Best Walking Trails in Scarborough

Scarborough sits on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Yorkshire coastline, with walks that take in everything from dramatic clifftops to peaceful woodland. Staying at Low Moor Cottages, you’ll find walks from the door that lead straight into the surrounding countryside, as well as routes to nearby villages and the coast. With Autumn arriving and October Half Term on the horizon, there’s no better time to enjoy a short break filled with crisp fresh air, golden leaves, and plenty of local exploring.

Walks from Low Moor Cottages

From the cottages themselves, you can set out on foot to explore Cloughton, Scalby and Hackness — all within easy reach without needing to use the car. These walks are ideal for gentle strolls, with opportunities to pause at village pubs or enjoy a picnic along the way. Ravenscar, too, is close by and rewards walkers with dramatic coastal views across Robin Hood’s Bay.

North Bay Beach

Only around 5 miles, this walk starts at Scarborough Harbour and heads towards the castle, passing through a forested trail before reaching North Bay. Along the way, you’ll pass the Open Air Theatre and the Sea Life Centre, before heading out into open fields with sweeping views of the coastline.

Cleveland Way to Filey

If you’re looking for more of a challenge, the Cleveland Way offers some of the most rewarding scenery. From Scarborough’s South Beach, follow the trail through the North York Moors National Park, continuing on to Cayton Bay and Filey Brigg. This route is around 8 miles with moderate terrain — perfect for walkers seeking a day-long adventure.

Broxa Forest

A short drive away, Broxa Forest forms part of the North Riding Forest and offers quiet woodland trails. The route passes close to Barn’s Cliff hill, where you’ll find lovely views over Harwood Dale. The paths vary in difficulty, with some gradients and narrower sections, so it’s worth planning ahead.

Dalby Forest

Ideal for families, Dalby Forest combines wide-open trails with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From the Gruffalo orienteering course and Go Ape, to cycling and mountain biking routes, there’s plenty to make a day of it. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit, with the forest transforming into a blaze of colour.

Ravenscar Coastal Path

For a shorter stroll, Ravenscar Coastal Path is just 1.5 miles and offers plenty of picture-perfect viewpoints. The trail is mostly easy-going, though it includes an uphill stretch on the return. On clear days, the views across the bay are spectacular, and you may even spot the local seal colony basking on the shore below.

Whether you’re planning a short Autumn getaway or making the most of October Half Term, Scarborough and the surrounding villages offer walking routes for every pace. From the doorstep of Low Moor Cottages to the forests and coastline beyond, there’s always a new path to explore.