5 great outdoor walks in Scarborough and Ryedale
Here’s five recommended walks in and around Scarborough and Ryedale which are perfect for the next time you’re planning a stroll out with an older friend or family member.
Getting out for a walk is not only great for your physical health but, with the added bonus of Vitamin D and a bit of that fresh Yorkshire air, walking also does wonders for our mental health as well.
We’re lucky to have so many fantastic walks in stunning locations right on our doorstep. Whether it’s a coastal wander along the cliffs of our North Yorkshire Coast near Filey or, hiking a part of the famous Cleveland Way from Helmsley. There’s plenty to do for all abilities so, grab your boots and let’s get walking!
Flamborough Head Circular Walk
A fine route especially on a sunny day. The Flamborough Head Circular Walk is a 3.9km loop trail near Sowerby, which takes you on a stroll along the tops of one of Britains finest chalk cliffs.
This is a wonderful walk where you can really appreciate how stunning the North Yorkshire Coast near Scarborough is. On a fine day it’s almost like you have been transported to a warmer climate with it’s clear calm turquoise seas. If you’re lucky you may even spot some seals bobbing their heads up off the coast!
Flamborough Head is a place for all to enjoy. The terrain is pretty easy going, following clear grassy paths and there are no stiles or livestock on the route. You can grab a well-deserved coffee at the Cliff End Café when you’ve finished the walk and are ready to head back to your car at the Flamborough Lighthouse.
You can find further information on this route, by clicking the link here.
Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey
This well-trodden route, famous for being the first leg of the Cleveland Way National Trust Trail, starts at the picturesque market town of Helmsley and returns via a trip to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey.
Before starting this walk, be sure to stock up on walking supplies. A real favourite amongst locals is Hunters of Helmsley, which does a fine selection of baked good including sausage rolls and pork pies, which are sure to be enough to fuel your afternoon out!
Following in the footsteps of medieval monks, this short walk is great for history buffs and nature lovers a like. There is a large car parking area at Helmsley Castle and plenty of food and drink options in Helmsley to explore before commencing your walk. When you arrive at Rievaulx Abbey, you will find their New Tearooms and facilities available to use, without having to purchase a ticket to enter the abbey.
To enjoy this 10km out and back walk, please view route details, by clicking here.
Runswick Bay
Following a small section of the famous Cleveland Way National Trail, from Helmsley to Filey, this pleasant coastal walk takes you along the Runswick Bay cliff top and offers you some spectacular views over Runswick Bay and Port Mulgrave.
This trail is part of ‘Miles Without Stiles’ a series of easily accessible walking routes, throughout the country, meaning this 2-mile walk is ideal for any older family members or friends who still love to get on their walking boots!
The walk starts at Runswick Bay upper car park and refreshments are available nearby at Cliffemount Hotel and Runswick Bay Hotel. The nearest accessible toilets are at Runswick Bay bottom car park, where there is also a café.
For further details on this route, please click here.
The Castle Trail
If you want a family friendly walk that takes in some of Scarborough’s highlights, this is the one for you. The Castle Trail is a 2.3mile walk, which gives you the opportunity to discover some of Scarborough’s rich history, which is sure to evoke some fond memories for some of our older walkers!
Starting at Dean Road Cemetery and finishing at Scarborough Spa, along this route you will come across Scarborough Monument, John Sheilds Ryall’s Grave, Peasholm Pagodas, Scarborough Castle, St Mary’s Church, Butter Cross, The Grand Hotel Scarborough and Spa Bridge.
The walk is suitable for most, with just a small incline of about 200ft. There are also benches along the way, so take a packed lunch and a flask of tea to enjoy some time relaxing and taking in the views. If you’re short on time, you can mix and match with historical points on this trail, to fit in with your schedule.
To download a detailed map of this walk, please click here.
The Woodland Trail
A walk right in the heart of Scarborough. The Woodland Trail is a steady route over flat terrain making it perfect for those slightly less mobile.
This is a lovely route for a gentle afternoon stroll, which takes in some of Scarborough’s hidden gems. The walk starts with a meander through Peasholme Park, taking in highlights such as The Champion Trees, it’s Lily Pond and Secret Garden. Leaving Peasholme Park, you take the short walk to Jonno’s field to look at the interesting wooden sculptures and admire the brilliant views out to the sea and Scarborough Castle.
The woodland trail is ideal for a quiet afternoon walk out with an elderly loved one. Pack some sandwiches and take advantage of the many seating spots along this enjoyable route.
You can view a map and further details of The Woodland Trail, by clicking here.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll to fill some time during a quiet afternoon or a hike to take up a large chunk of your day, Scarborough and Ryedale offers a full catalogue of fun outdoor walks, suitable for all different ages and physical abilities. We hope some of our suggestions above encourage you to get out there and enjoy some of the stunning places, we are lucky enough to have right on our doorstep.