MARK Ravenscar
Ravenscar sits high above the North Sea on one of the most dramatic headlands in the North York Moors. Known for its rugged cliffs, sweeping coastal views, and a reliable seal colony, it's one of the best coastal walks in northern England.
The full route breakdown — stats, the line in stages, what it really feels like, and the practical detail you need to plan the day.
At a Glance
- Best Season: Year-round
- Terrain: Cliffs, moorland edge, coastal paths, steep descents
The Route
🏔️ Route Character
Ravenscar is a dramatic headland village high above the North Sea, with rugged cliffs, sweeping coastal views, and a reliable grey seal colony below. The Cleveland Way runs along this coast, making it a key section of one of England's best coastal trails.
The terrain is varied but accessible — cliff-top paths, a steep descent to the seal colony, and the superb coastal stretch toward Robin Hood's Bay.
🧰 Route Breakdown
- Option 1 — Ravenscar → Seal Colony · ~4–5 km · 1.5–2 h · Ravenscar village — Follow the coastal path north, descend steeply to the beach flats, reach the seal colony viewing area, and return the same way. The best wildlife route, short and scenic, with huge tourism interest.
- Option 2 — Ravenscar → Robin Hood's Bay (coastal linear) · ~10–12 km · 3–4 h · Ravenscar → Robin Hood's Bay — Follow the Cleveland Way south along dramatic cliff-tops, past Stoupe Brow, finishing in Robin Hood's Bay. One of the best coastal sections in the Moors with strong photography potential.
- Option 3 — Ravenscar Headland Loop · ~4–6 km · 1.5–2 h · Ravenscar village — Explore the headland paths, visit the old industrial remains, walk the cliff-top loop, and return via the moorland edge. Quiet, varied terrain with superb views.
Practical
⚠️ Difficulty & Hazards
- Navigation: Easy — clear coastal paths; still carry a GPX and offline map (fog can drop quickly on the cliffs).
- Terrain: Steep descents to the seal colony, cliff-top paths, moorland edge, muddy sections after rain.
- Wildlife: Keep your distance from seals — they're protected and can be unpredictable.
- Cliffs: Strong winds on the edges; avoid in storms.
- Slippery: The steep descent to the seal colony is slippery in winter.
🌠️ Who This Route Suits
- Families
- Beginners
- Intermediate walkers
- Coastal wildlife and photography lovers
Not ideal for
- Walkers wanting hill or mountain walking — this is a coastal route
📱 Parking & Logistics
- Parking: Ravenscar village (main) or the seasonal National Trust car park.
- Facilities: Limited at Ravenscar; full facilities in Robin Hood's Bay.
- Transport: Limited — best reached by car.
🧰 GPX & Map Notes
On OS Explorer OL27. The Cleveland Way is well-waymarked; a GPX helps on the seal colony descent.
⭐ MX Summary: Ravenscar is one of the most dramatic coastal locations in the North York Moors — rugged cliffs, sweeping views, and a reliable seal colony. Beginner-friendly and photogenic.