- Walk the Coast to Coast track end to end with detailed walk notes for both the stunning high routes for good weather days and the easier low-level alternatives for those inclement weather days
- Picturesque country villages, farms and old churches with stunning stained-glass windows
- Stay in charming B&Bs or iconic country pubs, enjoy real local ales and real country hospitality.
- Walk through the Grasmere Valley which the poet Wordsworth famously called, ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’
- Fabulous fell walking in England’s glorious Lake District with the added security of our comprehensive walk notes so you won’t get lost
- Rolling green hills, drystone walls, and fluffy sheep in the Yorkshire Dales and lose yourself in the magical mists on the moors
- Walk to the summit of the Nine Standards Rigg with its enigmatic, drystone cairns
- Neolithic standing stones, medieval stone crosses & old estate boundary markers on the North York Moors
- Option to ride with your luggage rather than walk if the weather is not cooperating
- Benefit from walking with a company that has actually walked the track and has nearly 30 years of expertise in crafting walking notes and walking itineraries
- Hearty English home-cooked breakfasts (or lighter, healthier options if you prefer!) and all lunches bar one.
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
The Coast to Coast is an iconic long-distance walking route devised by the legendary British fell-walker and guidebook writer, Alfred Wainwright, in 1973. It traverses some of the finest ground in England as it takes you from the Irish Sea at St Bees to the North Sea at Robin Hood’s Bay – a distance of 192 miles (309 km). The walk takes you through 3 major national park areas – the famous Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors – with a preference for higher ground & the avoidance of urban areas where possible. Note that this is not an easy pub-to-pub walk, and will be more challenging than you might first anticipate (especially the first few days through the Lake District), but with a bit of preparation, the Coast to Coast walk is very achievable by most walkers. While it’s not the shortest way across northern England, nor the longest, it is most definitely one of the loveliest!
Highlights
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
19 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging 
Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging
Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.PRICE FROM
$ 3295
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 995
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
ITINERARY
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
Pack-free walking
-
25+ years experience
-
Customised
-
Eco Travel
- Walk the entire iconic Coast to Coast track, end to end, pack free
- Walk in 3 major national park areas – Lake District, Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors
- 18 nights accommodation in character-filled English B&Bs and pubs
- Excellent English home-cooked breakfast daily and walkers lunches (except for one day)
- Stunning high routes for good weather days and low-level routes for those bad weather days
- The glorious Lake District, Yorkshire dales and beautiful North York Moors
- Grasmere Valley, ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’ according to Wordsworth
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with our comprehensive track notes
- 24/7 support with our local partner network on the ground
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
A real highlight on this walk is staying in the traditional English Bed and Breakfast and pub accommodations along the way. Be prepared to be spoiled with a warm welcome each day from your hosts who in many cases own the accommodation, and subsequently provide a much more personable experience. Most of your hosts have intimate knowledge of the history of the Coast to Coast track, some of them have walked it numerous times. All the properties are clean and comfortable and offer all the local hospitality that the English are renowned for, including crisp clean local ale.
After a big day on the track enjoy a warm shower, a comfortable bed and cooked dinner (we’ve left this to you as there are many choices on offer). We do however include all the breakfasts and all the lunches (except for one).
All the accommodations listed below are our’ go to’ accommodations but on some occasions, we may have to swap out one accommodation for another of equal quality due to lack of availability.
Night 1: Stonehouse Farm (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This bed and breakfast is a large modernised Georgian farmhouse with a warm, friendly atmosphere. It is situated in the centre of the St Bees village; basically, turn right out of the train station and walk 50 metres, that’s how central it is. It is a 10 mins walk to the beach and a few more minutes to the 11th century Priory one of the finest buildings in Cumbria. The rooms have ensuites and are in character as is the rest of the building inside and out.
Night 2: Thorntrees Bed and Breakfast (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This B&B is located right on the Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk in the picturesque Village of Ennerdale. This is another small accommodation with only 6 rooms but lovely all the same. Well cared for and family-run and undoubtedly English. All the rooms have ensuites or private bathrooms.
Night 3: Glaramara Centre (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Glaramara Hotel is a privately owned hotel of 25 rooms managed and operated by an experienced and professional team. The location of the property is particularly striking with commanding views of the Borrowdale Fells. Of course, there is easy access to some of the best routes in the Lake District, including the Coast to Coast walk. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 4: Raise View Guesthouse (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Grasmere is a quaint and peaceful Lake District Village and also once home to Wordsworth who praised this area in poetry. Raise View is ideally located, in the heart of the town and boasts breathtaking views of the hills and the surrounding area. The garden at Raise View is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset over Helm Crag. The rooms are excellent and have ensuites.
