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 309 km. The walk takes you through 3 major national park areas – the famous Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors.

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 and immensely rewarding for most. While it's not the shortest way across northern England, nor the longest, it is most definitely one of the loveliest!

Highlights

  • 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 country hospitality
  • Fabulous fell walking in the glorious Lake District
  • Rolling green hills, drystone walls, and fluffy sheep in the Yorkshire Dales
  • Walk to the summit of the Nine Standards Rigg with its enigmatic, drystone cairns (rock piles)
  • Stone Age standing stones, medieval stone crosses & old estate boundary markers on the North York Moors

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
$ 3955

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1295

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9
  • Day 10
  • Day 11
  • Day 12
  • Day 13
  • Day 14
  • Day 15
  • Day 16
  • Day 17
  • Day 18
  • Day 19

DAY 1
Getting to St Bees

Arrive at St Bees at your own leisure and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a stroll on the beach or explore the lighthouse and the Priory founded in 1020AD. Or simply take the opportunity to wander around the very pleasant township and relax in one of the many pubs in preparation for the first day’s walk.

Accommodation: St Bees in an ensuite room

DAY 2
St Bees to Ennerdale Bridge

Starting out along the cliffs at St Bees (great views of nesting seabird colonies in spring and early summer), the walk takes you through the agricultural landscapes around the villages of Moor Row and Cleator, before the ascent of Dent Fell Hill (353 m) for some grand views of the coast now behind you. Descend to the beautiful gorge of Nannycatch Gate and continue easily to Ennerdale Bridge Village.

Walks: Moderate to challenging / 23 km / 8 hrs
Ascent: 1105 m / Descent: 1005 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Ennerdale Bridge in an ensuite room

DAY 3
Ennerdale Bridge to the Borrowdale Valley

Today we enter the Lake District National Park, starting with a delightful walk along the southern shores of Ennerdale Water. A long forest road leads through conifer plantations to the famous Black Sail Hut. This is a nice spot to pause for lunch and marvel at the fantastic glacier-carved valleys all around. A steep climb along the line of Loft Beck takes you to a high saddle with extensive vistas that feature many famous peaks and lakes in the area. The old Moses Trod path then brings you to the Honnister Slate mines where we meet the winding road down to the Borrowdale Valley and today’s destination.

Walks: Moderate to challenging / 23 km / 8 hrs
Ascent: 715 m / Descent: 730 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Borrowdale Valley in an ensuite room

DAY 4
Borrowdale Valley to Grasmere

A gentle start through Stonethwaite Valley following the beck of the same name. Eagle Crag looming up on the far side of the valley. The gradient increases for the push to the rocky outcrop of Lining Crag. You’ll definitely deserve a break here to catch your breath and take in the views of Scafell Pike (England’s highest peak at 978 m) and more. Easier gradients follow to Greenup Edge and on, to the head of the Far Easedale Valley. From here, take either the good weather High Route over Calf and Helm Crags (add 1 hr but no additional climbing), or continue down towards Grasmere following the line of Far Easedale Beck. Grasmere was home to the poet Wordsworth for many years. He described this valley as, “the fairest place on earth”.

There are many things to see here, including Wordsworth’s famous Dove Cottage, now a museum. Perhaps consider a day off to spend some time in Grasmere. It’s well worth it!

Walks: Moderate / 15 km / 5 ½ hrs
Ascent: 622 m / Descent: 672 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Grassmere in an ensuite room

DAY 5
Grasmere to Patterdale - Glenridding

Both options today take you up the delightful valley of Tongue Gill to Grisedale Hause. From here, either continue down Grisedale Valley to Patterdale-Glenridding following the line of the beck that drains the tarn, or, in good weather, you may consider the high ridge walk via Saint Sunday Crag.

Patterdale-Glenridding is also a good option for a rest day, especially if you are keen to climb Helvellyn via the Classic Route, going up via Striding Edge and descending again via Swirral Edge.

