Coast to Coast Guided Trail
Meandering through the stunning countryside of three of England’s national parks (Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors), Alfred Wainwright’s legendary Coast to Coast walking route was published in his 1973 guidebook. Complete with challenges and rewards in equal measure, you’ll journey from the coast of the Irish Sea at St Bees, to the North Sea coast at Robin Hood’s Bay. Expect to spot plenty of mountains, fells, lakes, castles, ancient ruins, idyllic valleys, rolling moorland, varied wildlife, and spectacular coastal scenery along the way.
What you’ll love
- Following in the footsteps of hillwalker and writer Alfred Wainwright
- Walking across England from the Irish Sea to the North Sea
- Crossing three unique and stunning national parks
- Discovering dramatic rugged mountains and gentle countryside
- Finishing in the quaint fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay
- Staying at welcoming hotels and guesthouses along the route
What’s included
- Comfortable en-suite rooms in our partner accommodation(s)
- Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
- Daily packed lunches
- Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
- Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader
- All transport to and from walks where necessary
- Luggage transfers
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Check-in is at the Shepherds Arms from 3pm. Your leader will either be on the transfer from St Bees railway station (4:30pm) or will be in the residents lounge at 7pm to meet the group for a quick introduction to the holiday before dinner.
Shepherds Arms Hotel, Ennerdale Bridge - Coast to Coast Days 1-2
The Shepherds Arms is a well-known landmark at the centre of Ennerdale Bridge and close to the Coast to Coast. An old village centre farm, the Shepherds Arms Hotel is a comfortable and friendly destination. Rooms include TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and toiletries. Wi-Fi and mobile phone coverage are limited. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
After a ceremonial dipping of the toes in the Irish Sea, our first four miles follow the cliff path past St Bees Lighthouse. The cliffs, about 300 feet high, are nature reserves and important sites for nesting seabirds. Leaving the coast we head inland through the village of Cleator, an old farming village before the advent of iron-ore mining. From the abandoned industrial landscape of West Cumbria we walk east to Dent (1,131 feet), our first ascent. We are rewarded with magnificent views to the Lake District fells, the west Cumbrian coast and on a clear day the Galloway hills. Descending steeply, we continue through the pretty Nannycatch valley to Ennerdale Bridge.
14½ miles (23.5km) with 2,350 feet (700m) of ascent
Shepherds Arms Hotel, Ennerdale Bridge - Coast to Coast Days 1-2
The Shepherds Arms is a well-known landmark at the centre of Ennerdale Bridge and close to the Coast to Coast. An old village centre farm, the Shepherds Arms Hotel is a comfortable and friendly destination. Rooms include TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and toiletries. Wi-Fi and mobile phone coverage are limited. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
A rough path alongside Ennerdale Water, then a forestry track leads us to Black Sail hostel and an amphitheatre of spectacular mountain scenery. The craggy north face of Pillar to the south and the impressive summit of Great Gable dominate the head of the valley. After a rough, steep ascent from Ennerdale we follow Moses Trod. This old packhorse route leads us to Honister Pass with the slate quarry and visitor centre, before we follow a grassy track down to Seatoller.
14½ miles (23km) with 2,250 feet (700m) of ascent
Glaramara Hotel, Borrowdale Valley - Coast to Coast Day 3
Situated in the Borrowdale Valley, the Glaramara Hotel is the perfect base for our group. A home away from home with the additional plus of drying facilities, and roaring log fires. All rooms have a hospitality tray which includes tea and coffee, and bathrooms are equipped with toiletries. Free Wifi is available too. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
We leave the Borrowdale Valley along another packhorse route following Stonethwaite, beneath the imposing Eagle Crags. Ascending a rough, steep path to Greenup Edge, we usually descend to the shelter of Easdale Gill and down into Wordsworth’s village of Grasmere. If time allows we can follow a broad ridge to Helm Crag before a final steep descent leads us into Grasmere.
10½ miles (16.5km) with 2,650 feet (800m) of ascent
The Royal Hotel, Dockray - Coast to Coast Days 4-5
The Royal Hotel is a family run traditional country hotel and nestles among the Lake District Fells, about one mile from the shores of Ullswater. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. Wi-Fi is also available. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Our low-level route today involves another packhorse track, becoming steeper and reaching its highest point (1,929 feet) at Grisedale Hause. The scenery gets grander by the minute as the fells tower above Grisedale Tarn, St Sunday Crag and Fairfield on the right, and the Helvellyn massif on our left. Our descent to Patterdale is a rocky path. The high level route traverses St Sunday Crag (2,756ft). This involves an additional ascent of about 1,000 feet, and rewards us with excellent views of Lakeland and Ullswater as we descend steeply to Patterdale.