Night 5: Oldwater View B & B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
A walkers inn, situated in the delightful village of Patterdale and at the heart of the Lake District National Park, located on the famous Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walking route. A favourite with Alfred Wainwright, there is a memorabilia board on display. Guests are automatically booked in for dinner in the restaurant. The staff are very friendly and ready to help you with all your requirements. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 6: Crown and Mitre (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The Crown & Mitre is located in Bampton Grange near Haweswater in Cumbria. This character-filled Inn is a historic free house nestled on the edge of the North Eastern Fells. There are several walks directly from the Inn that can be accessed at your leisure. There is an amazing amount of wildlife nearby including red squirrels in the churchyard opposite, red deer on the local fells nearby and if you are lucky the otters in the local river. All rooms have ensuites.
Night 7: The George Hotel (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The George is a traditional Inn set in the picturesque village of Orton, on the border of the Howgills and the Eden Valley. As a family-run business, you will always find a very warm welcome at any time of the year. With Kennedys Fine Chocolates located just across the road, you’ll be able to enjoy a cup of coffee and sample chocolate at the end of the day’s walk. All the rooms have ensuites.
OR
Primrose Cottage B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
A small family run B&B with 3 luxurious rooms. It is ideally positioned to access the Lake District, Yorkshire dales, Howgill hills and the Durham Dales. Located in Tebay, all Coast to Coast walkers will be collected and dropped off the following day to resume the walk. The rooms are well-appointed and have quality soft furnishings, bed linen and of course have ensuites.
Night 8: Bollam Cottage B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This is a small friendly family run “home away from home” B&B in Kirkby Stephen. Once a traditional toll cottage it now offers accommodation and all the warmth and charm of a bygone era. The property has the character and ambience one would expect from a period property with beams, flagged floors and beautifully crafted bespoke features. Walkers are warmly welcomed with refreshments on arrival served in the guest lounge with wood burning stove and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. All rooms have ensuites.
Night 9: Keld Lodge (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Keld Lodge Hotel was originally built as a shooting lodge in 1860. Keld Lodge has been open as a hotel and restaurant since 2007. Set in the magnificent moorland countryside of Gunnerside Estate, at the head of Swaledale, Keld Lodge sits at the crossroads of three renowned long-distance hikes. The Coast to Coast, The Pennine Way and The Herriot Way. So there are plenty of other walks to do if you are up for it. Keld is officially halfway along the Coast to Coast. All rooms have ensuites.
Night 10: Ivy Cottage B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The B&B is in an idyllic location overlooking the renowned Green in the heart of Reeth. The village itself is in the heart of The Yorkshire Dales National Park and on the famous Coast to Coast walk route. What better way to end a day’s walking than to relax in the tea room and enjoy homemade and locally sourced produce. The rooms are traditional and comfortable and have ensuites.
Night 11: Frenchgate Guesthouse (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Touted as having the best view in Richmond Frenchgate Guesthouse is a lovely place to rest and relax after your day on the Coast to Coast track. This is a homely guesthouse, each room has been specially decorated in a plush period and cosy atmosphere, perfect for ensuring a restful and relaxing night’s sleep. The breakfast conservatory boasts impressive panoramic views over Richmond Castle, Easby Abbey and the River Swale. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 12: White Swan Inn (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The White Swan Inn was originally built around the 17th century. This traditional village inn lies directly on Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk and marks 66 miles left to Robin Hood’s Bay. The Inn was voted North West Yorkshire CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2012 and featured in the Good Beer Guide 2013 and offers a comprehensive selection of local real ales, a real cider and pub meals. They have up to 5 real ales during the walking season, a great place for beer lovers. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 13: Ingleby House Farm B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Another warm welcome awaits you at Ingleby House Farm. The B&B is located in the quiet rural village of Ingleby Arncliffe nestling at the North-Western edge of the North York Moors only 300 yards from Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk track. Guests enjoy a traditional cream tea on arrival and all the normal comforts are available. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 14: Wainstones Hotel (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This is a gorgeous English building and an excellent place to relax in-house after your walk on the Coast to Coast track. Named after an outcrop of rocks on the hills, overlooking the picturesque village of Great Broughton, the Wainstones Hotel has gained an enviable reputation for quality and comfort. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 15: Lion Inn (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The Lion Inn on remote Blakey Ridge is a 16th Century freehouse owned and run
by the Crossland family since 1980. Located at the highest point of the North York Moors National Park, it stands at an elevation of 400 metres offering breathtaking views over the valleys of Rosedale and Farndale. The original low beamed ceilings add to the friendly atmosphere and with open fires burning all day in the ancient fireplaces you’re sure to be warm on arrival. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 16: Beggars Bridge B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The B&B is situated on Wainwright’s famous coast to coast walk, overlooking the romantic Beggars Bridge in the attractive village of Glaisdale. The location in the North York Moors National Park is ideal for walkers. The conservatory, where a full English breakfast is served, overlooks the pretty garden that leads down to Beggars Bridge and the River Esk.