This day offers two options – a low & high route

The direct (low) route via Grisedale Valley
Walks: Moderate / 14 km / 4 hrs
Ascent: 580 m / Descent: 490 m

The high route via Saint Sunday Crag
Walks: Moderate to challenging / 14 km / 5 hrs
Ascent: 850 m / Descent: 760 m

Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Patterdale – Glenridding in an ensuite room

DAY 6
Patterdale to Shap

A demanding leave-taking of the Lake District via Angle Tarn and Kidsty Pike (784 m), the Coast to Coast’s highest point. A steep descent from the high plateau via Kidsty Howes takes you towards Haweswater. The walk continues ‘undulating’ across the slopes above the lake to Burnbanks village. From there, continue along country lanes and paths past the ruins of the historic Shap Abbey to your accommodation for the night in the town of Shap. 

This day offers two options – a low & high route. This overview is for the high route via Kidsty Pike

Walks: Moderate to challenging / 25 km / 6.5 – 9 hrs
Ascent: 925 m / Descent: 813 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Haweswater or Shap in an ensuite room

DAY 7
Shap to Orton

Today is a shorter easier walk to allow you to recover after the challenges of yesterday. Starting in the village of Shap, cross the busy M6 via a pedestrian footbridge and walk the mystic moors through one of England’s “Empty Quarters”. The ancient stone circles and burial mounds here are evidence of a time when this area was far more densely settled.

Walks: Moderate / 12.5 km / 2.5-3.5 hrs
Ascent: 193 m / Descent: 216 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Tebay in an ensuite room

DAY 8
Orton to Kirkby Stephen

The onward route crosses the base of an upland area of limestone (the Orton Scar) before continuing over the moors towards Sunbiggin Tarn. In spring, this area is dotted with limestone-loving wildflowers, and the skies are filled with birdsong. These wild, windswept moors were also once home to thriving communities as attested by the Severals village complex (not excavated) and enigmatic “pillow mounds” near Smardale Bridge. A gentle climb up and over the fells brings you to the old market town of Kirkby Stephen. Granted a market charter in 1351, this vibrant town boasts numerous cafes, restaurants, pubs, and even a few outdoor gear stores!

Walks: Moderate / 20 km / 5-6 hrs
Ascent: 335 m / Descent: 395 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Kirkby Stephen in an ensuite room

DAY 9
Kirkby Stephen to Keld

This is a real red-letter day in which you cross that backbone of the British Isles known as the Pennines. In doing so, you also cross an important division of watersheds. From here, all rivers flow east to drain into the North Sea. It’s downhill all the way from here then? Unfortunately not! In clear weather, ascend on country lanes then boggy tracks to the summit of the Nine Standards Rigg (ridge) which features a series of large drystone cairns thought to be at least 800 years old. Beyond this lies a notorious area of peat hags (bogs) that might easily trap the unwary walker in wet years. Happily, the paths here are finally being reinforced with flagstones. In poor weather, an easy lower-level route is the better option.

Walks: Moderate / 18 km / 5-7 hrs
Ascent: 640m / Descent: 470m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Keld in an ensuite room

DAY 10
Keld to Reeth

The high route via the moors & old industrial ruins

A hill walk over the moors via an evocative landscape dotted with ruins of former mining activities.  Mining reached its peak here in the late 18th and early 19th century, employing thousands of people. Most of the remains encountered today, such as ruined smelt mills, chimneys, flues, old mine shafts, spoil heaps, and modified watercourses, date from this time. The industry collapsed towards the end of the 19th century.

The alternative low route via the Swale River

Sometimes described as the “Royal Road to Reeth”, this low-level route features a cornucopia of riverside loveliness. In spring and early summer, the meadows are lush with wildflowers. If the clouds are low over the hills, this is definitely the path to take.