9 miles (14.5km) with 2,700 feet (820m) of ascent
The Royal Hotel, Dockray - Coast to Coast Days 4-5
The Royal Hotel is a family run traditional country hotel and nestles among the Lake District Fells, about one mile from the shores of Ullswater. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. Wi-Fi is also available. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Leaving Patterdale we follow a narrow path up to Angle Tarn at the head of Ullswater. We walk along the Roman road of High Street, and then ascend to the summit of Kidsty Pike, the highest point on the entire walk at 2,560 feet. Descending steeply to the southern end of Haweswater we follow an undulating stony path along the shores of Haweswater to Burnbanks. We leave the Lake District National Park and continue through the wooded valley of the River Lowther to Shap, passing the picturesque ruins of Shap Abbey.
15½ miles (25km) with 3,180 feet (980m) of ascent
Kings Arms Hotel, Shap - Coast to Coast, Days 6-8
Located in the centre of Shap, directly on Wainwrights Coast to Coast path, is the historic Kings Arms Hotel. An old coaching inn, believed to date from the 18th century, it remains a family run hotel. The team are very friendly and well versed in hosting walkers on the trail. They offer hearty, home cooked meals and have a popular beer garden, with extensive views of the local fells. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities, use of a hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, although most rooms are ensuite, there is a small possibility you may be allocated a room with a private bathroom. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
A long day but easier underfoot, we pass through the gentler hills of the limestone plateau in an area little-known to walkers before the Coast to Coast became popular. We visit Sunbiggin Tarn - part of a National Nature Reserve - continuing over Ravenstonedale Moor through Smardale to Kirkby Stephen.
20 miles (32km) with 1,800 feet (550m) of ascent
Kings Arms Hotel, Shap - Coast to Coast, Days 6-8
Located in the centre of Shap, directly on Wainwrights Coast to Coast path, is the historic Kings Arms Hotel. An old coaching inn, believed to date from the 18th century, it remains a family run hotel. The team are very friendly and well versed in hosting walkers on the trail. They offer hearty, home cooked meals and have a popular beer garden, with extensive views of the local fells. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities, use of a hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, although most rooms are ensuite, there is a small possibility you may be allocated a room with a private bathroom. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Leaving the market town of Kirkby Stephen, we pass through the village of Hartley and ascend the fell road to Hartley Fell. A track leads us to the summit of Nine Standards Rigg, at 2,170 feet the Pennine watershed. From this point we see to the north Cross Fell, the highest point of the Pennines, with the lovely Eden valley below. Westwards are the outline of Lakeland hills in the distance, whilst to the southwest and south lies the Mallerstang valley backed by Wild Boar Fell and the Howgills. From here we descend the wet and peaty moors by way of Whitsundale into Swaledale and down to the tiny village of Keld.
13 miles (20.5km) with 2,050 feet (650m) of ascent
Kings Arms Hotel, Shap - Coast to Coast, Days 6-8
Located in the centre of Shap, directly on Wainwrights Coast to Coast path, is the historic Kings Arms Hotel. An old coaching inn, believed to date from the 18th century, it remains a family run hotel. The team are very friendly and well versed in hosting walkers on the trail. They offer hearty, home cooked meals and have a popular beer garden, with extensive views of the local fells. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities, use of a hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, although most rooms are ensuite, there is a small possibility you may be allocated a room with a private bathroom. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
We briefly follow the Pennine Way as we cross the Swale near Kisdon Force then continue on a good track to Crackpot Hall. A narrow traversing path takes us along Swinner Gill to the site of an old mine. The valley was an important and busy area of lead mining during the 17th to 19th centuries, and for much of the day we will be walking along good tracks through the fascinating remains of this industrial landscape. Our destination is Reeth, an attractive village where old houses are built around a large rectangular green.
11½ miles (18km) with 2,150 feet (650m) of ascent
Black Lion Hotel, Richmond – Coast to Coast Days 9-11
Situated in the heart of the historic town of Richmond, the Black Lion Hotel is a family-run, converted Georgian coach house. Featuring open log fires in the bar area, a warm welcome awaits. All rooms have TV, complimentary WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Following field paths along the delightful River Swale we reach 12th century Marrick Priory, now an adventure centre. We leave the river to pass the hamlet of Marrick, then the attractive little village of Marske, with its 12th century church. Continuing high above the Swale, we pass Whitcliffe Scar and continue to reach the picturesque and historic town of Richmond, dominated by the dramatic Norman castle.