All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 17: Intake Farm (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Located almost by itself in a little hamlet of Littlebeck in the stunning North Yorkshire Moors National Park. This is as remote as it gets accommodation wise on the walk. Wainright explains as follows “then follows a descent to this tiny hamlet, set in a secluded and sheltered valley amid scenery of bewitching beauty; a heaven on earth in exquisite miniature. Here a path is taken amongst the trees, with the sparkling stream as a companion to the higher reaches of the valley.” Say no more, of course, all the rooms have ensuites and it is small and books out quickly.
Night 18: The Villa B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The Victorian Villa was built in 1892 as a lodging house, the first of its kind, at the top of Bay Bank, Robin Hood’s Bay. The property has been lovingly restored retaining all its original features, servant bells, original cast iron fireplaces in the bedrooms and a cast-iron range in the kitchen among other things. There’s central heating and en-suite rooms have been tastefully incorporated into the Villa. It’s also very close to the sea and a good place to take a stroll from, on the beach or through the town.
GENERAL INFO
WHY CHOOSE AUSWALK FOR THE COAST TO COAST
For starters, we’ve actually walked the track and take the time to curate what we actually offer. The Coast to Coast follows clear walking tracks throughout but there are lots of tracks going in all directions. In areas like the Lakes District National Park, walking tracks are not signposted at all, it is apparently against their “ethos”. Not to worry, our very comprehensive day-by-day walking notes that we’ve created, together with our marked copy of a detailed walking map, will ensure that you can walk the Coast to Coast with full confidence, and no fear of becoming lost, even when it is foggy and misty.
AVAILABILITY OF THE COAST TO COAST WALK
The walk is available from March to October. Outside that time please check with us.
August is one of the best months in which to walk the Coast to Coast. The weather is often relatively stable, the heather is in flower, and it is often less busy at this time than one might expect! However, we also recommend spring and autumn as the best time to walk the Coast to Coast track as the weather is pretty good for walking and if you choose spring the heather is in flower!
HOW TO GET THERE AND GET AWAY
- Travelling to the Start of the walk
We offer this walk from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay, from west to east so the walk starts in St Bees. The closest airports to the St Bees are listed below; then it’s a 4-hour train ride from there. Of course London is the most popular entry route into the UK. You can catch a train which takes 5 to 6 hours from Euston Station central London northwards to St Bees (via Carlisle).
To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.
By Air: The easiest option would be to fly into the UK, any of the major cities will suffice as the UK’s excellent train network will ferry you to St Bees. The main UK airports for international flights are: Heathrow Airport www.heathrowairport.com, Gatwick Airport www.gatwickairport.com, Manchester Airport www.manchesterairport.co.uk.
The nearest airports to St Bees are: Durham-Tees Valley Airport www.dtva.co.uk, Leeds Bradford Airport www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk, Newcastle Airport www.newcastleairport.com
By Ferry: International ferry services run to UK ports from France, the Republic of Ireland, Spain, Belgium, Scandinavia and the Netherlands. There are also local ferry services that run from the Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and the Scottish Isles. Visit www.aferry.co.uk/ferryports.htm
By Rail: The easiest way to get to the start of the track from London is by train. St Bees has good train services. For easy train bookings in the UK (and beyond), we recommend using the LOCO2 website https://loco2.com/en. They have an excellent smartphone APP too. Just enter your station of origin, your destination, date of travel etc, and options will be presented (times, fares etc). You can pay online. Electronic tickets or ticket pick up at the station (from a dispenser machine). Trains from London connect with the Cumbrian Coast Line (Northern Rail) which services St Bees. There are several trains daily. Trains to St Bees from London will take approx. 5 hr, with 1 or 2 changes required.
If you would prefer not to change trains, consider going direct from London to Penrith and spend the night there before continuing to St Bees by private transfer.
By Coach: National Express Coaches link most major towns and cities in the UK. For details of departure times and to book tickets call 0871 781 8181 (or +44 (0) 871 781 8181 from overseas) or visit https://beta.nationalexpress.com/.