This day offers two options – a low & high route

The high route via the moors & old industrial ruins
Walks: Moderate / 18 km / 5-6 hrs
Ascent: 640 m / Descent: 775 m

The alternative low route via the Swale River
Walks: Moderate / 19 km / 4-5 hrs
Ascent: 260 m / Descent: 395 m

Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Reeth in an ensuite room

DAY 11
Reeth to Richmond

An easy section, but one abundantly endowed with variety and beauty. Broadly following the line of the Swale River, today’s walk features pastures, meadowlands, woodlands, and country lanes. Taking you past the old priory at Marrick (now an outdoor adventure centre), through the small village of Marske with its lovely old church, and Whitcliffe Wood, to Richmond. Historic Richmond, dominated by the ruins of its famous old castle (dating from 1071), is the largest town on the C2C. Richmond is well worth exploring and would be a good place for a rest day.

Walks: Easy to Moderate / 17 km / 5 hrs
Ascent: 400 m / Descent: 475 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Richmond in an ensuite room

DAY 12
Richmond to Danby Wiske

Easy walking through the Vale of Mobray. This area is known for its fertile agricultural land and hedgerows. During the morning, the walk continues along the River Swale, but beyond the village of Bolton-on-Swale, you will strike out across the fields towards Danby Wiske. When Wainwright originally did this walk, there was no option but to walk along the country lanes for this last section. Now, thanks to landowners honouring the public rights of way and supporting the C2C, we have a lovely alternative. Consider stopping at historic Kiplin Hall for a traditional cream tea on the way!

Walks: Moderate / 23 km / 7-8 hrs
Ascent: 175 m / Descent: 270 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Danby Wiske in an ensuite room

DAY 13
Danby Wiske to Ingleby

A shorter day today, across the last of the Vale of Mowbray to the foot of the Cleveland Hills via which you will climb up onto the North York Moors. A day to relax and prepare mentally for the challenges to come on the North York Moors. If continuing to the nearby village of Osmotherley, a slightly longer day will be required.

North York Moors

A wild area of open, virtually uninhabited, high moorland studded with heather, some of which is protected by the national park. Ancient standing stones, medieval crosses, and old 18th-century estate boundary markers are frequently encountered.

Walks: Easy / 14.5 km / 4-5 hrs
Ascent: 110 m / Descent: 75 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Ingleby Arncliff or Ingleby Cross in an ensuite room

DAY 14
Ingleby to Clay Bank Top

This is an exhilarating walk that begins with a steep climb up through Arncliffe Wood. Continue onto the wild upland moors covered with heather, with grand views over the Vale of Mowbray now far below. On a clear day, you can see back to the Pennine Hills, or even catch a glimpse of the North Sea! The remains of ancient burial sites abound here. Just look for the word tumulus or howe on your map. The Lord Stones Café, ingeniously built into the hillside, offers a nice spot for a coffee or lunch. A last push over the Wain Stones at Hasty Bank to descend to the road at Clay Bank Top, the end of the walk for today. You will be transferred to your accommodation.

Walks: Moderate / 18.5 km / 6 hrs
Ascent: 775 m / Descent: 570 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Broughton, Urra, or Chop Gate in an ensuite room

DAY 15
Clay Bank Top to Blakey Ridge

An easier day but one that begins with a steep climb to the top of Urra Moor. From there, follow the wide track over this upland heath-covered plateau. Keep your eyes peeled for ancient carved stones and old estate boundary markers. Part of the walk today is along the trail of the former Rosedale Ironstone Railway which used to serve the nearby mines over 150 years ago. With views on a clear day over the pretty Farndale valley, you will soon arrive at the road by Blakey Ridge and the historic Lion Inn. This is a great place to stay if they have room for you. This funky rustic establishment has been offering refreshments and accommodation to travellers for centuries! At the very least, have a break and enjoy a hot or cold beverage. You will be transferred to your accommodation if not staying at the Lion Inn.

Walks: Easy / 14 km / 4 hrs
Ascent: 310 m / Descent: 180 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Blakey Ridge in an ensuite room

DAY 16
Blakey Ridge to Glaisdale

A short walk along the road from the Lion Inn brings you past a prehistoric standing stone to Young Ralph’s Cross, the medieval stone marker featured on the emblem for the North York Moors National Park. Turning off onto a quiet country lane, you pass the squat white “wheel cross” known affectionately as Fat Betty, which may also be medieval, or far older. It is traditional for travellers to leave a food offering here. Make sure it’s not a muesli bar though – the grouse often use this cross as a feeding table! Easy moorland walking with views over the beautiful Great Fryup Dale (the name is a derivation of the Old Norse for the goddess Freya and hop meaning valley), along Glaisdale Rigg, and finally down into the village of Glaisdale.

