The Wainwright Coast to Coast
Wainwright Coast to Coast Hike: An Epic Journey Across England's Diverse Landscapes
Embark on the legendary Wainwright Coast to Coast hike, a remarkable journey that spans approximately 305 kilometers across the breathtaking landscapes of Northern England. This trail, meticulously curated by Alfred Wainwright, offers intrepid explorers a diverse tapestry of environments that traverse three stunning national parks: the dramatic rises of the Lake District, the serene beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, and the sweeping expanses of the North York Moors. As you tread this path from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, you'll be enthralled by the majestic fells, lush forests, and picturesque grasslands, each step revealing a new facet of England's captivating terrain. Highlights along the way include the enchanting vistas from the peaks, the charming villages dotted along the route, and the ever-changing coastlines that bookend this iconic trek. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a passionate explorer, the Wainwright Coast to Coast is more than just a hike—it's an immersion into the heart of the English countryside.
Route Overview
The Wainwright Coast to Coast traverses Northern England, beginning at the village of St Bees on the Irish Sea coast and concluding at Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea. This iconic walk covers approximately 192 miles (309 kilometers), typically divided into 12 to 16 stages depending on pace, chosen route variations, and rest days. Most hikers complete the journey in about two weeks.
The route passes through three of England’s most celebrated national parks: the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the North York Moors National Park. Key locations include Ennerdale Bridge, Borrowdale, Grasmere, Patterdale, and Shap in the Lake District; then Kirkby Stephen, Keld, and Reeth as you move into the Dales; followed by Richmond and through the rural villages of the Vale of Mowbray, eventually leading into the North York Moors with notable stops at Ingleby Cross, Great Broughton, Glaisdale, Grosmont, before the final stretch to Robin Hood’s Bay.
Trail conditions cover a range of terrain types—from rugged mountain paths, moorland tracks, and farm fields, to quiet lanes and forest trails. Expect rocky ascents and descents in the Lake District, with potential for muddy and boggy sections especially in the Dales and Moors, and some road walking in connecting lowland sections. Weather can be unpredictable year-round, so adequate preparation for wet, windy, or changeable conditions is essential.
Waymarking is variable as the Coast to Coast is not a National Trail, so reliable navigation skills and carrying suitable maps or GPS devices are strongly recommended. Accommodation, resupply points, and amenities are available in most villages and towns en route, but advance booking is prudent during peak seasons. The varied landscapes, isolated stretches, and traditional villages make this one of the most diverse and rewarding long-distance hikes in Britain.
A Journey Through England's Historical Heart
The Wainwright Coast to Coast isn't just a trek through stunning landscapes; it's a journey steeped in history and cultural significance. Originally devised by Alfred Wainwright, a renowned British fellwalker and author, in 1973, this trail has become an emblematic route showcasing centuries of English heritage. As hikers traverse from St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire, they walk paths once tread by historic figures and through lands shaped by ancient industries. The Lake District, known for its rugged mountains, was a cornerstone of the slate and lead mining industry, remnants of which can still be explored today. Passing through the Yorkshire Dales, hikers might stumble upon Roman roads and medieval castles, which tell stories of conquest and resilience. The North York Moors' sprawling landscapes once hosted a thriving ironstone mining industry, and its picturesque villages have seen centuries of agrarian life. Each step along the trail is not just a physical journey but a passage through England's rich tapestry of history.
Notable highlights
St Bees Head: The starting point of the trail, St Bees Head boasts dramatic coastal cliffs offering stunning views over the Irish Sea. It’s home to a significant seabird colony, including puffins and kittiwakes, which makes it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Helvellyn: Rising majestically in the Lake District, this prominent peak is one of the highest in England. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding fells and lakes, and the exhilarating trek along Striding Edge, a narrow ridge that adds a thrilling element to the journey.
Richmond Castle: Located in the historic market town of Richmond, this well-preserved fortress dates back to the 11th century. Overlooking the River Swale, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Norman history and provides fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.
Nine Standards Rigg: These mysterious and ancient cairns located on the walker’s route mark the boundary between Cumbria and Yorkshire. Their origin is shrouded in mystery, making them a compelling feature for history buffs and folklore enthusiasts alike.