By Bus: Various buses run to St Bees from nearby towns. Please visit http://www.traveline.info/ for up to date bus journey schedules.
By Road: If you have your own vehicle and are thinking of driving up to the walk then there is a free unrestricted car park at the north end of town and unrestricted parking in most side streets. Sometimes our accommodations have parking available at a small fee per night. If this appeals to you, please contact the Auswalk office about this as soon as possible. For advice on driving to St Bees, please visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner.
- Travelling from the End of the walk
By Air: The nearest airports to Robin Hood’s Bay are: Durham-Tees Valley Airport www.dtva.co.uk, Leeds Bradford Airport www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk, Newcastle Airport www.newcastleairport.com
By Rail: The nearest train station is north of Robin Hood’s Bay at Whitby (10 km away) or Scarborough (32 km away). For easy train bookings in the UK (and beyond), we recommend using the LOCO2 website https://loco2.com/en.
By Coach: National Express Coaches link most major towns and cities in the UK. For details of departure times and to book tickets call 0871 781 8181 (or +44(0) 871 781 8181 from overseas) or visit https://beta.nationalexpress.com/.
By Bus: You can get a bus from Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby train station which takes about 20 min (Arriva Bus Services) – route X93 or Scarborough train station which takes about 35 min. There are several buses a day. See http://getdown.org.uk/bus/bus/x93.shtml for the schedule.
By Taxi: Several local Robin Hood’s Bay taxi companies offer good deals for small groups to Whitby. Ask your accommodation for current contact details. Whitby and Scarborough’s stations are served by a taxi rank or a cab office. Check availability before travelling, and pre-book if necessary. For further information visit www.taxinumber.com
By Road: For advice on driving from Robin Hood’s Bay, visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner.
- Returning to the Start of the Trail:
To return to the start of the walk, from Robin Hood’s Bay you will need to take a bus (Arriva Bus X93) to Whitby and from here take a train to St Bees (approx. 6.5 – 7.5 hrs). Please note that there are different options for this journey, depending on the date and time you wish to travel. We recommend visiting the LOCO2 website https://loco2.com/en.
WALKING
19 days is the recommended minimum amount of time in which to do this walk. This means no days are longer than 25 km, or much shorter than 15 km. We can also adjust this schedule to include rest days or, you could walk the Western Half to Kirkby Stephen, or the Eastern Half from Kirkby Stephen to Robin Hood’s Bay as another option.
The track conditions range, but all of the walk is passable, no scrambling required. There is some incline but we’re not talking about anything significant. The United Kingdom is prone to having rain, no surprise there, so there may be some boggy sections but this entirely depends on the time of year and the prevailing conditions. Our advice is to prepare and bring the right gear and you’ll have a fabulous walk. See gear advice in FAQ’s
WEATHER ON THE COAST TO COAST WALK
This walk is not available from November to February. See the United Kingdom Met office or the United Kingdom Meteorological Service for information about the weather and average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance for all of our trips. We require that you purchase a travel insurance policy for all travel overseas, as we charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it. It is also important in the event of an accident or loss of property. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
MAP
SIMILAR TRIPS
Cape-to-Cape In-Style Highlights
Self-guided
Hike the most beautiful sections of the Cape to Cape Track in the Margaret River region. Walk spectacular coastline, clifftops, rocky coves and idyllic bays.
Cape-to-Cape In-Style Highlights
BACK What's Included- 5 nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Bunker Bay, Caves House or Seashells and in Gnarabup and Margaret River in rooms with ensuites
- Minimum of wasted time in vehicles being transferred
- Private transfers from Margaret River and luggage transport so you can walk pack free
- Chef-prepared cooked breakfasts, two-course a la carte dinners and substantial Walkers Lunches
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack and national park admission
- 24/7 support from our driver and representatives on the ground
Abel Tasman Walk End to End
Self-guided
Abel Tasman Great walk end to end. Stunning views over golden beaches, estuaries, coves & native forest. Unparalleled opportunities to swim.
Abel Tasman Walk End to End
BACK What's Included- Full access to the Abel Tasman National Park and its beauty
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodges including 4-star Awaroa lodge
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free
- A la carte meals at Awaroa Lodge including 2-course dinners
- 5 breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches and 3 dinners
- Comprehensive track notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
- Enjoy the 26 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
Great Ocean Walk Highlights
Self-guided
Experience all the highlights of the iconic track from Cape Otway Lighthouse to 12 Apostles. Walk along remote Wreck & Johanna Beaches, plus a private tour of Loch Ard Gorge.
