Journal
The Filey to Scarborough Coastal Walk
If there’s one thing that’s readily available in Yorkshire, it’s coastal walks. Far from just views of sandy beaches, these ambling challenges offer a huge range of clifftop views, quaint villages and incredible wildlife.
Filey to Scarborough Coastal Walk
One such journey is the Filey to Scarborough Walk, ticking off key points of interest in Yorkshire along the way. The walk forms part of the larger Cleveland Way National Trail, an incredible 109 miles! Thankfully, this is far easier on the legs at just 10.5, or 17km.
You can take to the clifftops any time of year, but be wary of things like tide times in Filey to avoid slowing down. You may wish to time your walk based on the wildlife you’d like to see!
Whether you’re a regular hiker or a first-time roamer, make it easier with our Filey to Scarborough walking guide…
Details of The Filey to Scarborough Walk
The walk is ideal for everybody with moderate walking abilities and up, so feel free to bring the kids and even pooch. Don’t forget, there are plenty of other coastal walks in Yorkshire, including the Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay Walk.
Start: Centenary Way in Filey town centre
Finish: Scarborough train station
Distance: 10.5 miles (17km)
Time: 4 to 5 hours
Difficulty: Medium – expect heights
Map: Ordnance Survey.
Where Does The Filey to Scarborough Walk Start & End?
The Filey to Scarborough Walk begins on Centenary Way in the seaside town of Filey. You can finish your walk off at Scarborough train station, just a short distance from our Victoria House cottages in Scarborough.
If you’re looking to make the most of the great outdoors, Scarborough Train Station is a 15 minutes’ drive from Forge Valley Woods. Why not uncover the natural beauty of both the coast and country?
If you want to extend your walk a little and adopt part of the Cleveland Way route, you can bolt on Filey Brigg. This vast promontory will stretch your legs as you clamber up the rocks, promising gorgeous clifftop views.
Be warned – you should only start here when the tide is out. There is adequate signposting to help, and you can check Filey Bay tide times here.
Birdwatching in Filey Brigg
If you’re keen to catch some wildlife before you set off, be sure to check your calendar. Filey Brigg is renowned for its seabirds, but different species soar around the Brigg at different times of the year.
- Puffins usually appear between mid-April and mid-July
- Spring is ideal for gannets, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes
- Summer sees the most diverse range of birds, as well as moths and butterflies
- Migrants such as chiffchaffs and whitethroats start to arrive in autumn
- Garden birds may be seen in winter, and gannets start to return in January
- Barn owls are around all year, but are most often seen in late afternoons.
Along all 10 miles of the route, there are plenty of stop-off points and sights to see. Bring your camera and make a note of these ideal rest breaks.
Route Details of the Filey to Scarborough Walk
If you’re starting off in Filey Brigg, bring a coat to help shelter from that fresh sea air! Here you can indulge in a little wildlife spotting before you heading into the town. Fuel your excursion and start your walk right with a refreshment at one of Filey’s many cafés near Centenary Way.
Newbiggin Cliff and North Cliff
Up next, you’ll be on your way to Newbiggin Cliff and North Cliff. There’s nothing like starting your walk off with a challenge, so it’s best to go in this direction rather than finishing with hills! The paths here take you high above sea level, and they’re very close to the edge. Be safe and pay extra attention if you’re with little ones, pets or those who simply don’t like heights.
Cayton Bay
Up next, the sights of Cayton Bay will take your breath away. Stroll through the woodlands or make a pitstop at one of the local eateries such as Lucy’s Beach Shack. You can head down to the shore for a little fossil hunting and even bring the dog along. But first, hike your way up to Lebberston Cliffs to soak in the incredible views.
Scarborough South Cliff Golf Club
Now for something a little different – stop off for a round of 18 holes or just treat yourself to a little Yorkshire hospitality courtesy of Scarborough South Cliff Golf Club. Here you’ll find a course divided into two sections.
The seaward section is visible from the walk, comprising holes four to 10. You can go off-track for a while if you wish here, turning away from the path down Osgodby Hill Road towards Tenants Cliff. Keep your map handy, though!
Scarborough
The final leg of the Filey to Scarborough coastal walk begins with the beautiful Star Disk in Scarborough. This lies on Scarborough beach and features an illuminated diagram of the 42 brightest stars visible above Scarborough. It was once the site of Scarborough swimming pool, which was closed in 1989.
Then you’ll be on your way to Scarborough Spa Cliff Lift, the oldest funicular in the UK. For a small price, you can ride up from the spa to the South Cliff Esplanade, taking in the views of the beach as you do so.
The lift dates back to 1873, so you’ll be indulging in a little history as you ride! Dogs are welcome on the lift so long as they are well-behaved and secured.
Next, head down to the Grand Hotel in Scarborough, the imposing 19th Century structure that has the accolade of the largest brick structure in Europe. It’s a sight to behold and definitely deserves a photo moment before you complete your walk.
Finally, make your way to Scarborough train station in the town centre to conclude the walk. Here, you can indulge in a spot of retail threapy with a few diversions in local shops.
Parking for the Filey to Scarborough Coastal Walk
If you’re arriving by car, the best place to park is in the Pay & Display on Station Avenue in Filey, with prices starting from £3.50.
If you’re traveling by train, you can start the walk from either from Filey or Scarborough train station.
Has our Filey to Scarborough walking route guide got you lacing up your walking boots? Check out our holiday cottages in Filey and Scarborough and find the perfect base to begin your adventure!
For some inspiration on where to stop for a bite to eat on your walk, give our guide on the top 10 seafood restaurants in Scarborough a read! And if you’re bringing your four-legged friend along, there’s a whole host of dog friendly pubs in Scarborough to choose from!