Walks: Moderate / 16 km / 4-5 hrs
Ascent: 110 m / Descent: 410 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Glaisdale in an ensuite room

DAY 17
Glaisdale to Littlebeck

A lovely day of walking through the Esk Valley featuring cosy English villages nestled in gentle bucolic hills. For sheer charm, only the Lake District villages come even close. Through the village of Egton Bridge to Grosmont, home of the North York Moors Railway. Run by volunteers as a non-profit organisation, the steam trains here were some of those featured in the Harry Potter movies. Perhaps take a ride on one to the nearby village of Goathland and walk back to Grosmont along the rail trail. There are good cafés here too. Continuing on, there’s a last steep climb up to the top of Sleights Moor where you’ll get great views of the North Sea. You’re almost there!

Walks: Easy / 13 km / 4 hrs
Ascent: 370 m / Descent: 320 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation:
Littlebeck in an ensuite room

DAY 18
Littlebeck to Robin Hood’s Bay

Your last day on the Coast to Coast and it’s a spectacular one. From Littlebeck, walk through leafy woodlands to the Falling Foss Falls near Midge House Tearooms. Continue along the merry stream of May Beck before meeting up with country lanes for the gentle ascent to the top of the Graystone Hills moor. Then along a few more country lanes to the village of High Hawsker before reaching the tall sea cliffs north of Robin Hoods Bay. What a finale! Only a few km more, until finally, as you come over the last rise, your destination is revealed before you. Continue down through the village to the Bay Hotel at the very bottom to the sign proclaiming the official endpoint of the Coast to Coast – 192 Miles from St Bees (309 km). What an achievement and what an adventure!

Walks: Moderate / 18.5 km / 6 hrs
Ascent: 435m / Descent: 550m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Robin Hood’s Bay in an ensuite room

DAY 19
Robin Hood's Bay and away

After breakfast, the trip officially ends. This is a beautiful place to rest and take some time out. There’s also the opportunity to wander through the cobbled streets or take a beach walk.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

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 of accommodation in character-filled English B&Bs and pubs
  • Excellent English home-cooked breakfast daily and walkers lunches
  • 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 of 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, and 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 a 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

  • NIGHT 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

  • NIGHT 6

  • NIGHT 7

  • NIGHT 8

  • NIGHT 9

  • NIGHT 10

  • NIGHT 11

  • NIGHT 12

  • NIGHT 13

  • NIGHT 14

  • NIGHT 15

  • NIGHT 16

  • NIGHT 16

  • NIGHT 17

  • NIGHT 18

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

GENERAL INFO

WHY CHOOSE AUSWALK FOR THE COAST TO COAST

For starters, we’ve actually walked the track and taken 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

  1. 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 in 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, and 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 spending 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 beta.nationalexpress.

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.

  1. 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 beta.nationalexpress.

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.

By Road: For advice on driving from Robin Hood’s Bay, visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner.

  1. 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 walks are passable, and no scrambling is 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 require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  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

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 1 Oct 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3955

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1295
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 28 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $4115

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1615

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Cape-to-Cape In-Style Highlights – 6 Days

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.

Self-guided 6 Days From $2295 Moderate What's Included

Cape-to-Cape In-Style Highlights – 6 Days

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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
  • Luggage transport so you can walk pack free
  • Chef-prepared cooked breakfasts, substantial walkers lunches and dinners
  • 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 – 6 Days

Self-guided

Abel Tasman Great walk end to end. Stunning views over golden beaches, estuaries, coves & native forest. Unparalleled opportunities to swim.

Self-guided 6 Days From $2595 Moderate What's Included

Abel Tasman Walk End to End – 6 Days

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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 – 5 Days

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.