Great Ocean Walk Highlights
BACK What's Included- Five day pack free walking holiday
- The highlights of the Great Ocean Walk
- Four nights’ accommodation with ensuites
- Cooked breakfasts, two-course a la carte dinners (most nights) and substantial walkers lunches
- Luggage transport and vehicle transfers
- We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating much more time to relax and enjoy the region
- National Park admission
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
- 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground
Classic Tour du Mont Blanc by Hotels
Self-guided
The perfect TMB trip for walkers that prefer a little extra comfort. Trek Tour du Mont Blanc by day, relax in comfortable hotels, in the heart of alpine villages in the evening.
Classic Tour du Mont Blanc by Hotels
BACK What's Included- Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
- 11 nights accommodation in 3* hotels, simple hotels and/or mountain refuges
- 11 breakfasts and 6 dinners
- Maps, guidebook, GPX tracks and daily route summary
- 24/7 telephone support
- Itineraries can please flexible to account for weather conditions
- Rest days can be added if you would like to further explore the region
- Enjoy worry free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive tack notes and maps
Overview
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
The Coast to Coast is an iconic long-distance walking route devised by the legendary British fell-walker and guidebook writer, Alfred Wainwright, in 1973. It traverses some of the finest ground in England as it takes you from the Irish Sea at St Bees to the North Sea at Robin Hood’s Bay – a distance of 192 miles (309 km). The walk takes you through 3 major national park areas – the famous Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors – with a preference for higher ground & the avoidance of urban areas where possible. Note that this is not an easy pub-to-pub walk, and will be more challenging than you might first anticipate (especially the first few days through the Lake District), but with a bit of preparation, the Coast to Coast walk is very achievable by most walkers. While it’s not the shortest way across northern England, nor the longest, it is most definitely one of the loveliest!
Highlights
- Walk the Coast to Coast track end to end with detailed walk notes for both the stunning high routes for good weather days and the easier low-level alternatives for those inclement weather days
- Picturesque country villages, farms and old churches with stunning stained-glass windows
- Stay in charming B&Bs or iconic country pubs, enjoy real local ales and real country hospitality.
- Walk through the Grasmere Valley which the poet Wordsworth famously called, ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’
- Fabulous fell walking in England’s glorious Lake District with the added security of our comprehensive walk notes so you won’t get lost
- Rolling green hills, drystone walls, and fluffy sheep in the Yorkshire Dales and lose yourself in the magical mists on the moors
- Walk to the summit of the Nine Standards Rigg with its enigmatic, drystone cairns
- Neolithic standing stones, medieval stone crosses & old estate boundary markers on the North York Moors
- Option to ride with your luggage rather than walk if the weather is not cooperating
- Benefit from walking with a company that has actually walked the track and has nearly 30 years of expertise in crafting walking notes and walking itineraries
- Hearty English home-cooked breakfasts (or lighter, healthier options if you prefer!) and all lunches bar one.
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
19 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging
Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging
Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.PRICE FROM
$ 3295
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 995
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
Itinerary
ITINERARY
What’s Included
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
Pack-free walking
-
25+ years experience
-
Customised
-
Eco Travel
- Walk the entire iconic Coast to Coast track, end to end, pack free
- Walk in 3 major national park areas – Lake District, Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors
- 18 nights accommodation in character-filled English B&Bs and pubs
- Excellent English home-cooked breakfast daily and walkers lunches (except for one day)
- Stunning high routes for good weather days and low-level routes for those bad weather days
- The glorious Lake District, Yorkshire dales and beautiful North York Moors
- Grasmere Valley, ‘the loveliest spot that man hath found’ according to Wordsworth
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with our comprehensive track notes
- 24/7 support with our local partner network on the ground
Accommodation & Dining
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
A real highlight on this walk is staying in the traditional English Bed and Breakfast and pub accommodations along the way. Be prepared to be spoiled with a warm welcome each day from your hosts who in many cases own the accommodation, and subsequently provide a much more personable experience. Most of your hosts have intimate knowledge of the history of the Coast to Coast track, some of them have walked it numerous times. All the properties are clean and comfortable and offer all the local hospitality that the English are renowned for, including crisp clean local ale.
After a big day on the track enjoy a warm shower, a comfortable bed and cooked dinner (we’ve left this to you as there are many choices on offer). We do however include all the breakfasts and all the lunches (except for one).
All the accommodations listed below are our’ go to’ accommodations but on some occasions, we may have to swap out one accommodation for another of equal quality due to lack of availability.
