Coast to Coast Walk

Information

Distance

306.0 km

Duration

12–21 days

Max elevation

780 m

Country

United Kingdom (GB)

Difficulty

Moderate to challenging — varied hilly terrain, partly boggy, no special techniques but long and stamina-demanding

Best Season

May–September (an alternative winter route is available December–April)

Permits & Fees

No permit required; the route follows public rights of way, permissive paths, and access land. It officially became a National Trail in March 2026.

Description

The Coast to Coast Walk is an approximately 306 km (190 mile) long-distance footpath across Northern England, devised by the legendary fellwalker Alfred Wainwright and described in his 1973 book. It links two coasts — from St Bees on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood's Bay on the North Sea — while crossing three national parks: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors. Most walkers complete it in 12–14 days following Wainwright's suggested stages, with the high point at Kidsty Pike (780 m). Though it requires no technical skills, the distance, hilly terrain, and changeable English weather make it a serious test of stamina. The route was officially designated a National Trail in March 2026.

Trail Highlights

Stretching from the Irish Sea coast at St Bees to the North Sea at Robin Hood's Bay, crossing three national parks: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors. The highest point is Kidsty Pike (780 m). A tradition of dipping your boots in the western sea at the start and the eastern sea at the finish.