Self-guided 5 Days From $2495 Moderate What's Included

Great Ocean Walk Highlights – 5 Days

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What's Included
  • Five-day pack free walking holiday
  • The highlights of the Great Ocean Walk
  • Four nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Private tour of Loch Ard Gorge
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners 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 in Comfort – 13 Days

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.

Self-guided 13 Days From $4455 Challenging to Strenuous What's Included

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort – 13 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 12 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels or simple hotels
  • 12 breakfasts and 5 dinners
  • Maps, comprehensive Auswalk authored walk notes, GPX tracks and day-by-day summary
  • Transfers from Geneva airport – see General Information section
  • Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Daily luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening (not possible in mountain huts)
  • No need to carry a sleep sheet or towel (required for mountain huts)
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 309 km. The walk takes you through 3 major national park areas – the famous Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors.

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 and immensely rewarding for most. While it's not the shortest way across northern England, nor the longest, it is most definitely one of the loveliest!

Highlights

  • 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 country hospitality
  • Fabulous fell walking in the glorious Lake District
  • Rolling green hills, drystone walls, and fluffy sheep in the Yorkshire Dales
  • Walk to the summit of the Nine Standards Rigg with its enigmatic, drystone cairns (rock piles)
  • Stone Age standing stones, medieval stone crosses & old estate boundary markers on the North York Moors

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
$ 3955

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1295

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

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9
  • Day 10
  • Day 11
  • Day 12
  • Day 13
  • Day 14
  • Day 15
  • Day 16
  • Day 17
  • Day 18
  • Day 19

DAY 1
Getting to St Bees

Arrive at St Bees at your own leisure and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a stroll on the beach or explore the lighthouse and the Priory founded in 1020AD. Or simply take the opportunity to wander around the very pleasant township and relax in one of the many pubs in preparation for the first day’s walk.

Accommodation: St Bees in an ensuite room

DAY 2
St Bees to Ennerdale Bridge

Starting out along the cliffs at St Bees (great views of nesting seabird colonies in spring and early summer), the walk takes you through the agricultural landscapes around the villages of Moor Row and Cleator, before the ascent of Dent Fell Hill (353 m) for some grand views of the coast now behind you. Descend to the beautiful gorge of Nannycatch Gate and continue easily to Ennerdale Bridge Village.

Walks: Moderate to challenging / 23 km / 8 hrs
Ascent: 1105 m / Descent: 1005 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Ennerdale Bridge in an ensuite room

DAY 3
Ennerdale Bridge to the Borrowdale Valley

Today we enter the Lake District National Park, starting with a delightful walk along the southern shores of Ennerdale Water. A long forest road leads through conifer plantations to the famous Black Sail Hut. This is a nice spot to pause for lunch and marvel at the fantastic glacier-carved valleys all around. A steep climb along the line of Loft Beck takes you to a high saddle with extensive vistas that feature many famous peaks and lakes in the area. The old Moses Trod path then brings you to the Honnister Slate mines where we meet the winding road down to the Borrowdale Valley and today’s destination.

Walks: Moderate to challenging / 23 km / 8 hrs
Ascent: 715 m / Descent: 730 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Borrowdale Valley in an ensuite room

DAY 4
Borrowdale Valley to Grasmere

A gentle start through Stonethwaite Valley following the beck of the same name. Eagle Crag looming up on the far side of the valley. The gradient increases for the push to the rocky outcrop of Lining Crag. You’ll definitely deserve a break here to catch your breath and take in the views of Scafell Pike (England’s highest peak at 978 m) and more. Easier gradients follow to Greenup Edge and on, to the head of the Far Easedale Valley. From here, take either the good weather High Route over Calf and Helm Crags (add 1 hr but no additional climbing), or continue down towards Grasmere following the line of Far Easedale Beck. Grasmere was home to the poet Wordsworth for many years. He described this valley as, “the fairest place on earth”.

There are many things to see here, including Wordsworth’s famous Dove Cottage, now a museum. Perhaps consider a day off to spend some time in Grasmere. It’s well worth it!