Night 1: Stonehouse Farm (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This bed and breakfast is a large modernised Georgian farmhouse with a warm, friendly atmosphere. It is situated in the centre of the St Bees village; basically, turn right out of the train station and walk 50 metres, that’s how central it is. It is a 10 mins walk to the beach and a few more minutes to the 11th century Priory one of the finest buildings in Cumbria. The rooms have ensuites and are in character as is the rest of the building inside and out.
Night 2: Thorntrees Bed and Breakfast (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This B&B is located right on the Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk in the picturesque Village of Ennerdale. This is another small accommodation with only 6 rooms but lovely all the same. Well cared for and family-run and undoubtedly English. All the rooms have ensuites or private bathrooms.
Night 3: Glaramara Centre (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Glaramara Hotel is a privately owned hotel of 25 rooms managed and operated by an experienced and professional team. The location of the property is particularly striking with commanding views of the Borrowdale Fells. Of course, there is easy access to some of the best routes in the Lake District, including the Coast to Coast walk. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 4: Raise View Guesthouse (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Grasmere is a quaint and peaceful Lake District Village and also once home to Wordsworth who praised this area in poetry. Raise View is ideally located, in the heart of the town and boasts breathtaking views of the hills and the surrounding area. The garden at Raise View is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset over Helm Crag. The rooms are excellent and have ensuites.
Night 5: Oldwater View B & B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
A walkers inn, situated in the delightful village of Patterdale and at the heart of the Lake District National Park, located on the famous Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walking route. A favourite with Alfred Wainwright, there is a memorabilia board on display. Guests are automatically booked in for dinner in the restaurant. The staff are very friendly and ready to help you with all your requirements. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 6: Crown and Mitre (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The Crown & Mitre is located in Bampton Grange near Haweswater in Cumbria. This character-filled Inn is a historic free house nestled on the edge of the North Eastern Fells. There are several walks directly from the Inn that can be accessed at your leisure. There is an amazing amount of wildlife nearby including red squirrels in the churchyard opposite, red deer on the local fells nearby and if you are lucky the otters in the local river. All rooms have ensuites.
Night 7: The George Hotel (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The George is a traditional Inn set in the picturesque village of Orton, on the border of the Howgills and the Eden Valley. As a family-run business, you will always find a very warm welcome at any time of the year. With Kennedys Fine Chocolates located just across the road, you’ll be able to enjoy a cup of coffee and sample chocolate at the end of the day’s walk. All the rooms have ensuites.
OR
Primrose Cottage B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
A small family run B&B with 3 luxurious rooms. It is ideally positioned to access the Lake District, Yorkshire dales, Howgill hills and the Durham Dales. Located in Tebay, all Coast to Coast walkers will be collected and dropped off the following day to resume the walk. The rooms are well-appointed and have quality soft furnishings, bed linen and of course have ensuites.
Night 8: Bollam Cottage B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This is a small friendly family run “home away from home” B&B in Kirkby Stephen. Once a traditional toll cottage it now offers accommodation and all the warmth and charm of a bygone era. The property has the character and ambience one would expect from a period property with beams, flagged floors and beautifully crafted bespoke features. Walkers are warmly welcomed with refreshments on arrival served in the guest lounge with wood burning stove and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. All rooms have ensuites.
Night 9: Keld Lodge (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Keld Lodge Hotel was originally built as a shooting lodge in 1860. Keld Lodge has been open as a hotel and restaurant since 2007. Set in the magnificent moorland countryside of Gunnerside Estate, at the head of Swaledale, Keld Lodge sits at the crossroads of three renowned long-distance hikes. The Coast to Coast, The Pennine Way and The Herriot Way. So there are plenty of other walks to do if you are up for it. Keld is officially halfway along the Coast to Coast. All rooms have ensuites.
Night 10: Ivy Cottage B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The B&B is in an idyllic location overlooking the renowned Green in the heart of Reeth. The village itself is in the heart of The Yorkshire Dales National Park and on the famous Coast to Coast walk route. What better way to end a day’s walking than to relax in the tea room and enjoy homemade and locally sourced produce. The rooms are traditional and comfortable and have ensuites.
