Are you ready to take on a self-guided trip along the iconic Coast to Coast route across England but unsure how many days you'll need? Macs Adventure offers a variety of hiking itineraries so you can experience this unforgettable journey at your own pace. Whether you're hiking the full route from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay or are wanting to split it into sections, we have a trip catered to your style and fitness level. 

Hiking the Coast to Coast Route  

Experience the legendary Coast to Coast trail on foot, with durations ranging from 9 to 18 days. Each itinerary is designed to let you soak in the landscapes while hiking at a pace that suits you. In a nutshell, the longer the trip, the shorter the daily hiking distance. Let us break down of your options: 

• Coast to Coast Walk - 18 Days
  Difficulty: Moderate
  Total Ascents & Descents:   
  • With high route options: 28,365ft (8,646m) ascent / 26,530ft (8,086m) descent 
  • With low route options: 24,775ft (7,551m) ascent / 22,985ft (7,006m) descent

This itinerary is our longest Coast to Coast journey, featuring 16 days of hiking through three of England’s National Parks. With daily hikes ranging from 8 to 16 miles, you'll explore the beauty of the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors—all at a pace that suits you. 

Check out our Coast to Coast Walk – 18 days self-guided trip
 

• Coast to Coast Walk - 17 Days 
  Difficulty: Moderate
  Total Ascents & Descents: 
  • With high route options:  28,135ft (8,576m) ascent / 26,215ft (7,990m) descent 
  • With low route options: 24,530ft (7,477m) ascent / 22,670ft (6910m) descent 

Take on the iconic Coast to Coast Walk, with 15 days of hiking from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay. These daily hikes are brimming with charming villages, sweeping views, and a true sense of achievement, and range from 8 to 23 miles. To keep your legs fresh for the final stretch to Robin Hood's Bay, this tour breaks a longer section of the similar 16-day itinerary into two shorter hiking days (days 14 and 15).  

Check out our Coast to Coast Walk – 17 days self-guided trip 

• Coast to Coast Walk - 16 Days 
  Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
  Total Ascents & Descents:
  • With high route options: 26,215ft (7,990m) ascent / 26,240ft (7,998m) descent
  • With low route options: 22,610ft (6,891m) ascent / 22,695ft (6,917m) descent 

This itinerary offers 14 days of hiking with daily distances ranging between 8 and 23 miles. When comparing this itinerary to the 17-Day tour, you’ll find that Day 14 consists of a 20.5 mile hiking day, which combines the two days of hiking into a single day. Who's ready to take on the challenge?

Check out our Coast to Coast Walk – 16 days self-guided trip

• Coast to Coast Walk - 15 Days
  Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
  Total Ascents & Descents:
  • With high route options: 26,115ft (7,960m) ascent / 23,880ft (7,279m) descent
  • With low route options: 22,510ft (6,861m) ascent / 20,335ft (6,861m) descent 

With 13 hiking days, over half of them have a daily distance of 15 miles or more. You’ll have all your kit and can take it at your own pace – you've got this! 

Check out our Coast to Coast Walk – 15 days self-guided trip

• Coast to Coast Walk - 14 Days
  Difficulty: Strenuous
  Total Ascents & Descents:
  • With high route options: 26,035ft (7,935m) ascent / 24,620ft (7,504m) descent
  • With low route options: 23,495ft (7,161m) ascent / 22,565ft (6,878m) descent 

The original itinerary and our most challenging option with daily hikes ranging between 12 and 23 miles. This is best suited for experienced hikers. Just remember the warm, cozy bed and delicious meal waiting for you and the end of each day. 

Check out our Coast to Coast Walk – 14 days self-guided trip
 

Shorter Hiking Itineraries

If you’re short on time, you can explore either the East or West section of the trail as a standalone adventure. Return later to complete the other half or the full Coast to Coast.  

• Coast to Coast East Section | 9 Days:
  Distance: 103 miles
  Difficulty: Moderate
  Duration: 9 days
  Total Ascents & Descents:
  • With high route options: 10,295ft (3,138m) ascent / 10,880ft (3,316m) descent
  • With low route options: 9,625ft (2,934m) ascent / 9,210ft (2,807m) descent 

Head on a 9-day journey through the beautiful eastern section of the iconic Coast-to-Coast trail from Kirkby Stephen to Robin Hood’s Bay. Explore the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales and the dramatic North York Moors, passing through charming villages and historic landmarks. Ideal for those looking for a rewarding and scenic hiking adventure. 

Check out our Coast to Coast East self-guided trip

• Coast to Coast West Section | 9 Days:
• Distance: 85 miles
  Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
  Duration: 9 days
  Total Ascents & Descents:
  • With high route options: 13,285ft (4,049m) ascent / 10,380ft (3,164m) descent
  • With low route options: 12,885ft (3,927m) ascent / 10,010ft (3,051m) descent 

Experience the stunning landscapes of the Lake District on this 9-day adventure. Typically harder than the east section of the Coast to Coast route, this trip covers the western section of the iconic Coast-to-Coast trail. Starting in St Bees and finishing in Kirkby Stephen, this journey takes you through picturesque villages, serene lakes, and dramatic falls. Perfect for those seeking a shorter yet unforgettable hiking experience that still packs a punch. 

Check out our Coast to Coast West self-guided trip 

No matter your fitness level or schedule, our hiking trips provide a perfect balance of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery.

Preparing for Your Coast to Coast Adventure  

Planning your Coast-to-Coast hike is part of the excitement! Whether you're curious about the physical demands of the trail, the best spots to eat and drink, or wondering what essentials to pack, we've got you covered. Check out these resources to feel confident and ready for your unforgettable hiking experience: 

• How Fit Should I Be to Hike the Coast to Coast?
• 10 most frequently asked questions about Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk
• Eating & Drinking on the Coast to Coast
• What to Pack for a Hiking Trip on the Coast to Coast?

These guides will help you plan with ease, so all that's left to do is lace up your boots and enjoy the adventure!

Why Book Your Adventure With Macs Adventure? 

Choosing Macs Adventure means hassle-free, expertly crafted self-guided walking holidays. Here's why we're the trusted choice for over 30,000 travelers each year: 

• Expert Planning: Tried-and-tested routes with accommodation and luggage transfers sorted for you.  
• Flexible Travel: Start your adventure on the date that works for you.   
• Complete Support: Travel independently with the peace of mind that we’re here 24/7.   
• Positive Impact: Support local economies and greener travel options with every booking.   
• Travel at Your Own Pace, With the People You Choose: No schedules or guides needed – this is your adventure. Go solo or with friends and explore your way.
• Seamless Trip Management with the Macs App: Access your itinerary, maps, and trip details instantly, keeping all your travel essentials handy. 

At Macs Adventure, we believe there’s a Coast to Coast trip for everyone, whether you’re hiking or biking. For more details or recommendations and advice based on your fitness level, reach out to our friendly team. Let’s plan your Coast to Coast adventure today!