Did you know there are 14 National Trails in England?
Dock Cottage sits right on the end of one of the most famous of them all – the Coast to Coast Walk.
Just along from Dock Cottage you’ll find the Cleveland Way, North Yorkshire’s very own National Trail. First opened in 1969, it runs for 109 miles (175km) from the market town of Helmsley all the way to Filey. Filey is the only place in England where three National Trails meet: the Cleveland Way, the Yorkshire Wolds Way, and the England Coast Path.
This National trail showcases some of the very best scenery in North Yorkshire. It weaves through the North York Moors National Park, crossing purple heather moorland inland before hugging the dramatic cliffs of the Yorkshire coast.
Walking the Cleveland Way is achievable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. There are challenging parts, especially across the Cleveland Hills and parts of the coastal path. The route is clearly signposted, though an up-to-date map or GPS is always a good idea.
You can enjoy the Cleveland Way year-round, each season bringing something different. That said, late August and early September are particularly spectacular, when the moors burst into colour with blooming heather.
Most walkers choose to follow the path clockwise from Helmsley to Filey, with the wind often at their backs. But there’s no set rule, plenty of people take it the other way and enjoy it just as much.
Walking-friendly stays at Dock Cottage
If you’re tackling the Cleveland Way, or finishing the Coast to Coast, Dock Cottage makes the perfect stopover – we’ve even been awarded the Walking Friendly Award by the North York Moors National Park.
Muddy boots? No problem – there’s space in the hall or kitchen to leave them.
Need to dry clothes? A drying rack is ready and waiting.
Arriving by bus? The Coastliner stops at the top of the village (Thorpe Lane), and from there it’s a downhill walk straight to the cottage.
Finishing the Coast to Coast? You’ll find us literally on the finish line
Inside the cottage you’ll also find:
Local bus timetables, taxi numbers and bike hire info
Dog bowls and free poo bags
Maps and walking guides to help you plan walks in the area
Being self-catering, it’s easy to prep packed lunches, and the local shop (Muir Lea) has everything you’ll need. If you’d rather put your feet up, Dock Cottage is only steps from independent pubs, bistros, and cafés, all which do excellent food.
Exploring the area
Staying a few days? Why not try some of the shorter circular routes linked to the Cleveland Way (listed on the National Trails website). If you fancy mixing things up, you could:
Take a wine tour at Robin Hood’s Bay Vineyard
Visit Whitby Abbey
Pop into the village museum and learn about Robin Hood’s Bay’s smuggling past
When to visit
Dock Cottage is welcoming all year round, but April, May, June, September and October are especially wonderful for walking – think vibrant spring flowers, autumn colours, and dramatic coastal sunrises.
Why stay at Dock Cottage?
Right on the Cleveland Way
At the finish line of the Coast to Coast
Dog-friendly (with sea views for them too)
Sea views from every room
Private parking – rare in the village
You can find more about the Cleveland Way and other National Trails on the official website, whether you’re planning a short stroll or a multi-day hike it has all the information you need.
