Coast to Coast East – Kirkby Stephen to Robin Hood’s Bay – 11 Days

Walk the second section of the Coast to Coast through the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors at a more comfortable pace. This rewarding eastern section of Alfred Wainwright’s legendary Coast to Coast walk takes you from the rugged Pennines, through the Yorkshire Dales, and across the beautiful North York Moors National Park to the dramatic cliffs of the North Sea. This extended 11-day itinerary breaks up the middle stages of the route, allowing for shorter daily distances, more time to explore the scenery, and a more relaxed pace through one of England’s most charming walking regions.
Your journey begins in the Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, climbing the mystical Nine Standards Rigg before descending into the rolling green hills and timeless villages of the Yorkshire Dales. Follow the meandering River Swale into the historic market town of Richmond, then continue towards Blakey and the heather-covered slopes of the North York Moors. From here, the trail rolls dramatically towards the coast, ending with a triumphant arrival in Robin Hood’s Bay. Tradition calls for dipping your boots in the sea and celebrating with a pint, a glass of champagne, or an ice cream on the beach!
Along the way, you’ll experience classic English landscapes of dry stone walls, historic market towns, and friendly village pubs. Accommodation is in cosy small hotels, traditional inns, and welcoming guesthouses—places that showcase the warmth and hospitality of rural England.
If you’d like a faster-paced adventure, our 9-day version of this itinerary (trip code WCO) keeps the final two days between Richmond and Blakey Ridge intact for a more traditional challenge. Scroll down to explore all of our Coast to Coast walking options.