Traverse England by foot on this classic hiking adventure, including the most spectacular stages of Alfred Wainwright's epic "Coast to Coast" trail. Journeying from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, you'll cross three national parks: the Lake District, featuring England's highest mountains; the rolling green hills and river valleys of the Yorkshire Dales; and the dramatic landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors. Marvel at the ever-changing scenery as you pass medieval castles, historic houses, and ancient standing stones along the way. End days on the trail at top-notch hotels in picturesque villages, where a warm English welcome awaits.
Traverse England by foot on this classic hiking adventure, including the most spectacular stages of Alfred Wainwright's epic "Coast to Coast" trail. Journeying from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, you'll cross three national parks: the Lake District, featuring England's highest mountains; the rolling green hills and river valleys of the Yorkshire Dales; and the dramatic landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors. Marvel at the ever-changing scenery as you pass medieval castles, historic houses, and ancient standing stones along the way. End days on the trail at top-notch hotels in picturesque villages, where a warm English welcome awaits.
Hear from Ben Walker one of our expert guides on England Coast to Coast! Join us for this popular bucket-list trek across England, from the shores of the Irish Sea to the North Sea, in 2024.
Gear up for incredibly rewarding hikes on the best 90 miles of England's famous trail
[Description] => Gear up for incredibly rewarding hikes on the best 90 miles of England's famous trail
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Delight in breathtaking scenery, from the rugged Lake District to the windswept North Yorkshire Moors
[Description] => Delight in breathtaking scenery, from the rugged Lake District to the windswept North Yorkshire Moors
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Enjoy warm hospitality and hearty local fare at traditional inns and charming guest houses
Arrive in Penrith on the edge of the Lake District, where you'll meet your guides and fellow travelers at the train station. Transfer to your luxury hotel in the western Lake District and settle into your accommodation for the next two days. Before dinner, your guides will deliver a welcome brief to talk through the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: Moresby Hall
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Hike England's West Coast
Day 2
Start your journey near St Bees Head on the shores of the Irish Sea. Follow paths from the sandy shore up to the red sandstone cliffs, before turning inland through scenic fields and tranquil country lanes. Stop for a pub lunch at Cleator and prepare to tackle the first hill of the trip, walking up and over the bald crown of Dent (1,154'). Enjoy spectacular views of the hilly Lake District and end the day's hike at Nannycatch Beck, overlooking the Ennerdale valley. Return to the hotel for dinner.
Accommodation: Moresby Hall
Activity: 7 hours/12.5 miles hiking with 2,180' elevation gain
Transportation: 40-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lakeland Trails from Ennerdale to Honister
Day 3
Head back to Ennerdale Water, where today's picturesque hike begins. Set off on a lakeside trail to Ennerdale Forest, gradually ascending up the valley and into the heart of the hills. Arrive at Black Sail Hut, a remote youth hostel, for a picnic lunch. From the hut, the trail climbs steeply up alongside Loft Beck stream. It's a short but tough ascent that's rewarded with epic views back down to Ennerdale. Descend to Honister Slate Mine and transfer to your luxurious lakeside hotel in the gorgeous village of Glenridding.
Accommodation: The Inn on the Lake-Glenridding, England Accommodation: The Ullswater Inn
Activity: 7-8 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,820' elevation gain
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow in the Footsteps of William Wordsworth
Day 4
Explore the heart of the Lake District National Park, starting from the home of one of England's most revered poets, William Wordsworth. Visit Dove Cottage to learn about Wordsworth's life and love of the Lakes before taking to the hills. Hike a high pass up and over Grisedale Hause, then down into craggy Grisedale Valley. Enjoy superb views of Ullswater on the final stretch of the hike which ends at the door of your hotel in Glenridding. Take the opportunity to browse the local village shops, or grab a pint of ale at the hiker's bar.
Accommodation: The Inn on the Lake-Glenridding, England Accommodation: The Ullswater Inn
Activity: 5 hours/9 miles hiking with 1,795' elevation gain
Transportation: 40-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike from Shap to Ravenstonedale
Day 5
After breakfast, set off for the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park, known for its rolling flower-filled meadows and miles of traditional stone walls. Stop for lunch in the little village of Orton and visit a family-run village chocolate shop. Then continue hiking east across the moors before descending to the charming village of Ravenstonedale, your base for the next two nights.
Accommodation: Kings Head Hotel Accommodation: The Black Swan-Ravenstonedale, England
Activity: 8 hours/15 miles hiking with 1,005' elevation gain
Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Trails from Ravenstonedale to Muker
Day 6
Today you'll cross the spine of England and reach the halfway point of the trip! Set out on foot from Ravenstonedale to the market town of Kirkby Stephen, crossing fields and stiles along the way. After lunch, transfer across the Pennine Hills to the pretty hamlet of Keld. From here, you'll continue to Swaledale Valley, one of the most picturesque areas of the Yorkshire Dales, and follow a winding river fringed by wildflowers. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the village of Muker before transferring back to Ravestonedale via the infamous Buttertubs Pass.
