Overview
The coast-to-coast journey from the Irish Sea to the North Sea is one of the great hikes of the world. We’ve perfected this classic walk, hiking the most spectacular stretches as we make our way across England’s literary landscapes and through three renowned national parks. We do the hike from west to east, putting the prevailing wind and weather at our backs as we traverse the romantic Lake District, the limestone uplands of the Yorkshire Dales, and the moors of Brontë country. Journey’s end is Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea, where we dip our boots in the water, the traditional celebration of this grand hike. En route, we visit delightful villages and ancient castles, stay at welcoming inns, and savor a pint or two at friendly rural pubs.
This was an exceedingly well designed and well led trip. It is obvious that the leaders are constantly evaluating the quality of their product and modifying it as needed to offer the best experience possible.
— Curtis L., Meadville, PA
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-5
Irish Sea / Lake District National Park
At Ravenglass, we christen our boots in the Irish Sea and collect a pebble to carry with us on the journey, a time-honored coast-to-coast tradition, then start our hike through the Lake District’s famously scenic landscapes of sapphire lakes and craggy peaks. An intricate latticework of granite walls stretches into the distance and a scattering of white farmhouses completes the picture of rural tranquility here. After we visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage in Grasmere, we make the classic Lake District hike over Grisedale Hause, with a descent along the long, blue ribbon of Ullswater, one of England’s most beautiful lakes. Our final Lake District hike brings us over the highest Roman road in England, where we look back at the fells of Lakeland, now arrayed on the western horizon.
Days 6-8
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Entering “James Herriot country,” we cross the watershed of England, with the Lake District behind us and the Yorkshire Dales ahead. Our hikes bring us to Marrick Priory, established in the 12th century for Benedictine nuns, through wooded Yorkshire valleys, and into charming villages along the banks of the River Swale amid meadows and stone barns. In ancient Richmond, poised majestically above the River Swale, we explore narrow, cobbled alleys below a massive Norman castle.
Days 9-12
North York Moors National Park / North Sea
As we hike moorland escarpments, the views are bewitching, with huge billowy clouds and purplish heather-strewn heaths against a patchwork of golds and greens. The dramatic play of light and color can give you the feeling of hiking through an 18th century landscape painting. Following paths to Robin Hood’s Bay, we let the North Sea lap our boots and celebrate the culmination of our hike. On Day 12, depart for Manchester via the medieval city of York.
England Coast to Coast
Highlights
Highlights
Details
11 hiking days on moderate to steep trails, 6-8 hours a day, van support, strenuous hikes in the Lake District