10½ miles (17km) with 1,250 feet (380m) of ascent
Black Lion Hotel, Richmond – Coast to Coast Days 9-11
Situated in the heart of the historic town of Richmond, the Black Lion Hotel is a family-run, converted Georgian coach house. Featuring open log fires in the bar area, a warm welcome awaits. All rooms have TV, complimentary WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
From Swaledale to the Cleveland Hills is the Vale of Mowbray, a fertile plain just above sea level and the only section of our journey that lies entirely over low ground. From the cobbled streets of Richmond we continue along the Swale, passing under the A1 where it crosses the river at Catterick Bridge. At the church in Bolton-on-Swale there is a monument to a local resident who is said to have lived for 169 years. We finish at Danby Wiske, at 110 feet the lowest point on the entire walk.
15½ miles (25km) with 600 feet (200m) of ascent
Black Lion Hotel, Richmond – Coast to Coast Days 9-11
Situated in the heart of the historic town of Richmond, the Black Lion Hotel is a family-run, converted Georgian coach house. Featuring open log fires in the bar area, a warm welcome awaits. All rooms have TV, complimentary WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
As we continue across the Vale of Mowbray, following an assortment of field paths, farm roads and quiet lanes, the Cleveland Hills become visible ahead, the village of Ingleby Arncliffe nestling at the foot. Our first ascent of the day is Beacon Hill, a fine viewpoint despite being only 982 feet high. The Ordnance Survey column on the summit, starting point for the Lyke Wake Walk, marks the start of the North York Moors section of our walk, today a splendid high-level traverse along the escarpment of the Cleveland Hills. We descend steeply into the peaceful wooded valley of Scugdale, and then ascend again towards the open expanse of Carlton Moor and our destination of Carlton Bank.
17 miles (27.5km) with 2,150 feet (650m) of ascent
Larpool Hall - Coast to Coast Days 12-15
Given that the Yorkshire coast never loses its capacity to enchant, it’s easy to see the appeal of this Grade II-listed house overlooking the Esk Valley and the North Sea. The setting is perfect; in the former fishing town of Whitby that’s best known for its fish and chips, quaint harbour, and Dracula connections (Irish author Bram Stoker drew his inspiration for his Gothic novel when holidaying here in 1890). You’ll have all the sightseeing greats within walking or driving distance, including the 13th century Whitby Abbey, the wonderful Whitby Sands, and the 199 Steps leading up to the old St. Mary’s Church (it’s customary to count them as you climb). Not only are the North York Moors right on your doorstep, but the walk along Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay is rather special, too.
We begin the day with a rugged, steeply undulating walk past the dramatic Wainstones to Clay Bank Top, where we ascend Carr Ridge and continue eastwards to Round Hill, at 1,489 feet the highest point on the Cleveland Hills. After Urra Moor we join the old ironstone railway at Bloworth Crossing, following the track to the 16th century Lion Inn, standing alone on Blakey Ridge.
12 miles (19.5km) with 1,950 feet (600m) of ascent
Larpool Hall - Coast to Coast Days 12-15
Given that the Yorkshire coast never loses its capacity to enchant, it’s easy to see the appeal of this Grade II-listed house overlooking the Esk Valley and the North Sea. The setting is perfect; in the former fishing town of Whitby that’s best known for its fish and chips, quaint harbour, and Dracula connections (Irish author Bram Stoker drew his inspiration for his Gothic novel when holidaying here in 1890). You’ll have all the sightseeing greats within walking or driving distance, including the 13th century Whitby Abbey, the wonderful Whitby Sands, and the 199 Steps leading up to the old St. Mary’s Church (it’s customary to count them as you climb). Not only are the North York Moors right on your doorstep, but the walk along Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay is rather special, too.
Crossing the head of Rosedale, we see a number of ancient crosses and visible scars of the ironstone workings. A good track takes us over Danby Moor to Great Fryup Head and on to Glaisdale Rigg. We descend to the village of Glaisdale with the 17th century Beggar's Bridge. Along the wooded Esk Valley we cross the river at Egton Bridge, and then follow an old toll road to Grosmont.
13 miles (21.5km) with 600 feet (200m) of ascent
Larpool Hall - Coast to Coast Days 12-15
Given that the Yorkshire coast never loses its capacity to enchant, it’s easy to see the appeal of this Grade II-listed house overlooking the Esk Valley and the North Sea. The setting is perfect; in the former fishing town of Whitby that’s best known for its fish and chips, quaint harbour, and Dracula connections (Irish author Bram Stoker drew his inspiration for his Gothic novel when holidaying here in 1890). You’ll have all the sightseeing greats within walking or driving distance, including the 13th century Whitby Abbey, the wonderful Whitby Sands, and the 199 Steps leading up to the old St. Mary’s Church (it’s customary to count them as you climb). Not only are the North York Moors right on your doorstep, but the walk along Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay is rather special, too.