Accommodation: Kings Head Hotel Accommodation: The Black Swan-Ravenstonedale, England
Activity: 5 hours/9 miles hiking with 615' elevation gain
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Across the Moors to Blakey Ridge
Day 7
Rise for a journey across the Vale of Mowbray to North Yorks Moors National Park, famous for its windswept heather-clad moorland. Traverse several low hilltops, ascending and descending along a stage whimsically known as the 'rollercoaster.' Then follow a historic railway track through the wild landscapes of the moor to Blakey Ridge. Reward your efforts with a drink at the Lion Inn, a 16th-century tavern located at the highest point on the Yorkshire Moors. Return to your hotel in the village of Goathland.
Accommodation: The Mallyan Spout Hotel-Goathland, England
Activity: 7-8 hours/12 miles hiking with 1,670' elevation gain
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Moorland Hike to Grosmont & Steam Railway Ride
Day 8
Beginning from a high point on Blakey Ridge, set out across the moor and descend into the wonderfullyn- named dale of Great Fryup. Head for the village of Glaisdale and Beggar's Bridge, which was built in 1619. At Grosmont, jump aboard a heritage steam railway and enjoy a short ride through beautiful scenery to Goathland Station, which has featured in many TV shows and films including Harry Potter. After the ride, walk up through the pretty village directly back to your hotel. Enjoy an evening at your leisure.
Accommodation: The Mallyan Spout Hotel-Goathland, England
Activity: 6-7 hours/12 miles hiking with 265' elevation gain
Transportation: 40-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Final Leg from Littlebeck to Robin Hood's Bay
Day 9
Your last hike starts at Littlebeck, where gorgeous woodland trails lead to the waterfall of Falling Foss. From here, strike out for the coast — just a few miles away — and follow a trail above beautiful cliffs with sweeping sea views. Reach the delightful village of Robin Hood's Bay and hike down to the water's edge, where you can dip your toes in the North Sea. Celebrate your coast to coast hike with a drink at the Bay Hotel Bar and enjoy a fun farewell meal tonight.
Accommodation: The Victoria Hotel-Robin Hood, England Accommodation: Raven Hall Hotel
Activity: 7 hours/12 miles hiking with 935' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head to York & Depart
Day 10
After a relaxed final breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to Robin Hood's Bay and transfer to the railway station in York where the trip ends.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Dan M.
Dan lives in the English Lake District where he regularly climbs the local crags and fells, paddles the rivers and cycles the trails. He has lived in the Highlands of Scotland, which is his spiritual home and the land of his ancestors. He has travelled extensively on every continent except the Poles, one day perhaps!. When not guiding for MT Sobek he will be plotting his next ski trip to Norway or climbing trip to the Alps.
Jamie P.
Jamie is a MT Sobek guide who has taken his passion for the outdoors all over the world! Guiding across open seas and high peaks he leads kayaking, climbing, and hiking in a range of environments. Growing up with the Peak district on his doorstep has shaped a special connection to the countryside especially within Northern England. When he’s not guiding for MT Sobek he’s on his own adventures and could be anywhere.
Jeremy M.
Jeremy is a top MT Sobek guide, who loves exploring wild places the world over! As well as guiding in his home country of New Zealand for over 15 years, Jeremy leads intrepid adventures in England, Scotland, and Ireland. He has a special passion for summer walks in England, leading England Coast to Coast Hiking and Village to Village Hiking in the Cotswolds. When he's not guiding for MT Sobek, Jeremy enjoys examining maps, planning adventures, and working with school groups near his home in Herefordshire, England.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. Moderate to difficult hiking on gently rolling terrain for 7-8 hours (11 to 15 miles) most days, on terrain that can be uneven, rough and boggy. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
7 hours/12.5 miles hiking with 2,180' elevation gain
Day 3
7-8 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,820' elevation gain
Day 4
5 hours/9 miles hiking with 1,795' elevation gain
Day 5
8 hours/15 miles hiking with 1,005' elevation gain
Day 6
5 hours/9 miles hiking with 615' elevation gain
Day 7
7-8 hours/12 miles hiking with 1,670' elevation gain
Day 8
6-7 hours/12 miles hiking with 265' elevation gain
Day 9
7 hours/12 miles hiking with 935' elevation gain
Accommodations
Award-winning hotels with traditional English charm located in scenic villages. Includes the famous Victoria Hotel in Robin Hood's Bay.
