The best walks and hikes around Ellerby

Ellerby offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 160 routes available. These trails explore the dramatic coastline, picturesque villages, and expansive moorland of the North York Moors National Park.

Yes, Ellerby has numerous options for less strenuous walks. There are over 50 easy routes available, perfect for a relaxed stroll. An example of an easy route is the Steps at Rosedale Wyke – View of Port Mulgrave loop from Hinderwell, which is just over 5.5 km long.

Hiking around Ellerby offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter dramatic cliff-top paths with expansive views of the North Sea, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages like Runswick Bay and Staithes. Inland, the trails extend into the vast heather moorland and ancient woodlands of the North York Moors National Park.

Many of the easier trails around Ellerby are suitable for families. The region's beaches, like Runswick Bay Beach, offer sheltered bays and rock pools, which are great for children. Look for routes marked as 'easy' on komoot for suitable options.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Ellerby, but it's important to keep them on a lead, especially when walking near livestock or along cliff edges for safety. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or protected areas within the North York Moors National Park.

Yes, many of the trails around Ellerby are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate circular route is the View of Port Mulgrave – Staithes Fishing Village loop from Hinderwell, which explores the coastal scenery and the historic village of Staithes.

The area is rich in natural and historical attractions. Along the coast, you can explore the picturesque Staithes Fishing Village, or climb the famous 199 Steps in Whitby to reach St Mary's Church and Whitby Abbey. Other points of interest include the Kettleness Alum Quarry, offering great views, and the historic Whitby Harbour.

Public transport options exist, primarily bus services connecting Ellerby to larger towns like Whitby and Middlesbrough, which can then link to coastal villages and some trailheads. For specific routes and timings, it's best to check local bus schedules, especially for services reaching more remote parts of the North York Moors National Park.

Parking is generally available in the villages and popular coastal spots near Ellerby, such as Runswick Bay and Staithes. Many trailheads, especially those starting from these villages, will have designated car parks. Some may be pay-and-display, so it's advisable to carry change or check for app-based payment options.

The trails around Ellerby are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the charm of the fishing villages, and the diverse terrain that ranges from challenging cliff walks to peaceful moorland paths.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Ellerby offers several difficult routes, totaling 16 in number. A notable long-distance option is the Runswick Bay – Whitby Harbour loop from Hinderwell, which spans over 27 km and takes approximately 7.5 hours to complete, featuring dramatic coastline and significant elevation changes.

The best time to hike around Ellerby is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the moorland heather is in bloom, offering spectacular colours. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures ideal for longer walks, though coastal paths can be windy year-round.

Absolutely. The cliff-top sections of the Cleveland Way National Trail offer continuous breathtaking views of the North Sea. Specific highlights include the panoramic vistas from the Kettleness Alum Quarry and the stunning outlooks over Runswick Bay and Staithes from the surrounding paths.