Cleveland Way and Cinder Track Loop

The loop typically starts from locations like Robin Hood's Bay. You'll find parking options in these coastal villages, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially during peak season, as spaces can fill up quickly.

Yes, the loop is generally dog-friendly. The Cinder Track, with its wider, flatter path, is particularly suitable for dogs. On the Cleveland Way section, dogs should be kept on a lead, especially near cliff edges, livestock, and to protect local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your dog.

The loop can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for coastal hiking. Autumn brings beautiful colors, especially on the moorland sections. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on the Cleveland Way's clifftop paths.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Cleveland Way and Cinder Track Loop within the North York Moors National Park. Access to the trails is generally free. However, you may encounter parking fees in some villages or car parks along the route.

The loop offers contrasting terrain. The Cleveland Way section features varied and often challenging paths, including grass, compacted earth, and stony tracks, with significant ascents and descents, steep climbs, and steps. In contrast, the Cinder Track is much flatter and more accessible, built on a former railway line with a gentle gradient. Its surface is typically compacted limestone or fine black grit, with some tarmacked sections.

The full loop is approximately 12.4 km (7.7 miles) long and typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace, the number of stops you make, and the specific starting point.

The route offers numerous highlights. On the Cleveland Way, you'll get impressive views of the North Sea and picturesque fishing villages. The Cinder Track, while less coastal, passes through woodlands and old quarries, with occasional sea glimpses. Specific highlights include the View of Scarborough Castle from Crook Ness Beach and the View of Scarborough Castle from Scalby Ness Headland. You might also enjoy the View of Cloughton Wyke.

The loop offers sections suitable for different abilities. The Cinder Track is significantly easier due to its level gradients and wide, compacted paths, making it a great option for families or those seeking a more relaxed walk. The Cleveland Way section, however, is more challenging with steep ascents and descents, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.

Yes, the route intersects with several other official trails. You'll find sections that overlap with the EuroVelo 12 - North Sea Cycle Route - part United Kingdom 3, Moors to Sea, NCN 1 Humber to Tees, Cleveland Way, King Charles III England Coast Path, and the Tabular Hills Walk. The Cinder Track itself is a prominent path along the route.

Yes, the loop connects or passes through charming coastal villages and towns such as Robin Hood's Bay, Ravenscar, Whitby, and Scarborough. These locations offer excellent opportunities for refreshments, meals, and accommodation, allowing you to break up your hike or extend your stay.

Many hikers prefer to tackle the more strenuous, cliff-top Cleveland Way section first, enjoying its dramatic views and challenging terrain. This allows for an easier return along the Cinder Track, which offers a gentler gradient and a more relaxed pace. The Cleveland Way is known for its significant ascents and descents, while the Cinder Track follows a disused railway line, making it much flatter.