Cleveland Way

The Cleveland Way makes a horseshoe shape through north-east Yorkshire — inland across the North York Moors from Helmsley south to Sutton Bank, then north along the western escarpment of the moors, before turning east and following the coast from Saltburn to Filey. It is one of the few National Trails that combines true moorland running with dramatic coastal running.

For trail runners it is a three to five day challenge, typically covered in manageable stages between market towns. The moorland section gives fast, open running on good tracks; the coastal section alternates between clifftop paths and beach crossings. Whitby Abbey and the North Yorkshire fishing villages are the cultural highlights.

The waymarking is good throughout and the route is well set up for through-walkers and runners alike.

Helmsley to Saltburn (~100 km): The moorland section. Rievaulx Abbey, Sutton Bank (famous viewpoint), over the Cleveland Hills via Urra Moor and Roseberry Topping (320 m, prominent volcanic plug). The views west over the Vale of York are excellent throughout.

Saltburn to Filey (~75 km): The coastal section. Huntcliff, Staithes, Runswick Bay, Robin Hood's Bay (where the Coast to Coast finishes), Scarborough and the chalk cliffs of Filey Brigg.

Start: Helmsley market town. Bus connections from York and Thirsk. Car parking in the town square.

Finish: Filey seafront. Train station on the Hull–Scarborough line, with connections to York and beyond.

Accommodation at Osmotherley, Kildale, Saltburn, Staithes, Whitby and Scarborough. Whitby is the best overnight stop — excellent food, good accommodation range.

Best time: April to October. The coast path can be spectacular in winter but exposed.