Some walks need a whole day and a packed lunch.
This one needs a coat and a couple of hours.
Staithes to Runswick Bay is about 3 miles along the Cleveland Way. Allow about an hour each way. It’s the walk we send people on when they ask, “What should we do this morning?”
Straight from the door
Heart Stone Cottage is in the old village, a minute from the path.
No car. No parking. Just lace up and go.
Head up out of the village and turn south along the clifftops.
What you’ll see
Big sea views most of the way.
Port Mulgrave, where the old pier once loaded ironstone. You can still see what’s left of it below the cliff.
Then the path drops down into Runswick Bay – red roofs tumbling down to a sandy bay.
When you get there
Wander down to the beach. Have a sit.
Getting back
Walk back the way you came – the views are different facing north.
Or let the bus do it. The Arriva X4 links Runswick (Hinderwell) and Staithes. Check the timetable before you set off, especially off-season.
Good to know
- There are steep climbs. Good shoes, not flip-flops.
- Keep dogs on leads near the cliff edges. More on bringing the dogs on our dog-friendly page.
- If you want to walk on Runswick beach, check the tide times first.
- In winter the light goes early. Set off in the morning.
Then home
Back to the cottage. Kettle on. Fire on.
That’s the whole plan.
Want a longer day? Read Walking the Cleveland Way from Staithes.
Fancy it? See getting here, then check dates and book direct.