Walks: Moderate / 15 km / 5 ½ hrs
Ascent: 622 m / Descent: 672 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Grassmere in an ensuite room

DAY 5
Grasmere to Patterdale - Glenridding

Both options today take you up the delightful valley of Tongue Gill to Grisedale Hause. From here, either continue down Grisedale Valley to Patterdale-Glenridding following the line of the beck that drains the tarn, or, in good weather, you may consider the high ridge walk via Saint Sunday Crag.

Patterdale-Glenridding is also a good option for a rest day, especially if you are keen to climb Helvellyn via the Classic Route, going up via Striding Edge and descending again via Swirral Edge.

This day offers two options – a low & high route

The direct (low) route via Grisedale Valley
Walks: Moderate / 14 km / 4 hrs
Ascent: 580 m / Descent: 490 m

The high route via Saint Sunday Crag
Walks: Moderate to challenging / 14 km / 5 hrs
Ascent: 850 m / Descent: 760 m

Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Patterdale – Glenridding in an ensuite room

DAY 6
Patterdale to Shap

A demanding leave-taking of the Lake District via Angle Tarn and Kidsty Pike (784 m), the Coast to Coast’s highest point. A steep descent from the high plateau via Kidsty Howes takes you towards Haweswater. The walk continues ‘undulating’ across the slopes above the lake to Burnbanks village. From there, continue along country lanes and paths past the ruins of the historic Shap Abbey to your accommodation for the night in the town of Shap. 

This day offers two options – a low & high route. This overview is for the high route via Kidsty Pike

Walks: Moderate to challenging / 25 km / 6.5 – 9 hrs
Ascent: 925 m / Descent: 813 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Haweswater or Shap in an ensuite room

DAY 7
Shap to Orton

Today is a shorter easier walk to allow you to recover after the challenges of yesterday. Starting in the village of Shap, cross the busy M6 via a pedestrian footbridge and walk the mystic moors through one of England’s “Empty Quarters”. The ancient stone circles and burial mounds here are evidence of a time when this area was far more densely settled.

Walks: Moderate / 12.5 km / 2.5-3.5 hrs
Ascent: 193 m / Descent: 216 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Tebay in an ensuite room

DAY 8
Orton to Kirkby Stephen

The onward route crosses the base of an upland area of limestone (the Orton Scar) before continuing over the moors towards Sunbiggin Tarn. In spring, this area is dotted with limestone-loving wildflowers, and the skies are filled with birdsong. These wild, windswept moors were also once home to thriving communities as attested by the Severals village complex (not excavated) and enigmatic “pillow mounds” near Smardale Bridge. A gentle climb up and over the fells brings you to the old market town of Kirkby Stephen. Granted a market charter in 1351, this vibrant town boasts numerous cafes, restaurants, pubs, and even a few outdoor gear stores!

Walks: Moderate / 20 km / 5-6 hrs
Ascent: 335 m / Descent: 395 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Kirkby Stephen in an ensuite room

DAY 9
Kirkby Stephen to Keld

This is a real red-letter day in which you cross that backbone of the British Isles known as the Pennines. In doing so, you also cross an important division of watersheds. From here, all rivers flow east to drain into the North Sea. It’s downhill all the way from here then? Unfortunately not! In clear weather, ascend on country lanes then boggy tracks to the summit of the Nine Standards Rigg (ridge) which features a series of large drystone cairns thought to be at least 800 years old. Beyond this lies a notorious area of peat hags (bogs) that might easily trap the unwary walker in wet years. Happily, the paths here are finally being reinforced with flagstones. In poor weather, an easy lower-level route is the better option.

Walks: Moderate / 18 km / 5-7 hrs
Ascent: 640m / Descent: 470m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Keld in an ensuite room

DAY 10
Keld to Reeth

The high route via the moors & old industrial ruins

A hill walk over the moors via an evocative landscape dotted with ruins of former mining activities.  Mining reached its peak here in the late 18th and early 19th century, employing thousands of people. Most of the remains encountered today, such as ruined smelt mills, chimneys, flues, old mine shafts, spoil heaps, and modified watercourses, date from this time. The industry collapsed towards the end of the 19th century.

