A Guide to Walk from Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay
The Cleveland Way is a gorgeous coastal path that takes you on a picturesque 7 mile walk to the quaint fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay.
The Cleveland Way follows the North Sea coast line in North Yorkshire.
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After completing this hike multiple times, I can confidently say that this is one of the most beautiful hikes in England. I would recommend this trail to anyone wanting to experience the gorgeous rural coastal landscape of Northern England.
How far is Robin Hood's Bay from Whitby on the Cleveland Way?
The distance between Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay is around 7 miles. The walk typically takes around 2 - 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make along the way. This section of the Cleveland Way offers a blend of coastal paths, rugged cliffs, and picturesque bays.
Overlooking the cliffside views on the Yorkshire Coast.
How to Get to Whitby, England
Whitby is easily accessible by public transport by either bus or train.Coming from Leeds, the easiest way for me was to take the train to Scarborough and then the bus (X93 and X94) to Whitby.
Alternatively, you can drive to Whitby via the A171 road from the A1 motorway, enjoying scenic views as you approach the coast.
Insider Tip: If this is your first time traveling in England, I highly recommend using the Trainline app for easy planning and discounted rates.
Where to Stay in Whitby, England
If you are staying in Whitby the night before, I recommend checking out either of these options:
The YHA Whitby: The trailhead is right on the steps of the YHA, making it the perfect location to start your adventure.
The Dolphin Hotel: This is another fantastic location and they offer breakfast included, which is a great way to start your hike.
The 199 Steps, also known as Jacob’s Ladder, provide gorgeous views of Whitby.
Getting on the Trail:
The trailhead starts very close to the Whitby Abbey. Follow the path signs that lead you out of town, up the 199 steps, and onto the clifftop trails.
Depending on what time of year you plan this hike, I would recommend starting at the crack of dawn at a chance to experience this breathtaking sight. Sunrises on the North Sea are super magical.
A beautiful sunrise to start your day hiking the Cleveland Way.
Whitby to Saltwick Bay
As you leave Whitby, you’ll quickly find yourself walking along the clifftops with stunning panoramic views of the North Sea. The path descends slowly towards Saltwick Bay, a beautiful spot where you will find the old Saltwick Nab lighthouse and the remnants of the Saltwick Jet Works.
Saltwick Nab lighthouse, Whitby, England
Saltwick Bay to Robin Hood’s Bay
Continuing along the trail from Saltwick Bay, you’ll follow the coastal path through farmer’s fields and overlooking dramatic cliffs and shorelines below, directly to Robin Hood’s Bay. As you get closer to the village, you’ll start to see the charming houses and buildings in the distance. The path gradually descends into the village, leading you down the hill and eventually to the beach. Once at the beach, you’ll find the iconic Bay Hotel, a perfect spot to rest and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
Overlooking the sleepy fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay from the Cleveland Way.
Robin Hood’s Bay and its cobbled alleyways is brimful of nooks and crannies to explore.
Arriving in Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay is a picturesque fishing village that used to be a famous smuggler’s port. The narrow, winding streets, traditional cottages, and sandy bay create a delightful atmosphere. Once you arrive, take some time to explore the village, visit the local shops and cafes, and enjoy the beach. It’s the perfect place to unwind after your walk.
You can almost feel the history come alive as you explore the windy, narrow streets.
The Bay Hotel is an iconic landmark in Robin Hood’s Bay, a traditional pub overlooking the coastline.
Boggle Hole
Just a short walk from Robin Hood’s Bay, you will find Boggle Hole, a spot known as a great swimming location and stunning natural beauty. To get there from Robin Hood's Bay you can take a leisurely stroll along the beach to Boggle Hole.
The Yorkshire Coast, particularly around Whitby is known for the abundance of fossils that can be found here. Sometimes known as “the Dinosaur Coast” (not to be confused with the Jurassic Coast which is found in the south of England), you can find ammonites and other such fossils along its cliffs.
Fossils can be found along the Yorkshire coastline, this one was found just outside of Boggle Hole.
Getting Back to Whitby
After enjoying your time in Robin Hood’s Bay, you have a couple of options for returning to Whitby. If you’re up for more coastal scenery, you can retrace your steps and walk back along the same Cleveland Way trail. For a quicker return, you can catch a bus from Robin Hood’s Bay back to Whitby. The local bus service runs regularly and offers a way to rest your legs while still taking in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.
Tips to Walk from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay
Footwear: Make sure you bring sturdy walking boots, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy.
Weather: Check the weather forecast before you set out. Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes and always pack your waterproofs. This trail is not recommended when there is ice or snow on the path as it is not safe under these conditions.
Navigation: While the Cleveland Way is well-marked, carrying a map or a GPS device is always a good idea.
Refreshments: There are several places to eat and drink in Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay, but there are limited options along the trail. Consider bringing snacks and water with you.
Safety: Be cautious on cliff edges and respect any warning signs. The coastal path can be exposed to strong winds and changing tides.
