Today more than 150 walkers traversed a three-mile stretch of path known as the Pilgrim’s Walk to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Cleveland Way National Trail.
This 109 mile National Trail runs from the North York Moors National Park from Helmsley to Saltburn before following the coastline down to Filey Bridge, allowing thousands of people every year to connect with England’s countryside and coastline.
Rural Affairs Minister Lord Gardiner and Natural England’s Interim Chief Executive Marian Spain attended today’s celebratory event and walked the stretch from Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey.
Rural Affairs Minister Lord Gardiner said:
For half a century, this famous walking route has given thousands of visitors the chance to access fabulous views and landscapes – from stunning moorland to precious ancient woodland and breathtaking coastlines.
As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Cleveland Way, I am delighted to celebrate the important role National Trails play in allowing us all to experience, and value the benefits of the natural environment and connect with the beauty of the English countryside.
Natural England interim Chief Executive Marian Spain said:
Cleveland Way takes walkers on a journey through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Britain, from picture-postcard villages to big-sky moorland and dramatic coastline.
Three years ago Natural England opened an additional 50-mile stretch of the Cleveland Way from Saltburn to Filey and we’re proud to be back today supporting the trail’s 50th anniversary. National Trails are the jewels in the rights of way crown and Cleveland Way is a perfect example of how these routes can help people of all ages and places enjoy the great outdoors.
The coastal Cleveland Way follows part of the England Coast Path, which will be one of the world’s longest continuous coastal walking routes when completed.
National Trails are long-distance walking routes that pass through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Britain.