2019 marked the 50th birthday of the Cleveland Way - one of the UK's most loved National Trails. The 109 mile route takes in some of our most stunning scenery and I urge you to follow at least one part of it if you can.
Even if you're not the most hardy of walkers, when you stay at Runswick Bay, just a stroll down the beach means you can claim you have walked a section of the Cleveland Way because the route traverses through the heart of our village.
For more seasoned explorers, using Runswick Bay as a base is a great way to explore two sections of the trail. By walking up the bank towards Staithes - a modest 2-3 miles (3-4km) or South towards Sandsend and Whitby 5 - 7 miles (8-10km) either direction is a fabulous way to see our coastline.
Both routes hug the cliff tops in sections, so much so, that some parts have fallen into the sea in the past, but much conservation work by the North York Moors National Park and local authorities has helped ensure that the routes remain open and safe.
One February half term, we had most unseasonal warm weather and decided to head up Claymoor to show our friends a view of the bay from the top. Following the Cleveland Way marker posts and 3 hours later, we found ourselves at The Hart Inn at Sandsend having a well earned drink and lunch. We enjoyed it so much that the walk with 4 adults, 4 children (all under the age of 10) and Luna the Cockerpoo passed by in no time. A short journey back on the X4 bus to Runswick and a good day out was had by all.
Here is an easy walk, downloadable from the National Trails website.
This handy e-booklet produced by the North York Moors National Park will help with your trip and don't forget to contact me if I can help with your accommodation!