Scramble through the Wainstones

  • Scramble through the Wainstones © Mike Kipling
A more adventurous walk up Hasty Bank to the unique Wainstones will not disappoint. As the only part of the Cleveland Way where you need to use your hands for a very short scramble, the Wainstones present a small yet satisfying challenge.

Known locally as ‘The Stones’, this dramatic rock outcrop of weathered sandstone is a prominent feature in the North York Moors. From here you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding heather moorland and patchwork of fields below the dramatic cliffs, which drop down from Hasty Bank. The heather moorland is a spectacular open landscape, managed for grouse and important for other breeding birds such as golden plover. Experience a real sense of freedom and exploration that is sure to inspire you.

The Wainstones are also a popular attraction for more adventurous rock climbers, who visit all year round. The altitude and exposed position of the Wainstones means that suitable outdoor clothing is essential, although during rainy periods it’s always possible to find dry shelter for a cosy picnic beneath one of the many rock faces. Whilst scrambling through, look out for the names elegantly carved into the rocks by previous visitors many years ago. Who were these people and how must the landscape have inspired them to leave their marks on it?

Downloads

Location map

© Crown copyright and database rights 2013. Ordnance Survey 100021930.
Start: 
Clay Bank car park, Clay Bank Road
Distance: 
3.8 km (2.4 miles)
Time: 
2 hours
OS Map: 
OL26 North York Moors Western area