Robin Hood’s Bay to Ravenscar Circular Walk

Robin Hood’s Bay to Ravenscar: A Coastal Walk with Cliffs, Woodland and Seal-Spotting

If you want a walk with classic Yorkshire coast views, the route from Robin Hood’s Bay to Ravenscar is a great choice. It starts on the Cleveland Way, follows dramatic cliff-top paths, passes through quiet farmland and woodland, and finishes with a wild beach walk.

This walk offers a lot of variety, from wide sea views and rocky sections to the chance to see seals on the shore. Be sure to check the tide times, as you can only do this route safely at low tide.

Starting in Robin Hood’s Bay

The walk starts at Robin Hood’s Bay, a charming village on the Yorkshire Coast. From the trailhead, the Cleveland Way takes you up above the cliffs, where you soon get wide views over the North Sea.

The path goes through coastal farmland and woodland, passing Boggle Hole on the way to Ravenscar. This part offers a nice mix of sea air, green fields, and shaded woodland, with lots of good spots for photos.

From Ravenscar Back Along the Beach

At Ravenscar, the route goes down to the beach and then heads back to Robin Hood’s Bay across sand, rocks, and shoreline. This part feels more rugged and remote, so take your time and be careful, especially on uneven or slippery rocks.

Walking back along the beach is a highlight of the route, but it’s also the part that needs the most planning.

Important Tide Safety

You should only do this walk at low tide. When the tide comes in, the beach sections are blocked, and since you’ll be below high cliffs, there may be no safe way out once the water rises.

Check the tide times before you start, give yourself enough time for the return, and don’t continue if the tide is already rising.

It’s also important to keep away from the base of the cliffs when you can. The coastline is affected by erosion, and loose rocks or debris can fall suddenly.

Look Out for Seals

A highlight of this walk is seeing the seal colony at Ravenscar. It’s a special experience, but please keep your distance from the seals.

Stay back, move quietly on the rocks, and try not to startle the seals as you walk along the shore. Watching from a distance is the best way to enjoy them and keep them safe.

What to Know Before You Go

The trail can get muddy and slippery when it’s wet, so it’s best to wear sturdy walking shoes or boots. Some parts are steep and rough, so go slowly and be extra careful there.

You can park at Robin Hood’s Bay, where there’s two pay-and-display car parks. After your walk, there are lots of places in the village for a drink, snack, or meal.

Final Thoughts

The Robin Hood’s Bay to Ravenscar circular walk is a great coastal adventure with cliff-top views, woodland paths, rocky shoreline, and wildlife. With good shoes, careful tide planning, and respect for wildlife, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy this part of the Yorkshire Coast.

Route Map