The Coast to Coast Walk

The Coast to Coast

Everything you need to know

Dubbed 'One of the World’s Great Walks', the fame of England's Coast to Coast is simply a testament to the unequivocal character of the UK’s natural wonders, quaint towns, historic sites and, of course, its people.

While this wilder side of England with its hills – small in stature as they are when compared to the likes of the Himalayas or the Swiss Alps, it still offers endless spades of beauty and charm along its 190-plus miles trail.

Approaching the end of the Coast to Coast near Robin Hood's Bay | John Millen

Herdwick sheep at a local farm in England's Lake District | John Hodgson

Ascending on the Coast to Coast | John Millen

Exploring three of the UK’s national parks, the route boasts spectacular mountain scenes, rugged moors, rolling hills and captivating coastal scenes, all whilst taking a deep dive into quintessential English culture. From climbing iconic fells to wandering down maze-like country lanes, resting weary feet in cosy bed and breakfasts to sampling authentic pubs and pints, the Coast to Coast route delivers on every account.

The beauty of the C2C trail is that you can experience it in bite-sized glory or go all-out on an epic holiday between 15 to 18 days. There are plenty of added values when travelling with Walkers' Britain, like going pack-free on a range of affordable self-guided holidays and guided small group trips.

Coast to Coast Popular Trips

What to Expect on the Coast to Coast

The Coast to Coast is a demanding yet rewarding journey, requiring physical endurance, good preparation, and mental resilience. To ensure our travellers are ready for the challenge, we strive to provide all the information and support they need well in advance.

Our goal is to ensure every traveller feels prepared, confident, and excited to take on the Coast to Coast, knowing they have the tools and support to succeed.

How hard is the Coast to Coast Trail?

The Coast to Coast is a respectable challenge.It’s full of variety however – expect a combination of stunning mountain trails, weaving up and down Lakeland fells, moorland tracks, pastoral paths through fields of rolling hills, wandering country lanes and tree-covered bridleways.

The other challenging factor is the weather. Naturally, being in the UK, you can expect a chance of rain and some exposure to the elements in the higher-altitude areas.

How Far is the Coast to Coast?

The Coast to Coast starts from St Bees in Cumbria on the west coast and finishes at Robin Hood’s Bay on the Heritage Coast of the North Walk Moors. The walk is a good distance at 192.2 miles (309.3km) long – and offers a serious challenge with 6,077, (19,933ft) of ascent.

Where do you stop along the Coast to Coast?

The journey begins in St Bees, following cliffside tracks and green foothills to Ennerdale in the Lake District. Through Borrowdale, Grasmere and then under Helvellyn, the route brings you to Patterdale and then to the high village of Shap via a few more steep ascents and descents. Here the landscape changes, from the peaks of the Lake District to the dramatic limestone plateau of Westmoreland.

From there, you walk through the dramatic Yorkshire Dales, entering Swaledale, followed by Reeth and Richmond, before heading into the North York Moors.

A final challenge of the Cleveland hills followed by a warren of woodland paths, old coach roads and moors deliver you finally to the charismatic east coast, and your final destination in Robin Hood’s Bay.

How far will I walk per day on the Coast to Coast walk?

The distance you walk each day will vary based on your chosen itinerary. On average, the shortest day involves about 11 miles and takes approximately 4 hours, while the longest stretches to 24 miles, requiring around 9 hours.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, our extended 18-day Coast to Coast itineraries feature shorter daily walks.

What is the food and drink like on the trail?

Everything from hearty pub grub to modern fine dining can be found along the route, with plenty of choices as you go. As you’ll pass through so many unique places in the UK though, look out for the regional delicacies you’ll find along the way.

What season is best to walk the Coast to Coast?

Spring (March - May): As the weather warms up without becoming too hot, spring brings vibrant green scenery and wildflowers in full bloom, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey.

Summer (June - August): Enjoy long sunny days and lush green landscapes. With plenty of stops along the way, you can pause to rest and unwind at scenic spots or in charming bed and breakfasts.

Autumn (September - November): The trails become quieter, and the landscape transforms into a rich palette of autumnal browns and oranges. With drier weather and less humidity, the clear conditions are perfect for comfortable walking with stunning views.