Night 11: Frenchgate Guesthouse (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Touted as having the best view in Richmond Frenchgate Guesthouse is a lovely place to rest and relax after your day on the Coast to Coast track. This is a homely guesthouse, each room has been specially decorated in a plush period and cosy atmosphere, perfect for ensuring a restful and relaxing night’s sleep. The breakfast conservatory boasts impressive panoramic views over Richmond Castle, Easby Abbey and the River Swale. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 12: White Swan Inn (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The White Swan Inn was originally built around the 17th century. This traditional village inn lies directly on Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk and marks 66 miles left to Robin Hood’s Bay. The Inn was voted North West Yorkshire CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2012 and featured in the Good Beer Guide 2013 and offers a comprehensive selection of local real ales, a real cider and pub meals. They have up to 5 real ales during the walking season, a great place for beer lovers. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 13: Ingleby House Farm B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Another warm welcome awaits you at Ingleby House Farm. The B&B is located in the quiet rural village of Ingleby Arncliffe nestling at the North-Western edge of the North York Moors only 300 yards from Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk track. Guests enjoy a traditional cream tea on arrival and all the normal comforts are available. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 14: Wainstones Hotel (or in an equivalent accommodation)
This is a gorgeous English building and an excellent place to relax in-house after your walk on the Coast to Coast track. Named after an outcrop of rocks on the hills, overlooking the picturesque village of Great Broughton, the Wainstones Hotel has gained an enviable reputation for quality and comfort. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 15: Lion Inn (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The Lion Inn on remote Blakey Ridge is a 16th Century freehouse owned and run
by the Crossland family since 1980. Located at the highest point of the North York Moors National Park, it stands at an elevation of 400 metres offering breathtaking views over the valleys of Rosedale and Farndale. The original low beamed ceilings add to the friendly atmosphere and with open fires burning all day in the ancient fireplaces you’re sure to be warm on arrival. All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 16: Beggars Bridge B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The B&B is situated on Wainwright’s famous coast to coast walk, overlooking the romantic Beggars Bridge in the attractive village of Glaisdale. The location in the North York Moors National Park is ideal for walkers. The conservatory, where a full English breakfast is served, overlooks the pretty garden that leads down to Beggars Bridge and the River Esk.
All the rooms have ensuites.
Night 17: Intake Farm (or in an equivalent accommodation)
Located almost by itself in a little hamlet of Littlebeck in the stunning North Yorkshire Moors National Park. This is as remote as it gets accommodation wise on the walk. Wainright explains as follows “then follows a descent to this tiny hamlet, set in a secluded and sheltered valley amid scenery of bewitching beauty; a heaven on earth in exquisite miniature. Here a path is taken amongst the trees, with the sparkling stream as a companion to the higher reaches of the valley.” Say no more, of course, all the rooms have ensuites and it is small and books out quickly.
Night 18: The Villa B&B (or in an equivalent accommodation)
The Victorian Villa was built in 1892 as a lodging house, the first of its kind, at the top of Bay Bank, Robin Hood’s Bay. The property has been lovingly restored retaining all its original features, servant bells, original cast iron fireplaces in the bedrooms and a cast-iron range in the kitchen among other things. There’s central heating and en-suite rooms have been tastefully incorporated into the Villa. It’s also very close to the sea and a good place to take a stroll from, on the beach or through the town.
General Info
GENERAL INFO
WHY CHOOSE AUSWALK FOR THE COAST TO COAST
For starters, we’ve actually walked the track and take the time to curate what we actually offer. The Coast to Coast follows clear walking tracks throughout but there are lots of tracks going in all directions. In areas like the Lakes District National Park, walking tracks are not signposted at all, it is apparently against their “ethos”. Not to worry, our very comprehensive day-by-day walking notes that we’ve created, together with our marked copy of a detailed walking map, will ensure that you can walk the Coast to Coast with full confidence, and no fear of becoming lost, even when it is foggy and misty.
AVAILABILITY OF THE COAST TO COAST WALK
The walk is available from March to October. Outside that time please check with us.
August is one of the best months in which to walk the Coast to Coast. The weather is often relatively stable, the heather is in flower, and it is often less busy at this time than one might expect! However, we also recommend spring and autumn as the best time to walk the Coast to Coast track as the weather is pretty good for walking and if you choose spring the heather is in flower!
HOW TO GET THERE AND GET AWAY
- Travelling to the Start of the walk
We offer this walk from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay, from west to east so the walk starts in St Bees. The closest airports to the St Bees are listed below; then it’s a 4-hour train ride from there. Of course London is the most popular entry route into the UK. You can catch a train which takes 5 to 6 hours from Euston Station central London northwards to St Bees (via Carlisle).
To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.
By Air: The easiest option would be to fly into the UK, any of the major cities will suffice as the UK’s excellent train network will ferry you to St Bees. The main UK airports for international flights are: Heathrow Airport www.heathrowairport.com, Gatwick Airport www.gatwickairport.com, Manchester Airport www.manchesterairport.co.uk.