The alternative low route via the Swale River

Sometimes described as the “Royal Road to Reeth”, this low-level route features a cornucopia of riverside loveliness. In spring and early summer, the meadows are lush with wildflowers. If the clouds are low over the hills, this is definitely the path to take.

This day offers two options – a low & high route

The high route via the moors & old industrial ruins
Walks: Moderate / 18 km / 5-6 hrs
Ascent: 640 m / Descent: 775 m

The alternative low route via the Swale River
Walks: Moderate / 19 km / 4-5 hrs
Ascent: 260 m / Descent: 395 m

Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Reeth in an ensuite room

DAY 11
Reeth to Richmond

An easy section, but one abundantly endowed with variety and beauty. Broadly following the line of the Swale River, today’s walk features pastures, meadowlands, woodlands, and country lanes. Taking you past the old priory at Marrick (now an outdoor adventure centre), through the small village of Marske with its lovely old church, and Whitcliffe Wood, to Richmond. Historic Richmond, dominated by the ruins of its famous old castle (dating from 1071), is the largest town on the C2C. Richmond is well worth exploring and would be a good place for a rest day.

Walks: Easy to Moderate / 17 km / 5 hrs
Ascent: 400 m / Descent: 475 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Richmond in an ensuite room

DAY 12
Richmond to Danby Wiske

Easy walking through the Vale of Mobray. This area is known for its fertile agricultural land and hedgerows. During the morning, the walk continues along the River Swale, but beyond the village of Bolton-on-Swale, you will strike out across the fields towards Danby Wiske. When Wainwright originally did this walk, there was no option but to walk along the country lanes for this last section. Now, thanks to landowners honouring the public rights of way and supporting the C2C, we have a lovely alternative. Consider stopping at historic Kiplin Hall for a traditional cream tea on the way!

Walks: Moderate / 23 km / 7-8 hrs
Ascent: 175 m / Descent: 270 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Danby Wiske in an ensuite room

DAY 13
Danby Wiske to Ingleby

A shorter day today, across the last of the Vale of Mowbray to the foot of the Cleveland Hills via which you will climb up onto the North York Moors. A day to relax and prepare mentally for the challenges to come on the North York Moors. If continuing to the nearby village of Osmotherley, a slightly longer day will be required.

North York Moors

A wild area of open, virtually uninhabited, high moorland studded with heather, some of which is protected by the national park. Ancient standing stones, medieval crosses, and old 18th-century estate boundary markers are frequently encountered.

Walks: Easy / 14.5 km / 4-5 hrs
Ascent: 110 m / Descent: 75 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Ingleby Arncliff or Ingleby Cross in an ensuite room

DAY 14
Ingleby to Clay Bank Top

This is an exhilarating walk that begins with a steep climb up through Arncliffe Wood. Continue onto the wild upland moors covered with heather, with grand views over the Vale of Mowbray now far below. On a clear day, you can see back to the Pennine Hills, or even catch a glimpse of the North Sea! The remains of ancient burial sites abound here. Just look for the word tumulus or howe on your map. The Lord Stones Café, ingeniously built into the hillside, offers a nice spot for a coffee or lunch. A last push over the Wain Stones at Hasty Bank to descend to the road at Clay Bank Top, the end of the walk for today. You will be transferred to your accommodation.

Walks: Moderate / 18.5 km / 6 hrs
Ascent: 775 m / Descent: 570 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Broughton, Urra, or Chop Gate in an ensuite room

DAY 15
Clay Bank Top to Blakey Ridge

An easier day but one that begins with a steep climb to the top of Urra Moor. From there, follow the wide track over this upland heath-covered plateau. Keep your eyes peeled for ancient carved stones and old estate boundary markers. Part of the walk today is along the trail of the former Rosedale Ironstone Railway which used to serve the nearby mines over 150 years ago. With views on a clear day over the pretty Farndale valley, you will soon arrive at the road by Blakey Ridge and the historic Lion Inn. This is a great place to stay if they have room for you. This funky rustic establishment has been offering refreshments and accommodation to travellers for centuries! At the very least, have a break and enjoy a hot or cold beverage. You will be transferred to your accommodation if not staying at the Lion Inn.

