Coast to Coast Walk

Route overview

The Coast to Coast Walk was devised by the fell walker and author Alfred Wainwright and first described in his 1973 guidebook. The route runs approximately 300 kilometres from St Bees on the Cumbrian coast to Robin Hood's Bay on the North Yorkshire coast, crossing three of England's finest national parks. The western section crosses the Lake District, taking in high fells, deep valleys and lakeshore paths. The middle section crosses the Yorkshire Dales with its limestone scenery, drystone walls and traditional farming villages. The final third crosses the heather moorland of the North York Moors, finishing on the North Sea coast at the village of Robin Hood's Bay. The route is not an official National Trail but is among the most popular long-distance walks in Britain. It is well waymarked and served by a network of accommodation. The high-level alternatives in the Lakes add significant extra climbing and should be chosen based on weather and experience.

A celebrated cross-country route devised by Alfred Wainwright, crossing the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors from the Irish Sea to the North Sea.

Trail facts

Country

England

Region

Northern England

Distance

c. 300 km

Typical duration

12–14 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

c. 10,000 m cumulative

Best season

April–September

Trail type

Point-to-point

Safety context

Lake District sections involve high exposed fells where weather can change rapidly. Compass and map skills are essential if choosing high-level alternatives. River crossings after rain require care.

The route is not an official National Trail, so waymarking varies. Some road walking connects moorland and fell sections. Booking accommodation in advance is strongly recommended in peak season.

Highlights

St Bees head and red sandstone cliffs Ennerdale Water Honister Pass Shap Fells crossing Swaledale and Yorkshire Dales limestone North York Moors heather moorland Robin Hood's Bay coastal finish

Why find a buddy

The Coast to Coast is a social trail by tradition — a partner shares the challenge of the Lake District fells and the reward of the North Sea finish.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

Explore and prepare

Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.