Self Guided Coast to Coast Walking Holidays

Complete Wainwright's walk across 3 national parks in England

Described by Alfred Wainwright as “one of the world’s great walks”, the iconic Coast to Coast is widely considered nowadays as the most classic of all UK long distance trails. Nearly 200 miles and traversing three National Parks, this is the quintessential English hill-walking and long-distance trail experience. Typically taking two weeks to complete, start your self guided walk near the red sandstone cliffs of St. Bees in Cumbria and finish at the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay on the North York Moors coast. 

Choose from self guided Coast to Coast trips with itineraries for the full route lasting 15, 16, 17 and 18 days, or opt for a shorter section of the trail.

Route finding on the Coast to Coast

The Coast to Coast trail varies in its signage. The walk is not yet an official long distance footpath (National Trail) and because of that there are no official waymarks. When you pass through the towns and villages, most often you will find wooden sign posts. In the Dales there are some Coast-to-Coast signs and in the Cleveland Hills you can partially follow certain waymarks. However, especially in the Lake District and in parts of the Dales you must be prepared as there are no waymarks whatsoever. This means that you do need to be able to navigate with a map and compass, especially when visibility is poor. 

The Coast-to-Coast crosses a number of other routes such as the Cumbrian Way and James Herriot Way so you can’t assume the person in front of you is going the same way.

Experience the diversity of England by choosing a self-guided walking trip on the Coast to Coast trail.

Find your Coast to Coast trip

Self Guided Walking Specialists on the Coast to Coast

We have have been operating active self guided walking holidays for over 45 years. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore Wainwright's Coast to Coast at your own pace. All of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.

Great Value & Quality Coast to Coast Walking Trips

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guidebooks along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your self guided walking holiday along England's Coast to Coast.

Personal Experiences

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot.


Walkers' Britain is committed to responsible travel and true sustainability. We take travellers to many countries which are home to challenging wilderness, rich biodiversity, and fragile environments. It is the travel choices we make while visiting these environments that reduce the negative impact. This is the essence of responsible and sustainable travel - something we take very seriously. View our award winning Responsible Travel Guidebook here.


Hotels

Often family run, these charming hotels range from 2 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Bed & breakfasts (B&Bs)

Simple yet rich in local character, the B&Bs chosen are clean, comfortable and run by hosts that help add to your experience.

Guesthouses

Similar to bed & breakfasts, these family-owned accommodations are clean and comfortable. Rooms with en suites generally have a shower but no bath due to space. There may be a separate room with a bath tub.

Country Inns

Enjoy the cosy country setting and convenience of staying in a comfortable place that is attached to a restaurant or pub, usually on the ground floor with the rooms above.


No self guided walking holiday along England's Coast to Coast would be complete without eating and drinking in one of its many quaintly decorated pubs (these are the best pubs on the Coast to Coast) for a hearty meal and to sample some local stout. There are tea rooms to enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea of cream & scones to refuel during your journey. Be sure to visit one of the farmer’s markets selling the region’s cheeses, meats, honey and beer, and there are even Michelin-star restaurants for serious foodies.


Trip reviews