Robin Hood’s Bay: The charming fishing village serves as the trail’s terminus. Known for its quaint cobbled streets and rich pirate history, it offers a perfect place to celebrate the completion of the hike while enjoying the picturesque North Sea coastline.
Challenges to expect
Hiking the Wainwright Coast to Coast presents a series of challenges that demand preparation and resilience. The trail's varied terrain includes steep climbs and descents, particularly within the Lake District, where sections such as Striding Edge require careful footing and a head for heights. Weather in this region is notoriously unpredictable; hikers may experience sudden shifts from sunshine to rain or even snow, especially at higher altitudes. The route can also be quite exposed, with strong winds adding an extra layer of difficulty. Navigation is crucial, as the path is not officially waymarked, requiring reliable maps and GPS devices to avoid getting lost, particularly in foggy conditions. The remote sections, like those on the North York Moors, offer limited access to facilities and water sources, necessitating careful planning and sufficient supplies. Although wildlife encounters are generally benign, awareness of potential risks like grazing cattle is advised to ensure a safe journey across England's diverse landscapes.
United Kingdom 
England - Mountainous
- Forest
- Coastal
- Grassland
- Gravel
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Muddy
- Hotels
- Guesthouses
- Campsites
- Hostels
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Dog Friendly On Leash
- Restrooms
- Potable Water Sources
- Shelters
- Public Transport Access Points
Starting on the Irish Sea coast, this section follows dramatic cliffs before turning inland. The trail passes through Sandwith and Cleator, then climbs Dent Fell. After descending, the path wanders through farmland and woodland to reach Ennerdale Bridge.
Following the length of Ennerdale Water, this route skirts lakeshore and forest tracks before remote hiking through the wild Ennerdale Valley. Ascend past the Black Sail Youth Hostel and cross Honister Pass, then descend into the scenic Borrowdale Valley.
Climbing up out of Borrowdale, the route traverses Greenup Edge with panoramic views. Descend rocky paths and meandering streams toward Easedale, then follow the tracks through countryside to arrive in the lakeside village of Grasmere.
The day begins with a steep climb to Grisedale Tarn. Options allow for taking the high route over St Sunday Crag or the more accessible Grisedale Valley route. Both options ultimately descend to the village of Patterdale near Ullswater.
From Patterdale, the trail climbs past Angle Tarn and over Kidsty Pike, the route’s highest point. It descends steeply to Haweswater Reservoir, then makes its way through undulating farmland and open countryside before reaching Shap.
Cross out of the Lake District, entering rolling limestone country with open pastures, drystone walls, and charming villages like Orton. Continue across remote moorland and ancient tracks, finishing in the bustling market town of Kirkby Stephen.
The route crosses gentler farmland, then tackles the climb to Nine Standards Rigg where cairns mark the upland pass. Expect boggy ground in wet weather before descending into Swaledale and the hamlet of Keld.
This section through Swaledale offers two main choices: a riverside path along the Swale or a high moorland option passing remnants of lead mining. Both routes offer scenic countryside and finished in the traditional village of Reeth.
Leaving Reeth, the path follows riverside meadows, wooded valleys, and quiet farmland. The terrain eases before entering historic Richmond, a larger town with full services.
A lengthy flatter section through the Vale of Mowbray, this day follows footpaths, tracks, and some country roads. Hedgerows, arable fields, and occasional villages characterize the approach to Ingleby Cross at the edge of the North York Moors.
This stage enters the North York Moors, climbing steadily from Ingleby Cross through forests to open heather moorland. The route follows the Cleveland Way for much of this day, passing vast moors and arriving at the isolated inn of Blakey Ridge.
From Blakey Ridge, follow an old railway line and then descend gradually through open moorland, eventually reaching Eskdale. The path curves through farmland and small woods before arriving in the attractive village of Glaisdale.
The final stretch leads through the villages of Egton Bridge and Grosmont, then over moorland and through woodlands to the coast. After following the dramatic cliff-top path, descend into Robin Hood’s Bay and the completion of the Coast to Coast Walk.