Coast to Coast Walk

Description

The Coast to Coast Walk, also known as C2C, is a long-distance footpath in Northern England. Devised by renowned British fell walker, guidebook author, and illustrator Alfred Wainwright, the walk stretches approximately 182 miles (293 km) from St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire, crossing through three national parks: the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the North York Moors National Park.
The walk begins at St Bees on the Irish Sea coast, a small seaside village known for its historic school and stunning cliffs. Here, walkers often participate in the tradition of dipping their boots in the sea before setting off. From St Bees, the trail heads eastwards, across the coastal plain and into the Lake District.
The Lake District is England's largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a region of stunning beauty, characterized by its rugged fells, deep valleys, and numerous lakes. The walk takes in some of the district's most iconic scenery, including the peaks of the High Stile ridge and the Hay Stacks, the tranquil beauty of Grasmere, and the dramatic ridgeline of Helvellyn. This section of the walk is strenuous, with plenty of steep ascents and descents, but the rewards are immense, with breathtaking views and a sense of solitude and tranquility that is hard to match.
From the Lake District, the trail descends into the Eden Valley, a picturesque region of rolling farmland, charming villages, and historic market towns. The walk passes through the town of Kirkby Stephen, a popular stopover point with a good range of accommodation and amenities. This section of the walk is generally easier going, but still offers plenty of interest, with highlights including the ancient stone circles of Long Meg and her Daughters and the impressive viaduct at Smardale.
The walk then enters the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a region known for its distinctive landscape of high moorland, limestone pavements, and deep valleys or 'dales'. The trail follows the Swale River through the picturesque villages of Muker and Keld, and over the high moorland of Nine Standards Rigg, before descending into the bustling market town of Richmond. This section of the walk is rich in history and heritage, with numerous castles, abbeys, and historic sites to explore.
The final stretch of the walk takes in the North York Moors National Park, a vast expanse of heather moorland, punctuated by deep valleys, or 'dales', and charming villages. The trail follows the course of the River Esk, taking in the beautiful Esk Valley and the dramatic cliffs of the North Sea coast. The walk ends at Robin Hood's Bay, a picturesque fishing village with a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, where walkers often celebrate their achievement by dipping their boots in the North Sea.
The Coast to Coast Walk is a challenging but rewarding journey, offering a diverse range of landscapes, from the rugged mountains of the Lake District to the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales and the dramatic moorland of the North York Moors. The walk is not waymarked, which adds to the sense of adventure, but a good range of guidebooks and maps are available to help with navigation.
Accommodation along the route is varied, with options ranging from campsites and youth hostels to bed and breakfasts and hotels. Many walkers choose to use a baggage transfer service, which allows them to enjoy the walk with just a daypack. There are also numerous pubs, cafes, and shops along the route, providing plenty of opportunities for rest and refreshment.
The Coast to Coast Walk is a journey of discovery, offering a unique opportunity to explore some of England's most beautiful and varied landscapes. Whether undertaken as a personal challenge, a way to experience the great outdoors, or simply to enjoy the sense of peace and tranquility that comes from long-distance walking, it is a journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
In conclusion, the Coast to Coast Walk is more than just a long-distance footpath; it is a journey through the heart of Northern England, a celebration of the country's diverse landscapes and rich heritage, and a testament to the enduring appeal of the great outdoors. Whether you're an experienced long-distance walker or a novice looking for a challenge, the Coast to Coast Walk offers an unforgettable experience and the chance to see England in a new light.

Things to do near Coast to Coast Walk

Visit the Village of St. Bees: This is the starting point of the Coast to Coast Walk. You can explore the village, visit St. Bees Priory, or relax on St. Bees beach.
Explore the Lake District National Park: This national park is home to stunning landscapes, mountains, and lakes. You can enjoy hiking, boating, and wildlife watching.
Visit Richmond Castle: Located in the town of Richmond, this is one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain. The castle offers stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales.
Explore the North York Moors National Park: This national park is known for its heather moorland, pine forests, and rugged coastline. It offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, and bird watching.
Visit Robin Hood's Bay: This is the end point of the Coast to Coast Walk. You can explore the charming fishing village, visit the Old Coastguard Station, or relax on the beach.