Best Sections of England’s Coast to Coast Trail

Early in the walk, the charming village of Ennerdale Bridge sets the tone for the picture-postcard pretty Lakeland hamlets that you’ll encounter. From its idyllic, unspoilt location spanning the River Ehen you can explore a quiet valley and trek around Ennerdale Water, one of the less-visited and quieter lakes in the region.

At the end of the lake is a wonderful ascent to YHA Black Sail, a superbly isolated bothy that offers brilliant views of some of the surrounding big peaks.

An alternative ascent takes you up a series of steep inclines to the summits of Red Pike, High Stile and Haystacks, Wainwright’s personal favourite. From their heights, hikers bask in breathtaking views of Buttermere to the north and Great Gable and Pillar to the south, if the weather plays ball.

As you emerge from the clinging embrace of the peat bogs, you enter Swaledale. The most northerly dale of Yorkshire’s Dales is often recognised as being one of the loveliest. Moving towards Reeth, wander the narrow streets of quintessential Yorkshire villages tucked amongst mine-scarred valleys and ringed by dry-stone walls.

Pheasant and grouse live amongst the heather, so keep your eyes out for these ground birds on your walk. As this area once saw heavy mining, you might stumble on evidence of historic lead mining activities.

Follow the trickling becks (that’s Northern English for a stream) and walk under the canopy of thick woodlands. There are also lovely stretches of woodland on the walk from Reeth to Richmond, with a couple of attractive villages along the way, bringing your adventure in the Dales to a close.

From the heather-coated heathland to the North Sea cliff tops, the North York Moors is a region sporting a wide variety of terrains. The Coast to Coast route from Clay Bank Top to Blakey Ridge is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Northern England’s most epic wild expanses. 

If the weather is good, it is a wonderful ramble with expansive views. Enjoy the rollercoaster hills and the fascinating disused Rosedale Ironstone Railway.

Finish your walk with a stop at the remote Lion Inn, the fourth-highest inn in Britain and one of the most characterful on the Coast to Coast route.