The nearest airports to St Bees are: Durham-Tees Valley Airport www.dtva.co.uk, Leeds Bradford Airport www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk, Newcastle Airport www.newcastleairport.com
By Ferry: International ferry services run to UK ports from France, the Republic of Ireland, Spain, Belgium, Scandinavia and the Netherlands. There are also local ferry services that run from the Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and the Scottish Isles. Visit www.aferry.co.uk/ferryports.htm
By Rail: The easiest way to get to the start of the track from London is by train. St Bees has good train services. For easy train bookings in the UK (and beyond), we recommend using the LOCO2 website https://loco2.com/en. They have an excellent smartphone APP too. Just enter your station of origin, your destination, date of travel etc, and options will be presented (times, fares etc). You can pay online. Electronic tickets or ticket pick up at the station (from a dispenser machine). Trains from London connect with the Cumbrian Coast Line (Northern Rail) which services St Bees. There are several trains daily. Trains to St Bees from London will take approx. 5 hr, with 1 or 2 changes required.
If you would prefer not to change trains, consider going direct from London to Penrith and spend the night there before continuing to St Bees by private transfer.
By Coach: National Express Coaches link most major towns and cities in the UK. For details of departure times and to book tickets call 0871 781 8181 (or +44 (0) 871 781 8181 from overseas) or visit https://beta.nationalexpress.com/.
By Bus: Various buses run to St Bees from nearby towns. Please visit http://www.traveline.info/ for up to date bus journey schedules.
By Road: If you have your own vehicle and are thinking of driving up to the walk then there is a free unrestricted car park at the north end of town and unrestricted parking in most side streets. Sometimes our accommodations have parking available at a small fee per night. If this appeals to you, please contact the Auswalk office about this as soon as possible. For advice on driving to St Bees, please visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner.
- Travelling from the End of the walk
By Air: The nearest airports to Robin Hood’s Bay are: Durham-Tees Valley Airport www.dtva.co.uk, Leeds Bradford Airport www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk, Newcastle Airport www.newcastleairport.com
By Rail: The nearest train station is north of Robin Hood’s Bay at Whitby (10 km away) or Scarborough (32 km away). For easy train bookings in the UK (and beyond), we recommend using the LOCO2 website https://loco2.com/en.
By Coach: National Express Coaches link most major towns and cities in the UK. For details of departure times and to book tickets call 0871 781 8181 (or +44(0) 871 781 8181 from overseas) or visit https://beta.nationalexpress.com/.
By Bus: You can get a bus from Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby train station which takes about 20 min (Arriva Bus Services) – route X93 or Scarborough train station which takes about 35 min. There are several buses a day. See http://getdown.org.uk/bus/bus/x93.shtml for the schedule.
By Taxi: Several local Robin Hood’s Bay taxi companies offer good deals for small groups to Whitby. Ask your accommodation for current contact details. Whitby and Scarborough’s stations are served by a taxi rank or a cab office. Check availability before travelling, and pre-book if necessary. For further information visit www.taxinumber.com
By Road: For advice on driving from Robin Hood’s Bay, visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner.
- Returning to the Start of the Trail:
To return to the start of the walk, from Robin Hood’s Bay you will need to take a bus (Arriva Bus X93) to Whitby and from here take a train to St Bees (approx. 6.5 – 7.5 hrs). Please note that there are different options for this journey, depending on the date and time you wish to travel. We recommend visiting the LOCO2 website https://loco2.com/en.
WALKING
19 days is the recommended minimum amount of time in which to do this walk. This means no days are longer than 25 km, or much shorter than 15 km. We can also adjust this schedule to include rest days or, you could walk the Western Half to Kirkby Stephen, or the Eastern Half from Kirkby Stephen to Robin Hood’s Bay as another option.
The track conditions range, but all of the walk is passable, no scrambling required. There is some incline but we’re not talking about anything significant. The United Kingdom is prone to having rain, no surprise there, so there may be some boggy sections but this entirely depends on the time of year and the prevailing conditions. Our advice is to prepare and bring the right gear and you’ll have a fabulous walk. See gear advice in FAQ’s
WEATHER ON THE COAST TO COAST WALK
This walk is not available from November to February. See the United Kingdom Met office or the United Kingdom Meteorological Service for information about the weather and average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance for all of our trips. We require that you purchase a travel insurance policy for all travel overseas, as we charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it. It is also important in the event of an accident or loss of property. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
Map
MAP
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ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.