Cloughton: Trails, Nature and History

During a stay in Cloughton, you can explore named walking routes, the Cinder Track, which is intended for pedestrians and cyclists, and the area’s natural and architectural history. Nearby Hayburn Wyke adds a rocky cove, a waterfall and mixed woodland to the area’s attractions.

Walking Routes Around Cloughton

The Cloughton and Hayburn Wyke Walk is a 5-mile circular route that starts and ends at Cloughton railway station. The Coast and Forest Circular is considerably longer at 32.4 miles (52.1 km) and is classified as moderate. It includes a stop at the old railway station tea rooms in Cloughton. If you plan to walk the circular route, check the latest route details in advance, as they may change.

Cycling on the Cinder Track

The traffic-free Cinder Track is a route for walkers and cyclists and forms Route 1 of the National Cycle Network. Leaving Cloughton, the Cinder Track enters the North York Moors National Park. The surface shows signs of erosion on the section between Scalby and Cloughton. Check the path conditions for this section before your ride.

Hayburn Wyke: Cove, Woodland and Wildlife

Near Cloughton, Hayburn Wyke can be reached via the Cleveland Way or by footpaths north or south of the Hayburn Wyke Inn. Hayburn Wyke extends to a rocky cove with a waterfall and large boulders. The mixed woodland is frequented by deer, foxes and badgers. A stay in the area therefore offers the chance to experience both a distinctive landscape and local wildlife.

Church and Architectural History

The present-day St Mary’s Church was built following a reconstruction that began in January 1832, after the roof of the earlier chapel collapsed. Architectural features include a western bellcote, a five-bay nave and a continuous chancel. The church is accessible via a side gate; a path along the wall and a ramp lead to the entrance.

The dovecote at Cloughton Hall dates from the 17th century. It has a circular floor plan measuring 4 m in diameter and a domed roof. It is thought to be the only circular, multi-storey dovecote in the United Kingdom.

Another archaeological feature is the Cross Dyke in Cloughton Plantations. Unusually, it crosses two ridges of land spurs separated by a small valley. The Cross Dyke is designated as a Scheduled Monument; it is thought to have served as a territorial boundary.

Getting There by Bus

Arriva bus routes X93 and X94 stop at the Playing Fields stop on High Street, near St Mary’s Community Hall. Check the latest travel information before your journey.

Discover more destinations: Redcar, Carnforth, Battersby, Sandsend, Thornton-le-Moor, Robin Hood's Bay, Thixendale, Stokesley

For the main travel overview: North Yorkshire.