Walks in Whitby

Whitby Abbey and the Famous 199 Steps

Start: Bottom of the 199 steps
End: Whitby Abbey

If you’re looking for a short walk, take on the famous 199 steps to Whitby Abbey! This route is one of the most iconic walks in Whitby and offers a blend of history and scenery you won’t want to miss.

It only takes about 5-minutes to reach the top at a steady pace but there are stop points if you want to take little breaks on your way up. Be sure to count your steps as it’s still up for debate to this day how many steps there actually are! As you reach the top, you’ll find yourself at the ancient Whitby Abbey, a structure that inspired Bram Stoker’s gothic novel Dracula. The climb is rewarded with panoramic views over the town and the North Sea.

If you’re unable to climb the steps but still want to take in the incredible views, the Whitby tour bus journeys up to the Abbey daily between March and November.

Mulgrave Woods

Start & End: Mulgrave Woods
Length: Varying

For a change of scenery, head into Mulgrave Woods where ancient ruins and scenic trails make for a memorable woodland walk. Located near Sandsend, the address you’ll need is Mulgrave Estate, Lythe, YO21 3RJ. This destination is ideal for a peaceful day of exploring, especially during spring when bluebells carpet the forest floor.

Meander through lush woodland to the ruins of Mulgrave Castle, a lesser-known treasure that adds a touch of history and mystery. The woods offer a beautiful contrast to the coastal walks in Whitby, giving you a chance to experience North Yorkshire’s varied landscapes.

There are several different routes you can enjoy in Mulgrave Woods. If you’d prefer to follow a trail, there is an easy 3.7 mile walk or a longer 7 mile jaunt. It’s worth noting that the woodland is only open on specific days: Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and is closed for the month of May.

Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay

Start: Bottom of the 199 Steps
End: Robin Hood’s Bay
Length: 6.5 miles

If you’re in search of a more challenging adventure, the Cleveland Way from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay offers a dramatic cliffside trek. This 6.5-mile trail showcases some of the best coastal scenery in North Yorkshire and is a favourite among avid walkers.

As you follow this section of the Cleveland Way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline, stunning cliffs, and the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. It’s one of the best walks in Whitby for those looking to experience the true spirit of Yorkshire’s coast.

Starting in the centre of town, you’ll need to climb the 199 steps up to Whitby Abbey before keeping left and continuing onwards. Don’t worry – you’ll see a sign for the Cleveland Way, so you’ll know you’re on the right track! A few miles into the journey, you’ll walk past Whitby high lighthouse and foghorn station. Continue onwards and as you near Robin Hood’s Bay, the path will narrow between the cliff and the houses before you reach car park and into town.

If you don’t fancy making the journey back once you reach Robin Hood’s Bay, there is a regular bus service which travels back to Whitby.

May Beck and Falling Foss Circular

Start & End: Forestry Commission car park at May Beck
Length: 2 miles

Roughly six miles south of Whitby, you can enjoy a beautiful woodland walk at May Beck. There’s some incredible scenery on offer on this walk, including the magnificent 30-foot Falling Foss waterfall and beautiful May Beck. The waters are shallow enough for a paddle in the summer, and there’s also a quaint tea garden for you and the kids. The distance of this walk makes it best for families and walkers of all ages but it’s worth noting that some of the woodland paths can be uneven and stony.