Lealholm to Staithes - 2 August 2025

We only have one coastal walk on our programme this year and that was the first walk of the year from Christon Bank to Bamburgh. While this set of walks finish at Staithes on the North Yorkshire coast all the walks start inland not far from Lealholm on the North York Moors. However, two of the walks do get a chance to follow the Cleveland Way along a short stretch of coastline to the east of Staithes.

The three routes all start within a short distance of each other on a minor road leading from Danby and on past Lealholm. The first to start is the 11 mile route that is heading north towards the Danby beacon on then northwards again to pass on the eastern side of Scaling Dam Reservoir. This route then heads eastwards towards the village of Runswick Bay. The village is down in the actual bay and as there is only one way in and out the route stays on top of the cliffs and follows the Cleveland Way around the coast passing Port Mulgrave before coming into Staithes.

Second to start is the 10 mile route that also goes north but passes Scaling Dam Reservoir on the western side. Once past the dam the route stays roughly north all the way and comes into Staithes via Borrowby Dale.

Last to start is the 9 mile route which begins its route over to the east of Lealholm and heads northeast passing through Ellerby and coming towards Runswick Bay from the east. This route then continues on the Cleveland Way and follows the same route as the 11 mile walk into Staithes. 

The 9 mile route has just over 3 miles of coastal walking while the 11 mile route has just over two miles. If you fancy walking a section of North Yorkshire coastline then either of these two routes would suit you. If you fancy more in the way of countryside walking then the 10 mile route is a good choice. Either way if you come out with us you can expect a great day out so get in touch with us from our Contact Page, you can also download the walk descriptions here and the GPS routes here.

The image for this post was taken in September 2015 on the way to Scaling Dam. It does'nt look like a very good day weatherwise back then but just wait for this coming Saturday.