Our final day starts with a steep surfaced road ascent out of Grosmont to Sleights Moor. From the high point of Flat Howe (953 feet) we look ahead to the North Sea, with Whitby and its Abbey. We drop into the pretty wooded valley of Little Beck, and then re-ascend to cross Greystone Hills, the last stretch of moorland. Continuing to the village of Hawsker, we enjoy an invigorating cliff walk along part of the Cleveland Way to our destination at Robin Hood’s Bay.
15½ miles (25km) with 1,950 feet (600m) of ascent
Larpool Hall - Coast to Coast Days 12-15
Given that the Yorkshire coast never loses its capacity to enchant, it’s easy to see the appeal of this Grade II-listed house overlooking the Esk Valley and the North Sea. The setting is perfect; in the former fishing town of Whitby that’s best known for its fish and chips, quaint harbour, and Dracula connections (Irish author Bram Stoker drew his inspiration for his Gothic novel when holidaying here in 1890). You’ll have all the sightseeing greats within walking or driving distance, including the 13th century Whitby Abbey, the wonderful Whitby Sands, and the 199 Steps leading up to the old St. Mary’s Church (it’s customary to count them as you climb). Not only are the North York Moors right on your doorstep, but the walk along Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay is rather special, too.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
Shepherds Arms Hotel, Ennerdale Bridge - Coast to Coast Days 1-2
The Shepherds Arms is a well-known landmark at the centre of Ennerdale Bridge and close to the Coast to Coast. An old village centre farm, the Shepherds Arms Hotel is a comfortable and friendly destination. Rooms include TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and toiletries. Wi-Fi and mobile phone coverage are limited. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Glaramara Hotel, Borrowdale Valley - Coast to Coast Day 3
Situated in the Borrowdale Valley, the Glaramara Hotel is the perfect base for our group. A home away from home with the additional plus of drying facilities, and roaring log fires. All rooms have a hospitality tray which includes tea and coffee, and bathrooms are equipped with toiletries. Free Wifi is available too. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
The Royal Hotel, Dockray - Coast to Coast Days 4-5
The Royal Hotel is a family run traditional country hotel and nestles among the Lake District Fells, about one mile from the shores of Ullswater. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. Wi-Fi is also available. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Kings Arms Hotel, Shap - Coast to Coast, Days 6-8
Located in the centre of Shap, directly on Wainwrights Coast to Coast path, is the historic Kings Arms Hotel. An old coaching inn, believed to date from the 18th century, it remains a family run hotel. The team are very friendly and well versed in hosting walkers on the trail. They offer hearty, home cooked meals and have a popular beer garden, with extensive views of the local fells. Rooms include TV, tea and coffee making facilities, use of a hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, although most rooms are ensuite, there is a small possibility you may be allocated a room with a private bathroom. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Black Lion Hotel, Richmond – Coast to Coast Days 9-11
Situated in the heart of the historic town of Richmond, the Black Lion Hotel is a family-run, converted Georgian coach house. Featuring open log fires in the bar area, a warm welcome awaits. All rooms have TV, complimentary WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
Larpool Hall - Coast to Coast Days 12-15
Given that the Yorkshire coast never loses its capacity to enchant, it’s easy to see the appeal of this Grade II-listed house overlooking the Esk Valley and the North Sea. The setting is perfect; in the former fishing town of Whitby that’s best known for its fish and chips, quaint harbour, and Dracula connections (Irish author Bram Stoker drew his inspiration for his Gothic novel when holidaying here in 1890). You’ll have all the sightseeing greats within walking or driving distance, including the 13th century Whitby Abbey, the wonderful Whitby Sands, and the 199 Steps leading up to the old St. Mary’s Church (it’s customary to count them as you climb). Not only are the North York Moors right on your doorstep, but the walk along Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay is rather special, too.
Essential information
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat
- Rucksack with waterproof liner
- Flask for hot drinks
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- Sunscreen
- UV sunglasses
Recommended
- Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)
- Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters
- First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent
- Sit mat
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
- Camera
- First-aid kit
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
Holiday prices
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
09 Jun - 24 Jun 2025 15 nights |
Guided Trail
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £3,259 pp |
from £3,259 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
01 Sep - 16 Sep 2025 15 nights |
Guided Trail Single from £3,259 Double from £3,259 pp |
from £3,259 pp |
from £3,259 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
Important information
Single rooms
We are unable to offer single rooms as a booking option on the Coast to Coast Guided Trail. If you are a solo traveller you must be willing to share.
348Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
