.
Natural Beauty:
- North York Moors: Famous for its heather moorland, with vibrant purple landscapes during late summer.
- Coastal Views: The second half of the walk offers stunning cliff-top vistas, sea views, and a chance to see wildlife, including seabirds like puffins and gannets.
Popularity:
The Cleveland Way is a popular trail, attracting walkers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts. It is often completed in about 9-12 days, but many people also enjoy shorter sections of the trail, such as day walks along the coast or through the moors.
The trail is well-maintained, with clear waymarking using the National Trail’s acorn symbol, making it easy to navigate. It’s especially popular during the summer months for those wanting to explore both the inland beauty of the moors and the striking coastal scenery.