The King's Head, Ravenstonedale, Cumbria is located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Ravenstonedale is an area of outstanding natural beauty at the foot of the Howgill Fells. Refined, individually decorated rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, 24-hour room service, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. There's no air-conditioning. Parking is complimentary. A traditional restaurant offers terrace dining, and there's also a cozy bar.
The Inn on the Lake is an award-winning 4-star hotel, spectacularly situated on the shore of Ullswater. Its 48 en-suite rooms are beautifully appointed and come with modern amenities. Stroll through the hotel's manicured grounds, enjoying sweeping views of the lake, then have a drink at the Rambler's Bar or dinner at the onsite restaurant.
Experience the tranquility of the Eden Valley at the award-winning Black Swan, a traditional village hotel in the heart of Ravenstonedale. Its well-appointed rooms come with classic touches, comfortable beds, and en-suite baths. Enjoy the hotel's riverside pub garden and restaurant, where dishes are freshly made from local produce.
The Mallyan Spout Hotel is a charming 3-star country hotel, located in the village of Goathland near Whitby. Each of its rooms has a unique feel, but all come with cozy beds, comfortable seating areas, and modern amenities. Grab a drink at the splendid Spout Bar or enjoy a hearty meal at the hotel's Valley View Restaurant.
The landmark Victoria Hotel is exquisitely perched at the top of Robin Hood's Bay on the North Yorkshire Heritage Coast. With panoramic sea views, comfortable rooms, and an excellent restaurant serving meals made with fresh local fare, this is the perfect end point to your adventure.
Experience 5-star grandeur at magnificent Moresby Hall, a 16th-century historical building and award-winning country guesthouse. Its sumptuous rooms come with modern amenities and a regal flair. Enjoy traditional English and Cumbrian fare at the hotel's onsite restaurant and delight in a truly warm welcome from friendly staff.
In a traditional stone building overlooking Ullswater Lake, this relaxed hotel is a 3.6-mile walk from Helvellyn (a mountain peak) and 13.7 miles from central Penrith. Elegant rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Dining options include an upmarket restaurant, a casual bistro, and a cozy bar serving classic pub food, plus a cafe offering afternoon tea. Other features include an indoor pool, a sauna, and a library with a snooker table.
Located in Ravenscar in the heart of North York Moors National Park, the Raven Hall is an excellent country hotel that is conveniently located along the trail from Scarborough to Whitby. This comfortable hotel offers 54 suites, with extensive amenities including panoramic views of the Alps, a heated swimming pool and afternoon tea.
Weather
The weather in the north of England is constantly changing. It is often cool, wet and windy, but be prepared for sunshine too.
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Penrith
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Penrith
59
42
64
47
67
51
66
50
61
47
Ravenstonedale
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Ravenstonedale
57
43
62
47
65
51
64
51
60
47
York
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
York
61
44
66
49
70
53
69
52
64
49
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
You will need to travel to the trip's starting point on your own. Plan to arrive in Penrith on the edge of the Lake District, where you'll meet your guides and fellow travelers at the train station.
Can I wear hiking shoes or cross-trainers, or do I need hiking boots?
The best footwear for this trip are water-proof, lightweight hiking boots. Ankle support is a good idea on wet, slippery terrain.
Can I skip a day of hiking on this trip?
Yes. If we are staying in the same hotel, you may simply relax at the hotel and explore the nearby villages. When we are changing hotels, you would ride with our guide in the minibus.
Will I need to purchase much equipment for this trip?
You will want to have a daypack large enough to carry your warm, rainproof layers; a packed lunch; drinking water; and personal belongings (phone, wallet, keys.) We also recommend trekking poles for support and balance.
Do I need to train for this trip?
You'll be hiking up to 15 miles in a single day on challenging terrain. We recommend that you arrive with boots that have been well broken in from your previous hikes, and that you are fit and ready for the experience.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
What is the best time of year to hike England Coast to Coast?
The best time to hike the England Coast to Coast trail is typically during the late spring to early autumn months, from April to October, when the weather is relatively mild and the trail is at its most accessible and picturesque. MT Sobek offers England Coast to Coast tour dates from April to October.
How scenic is England Coast to Coast?
The England Coast to Coast trail is exceptionally scenic, offering a diverse tapestry of landscapes including rolling countryside, picturesque villages, heather-clad moors, and stunning mountain vistas. It traverses through three national parks, showcasing some of the finest scenery England has to offer.
What is the hardest part of England Coast to Coast?
The hardest part of the England Coast to Coast hike is often considered to be the stretch across the Lake District National Park, particularly the ascent and descent of the rugged fells, which can be physically demanding. This trip is rated at Level 4 as there are multiple consecutive days of hiking and guests should also be prepared for varied weather conditions, including rain.