Walks: Easy / 14 km / 4 hrs
Ascent: 310 m / Descent: 180 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Blakey Ridge in an ensuite room

DAY 16
Blakey Ridge to Glaisdale

A short walk along the road from the Lion Inn brings you past a prehistoric standing stone to Young Ralph’s Cross, the medieval stone marker featured on the emblem for the North York Moors National Park. Turning off onto a quiet country lane, you pass the squat white “wheel cross” known affectionately as Fat Betty, which may also be medieval, or far older. It is traditional for travellers to leave a food offering here. Make sure it’s not a muesli bar though – the grouse often use this cross as a feeding table! Easy moorland walking with views over the beautiful Great Fryup Dale (the name is a derivation of the Old Norse for the goddess Freya and hop meaning valley), along Glaisdale Rigg, and finally down into the village of Glaisdale.

Walks: Moderate / 16 km / 4-5 hrs
Ascent: 110 m / Descent: 410 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Glaisdale in an ensuite room

DAY 17
Glaisdale to Littlebeck

A lovely day of walking through the Esk Valley featuring cosy English villages nestled in gentle bucolic hills. For sheer charm, only the Lake District villages come even close. Through the village of Egton Bridge to Grosmont, home of the North York Moors Railway. Run by volunteers as a non-profit organisation, the steam trains here were some of those featured in the Harry Potter movies. Perhaps take a ride on one to the nearby village of Goathland and walk back to Grosmont along the rail trail. There are good cafés here too. Continuing on, there’s a last steep climb up to the top of Sleights Moor where you’ll get great views of the North Sea. You’re almost there!

Walks: Easy / 13 km / 4 hrs
Ascent: 370 m / Descent: 320 m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation:
Littlebeck in an ensuite room

DAY 18
Littlebeck to Robin Hood’s Bay

Your last day on the Coast to Coast and it’s a spectacular one. From Littlebeck, walk through leafy woodlands to the Falling Foss Falls near Midge House Tearooms. Continue along the merry stream of May Beck before meeting up with country lanes for the gentle ascent to the top of the Graystone Hills moor. Then along a few more country lanes to the village of High Hawsker before reaching the tall sea cliffs north of Robin Hoods Bay. What a finale! Only a few km more, until finally, as you come over the last rise, your destination is revealed before you. Continue down through the village to the Bay Hotel at the very bottom to the sign proclaiming the official endpoint of the Coast to Coast – 192 Miles from St Bees (309 km). What an achievement and what an adventure!

Walks: Moderate / 18.5 km / 6 hrs
Ascent: 435m / Descent: 550m
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Robin Hood’s Bay in an ensuite room

DAY 19
Robin Hood's Bay and away

After breakfast, the trip officially ends. This is a beautiful place to rest and take some time out. There’s also the opportunity to wander through the cobbled streets or take a beach walk.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

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 of accommodation in character-filled English B&Bs and pubs
  • Excellent English home-cooked breakfast daily and walkers lunches
  • 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 of 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, and 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 a 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

  • NIGHT 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

  • NIGHT 6

  • NIGHT 7

  • NIGHT 8

  • NIGHT 9

  • NIGHT 10

  • NIGHT 11

  • NIGHT 12

  • NIGHT 13

  • NIGHT 14

  • NIGHT 15

  • NIGHT 16

  • NIGHT 16

  • NIGHT 17

  • NIGHT 18

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

WHY CHOOSE AUSWALK FOR THE COAST TO COAST

For starters, we’ve actually walked the track and taken 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

  1. 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 in 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, and 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 spending 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 beta.nationalexpress.

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.

  1. 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 beta.nationalexpress.

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.

By Road: For advice on driving from Robin Hood’s Bay, visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner.

  1. 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 walks are passable, and no scrambling is 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 require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  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

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 1 Oct 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3955

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1295
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 28 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $4115

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1615
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