The opening of the newest stretch of the England Coast Path has given first-time public access to a headland near Staithes, providing visitors with a spectacular new vantage point that showcases the beauty of the fishing village.
The 68-mile stretch of path from Middlesbrough to Filey Brigg which was officially opened by Natural England this week, enters the North York Moors National Park just north of Boulby. It follows the existing Cleveland Way National Trail for 50 miles along the coast from Saltburn to Filey.
Just below Staithes, the Cleveland Way has been diverted to create a brand new one-mile stretch of the path which hugs the headland and cliff top, enabling visitors to see the village from an impressive angle.
The new section has been opened up with the help of the National Trust which has granted access and created a generous 10-metre wide, fence-lined path that will enable people to really enjoy the views.
Malcolm Hodgson, National Trails Officer for the Cleveland Way based within the North York Moors National Park explains: “As the headland juts out just beyond Staithes, it offers visitors a more direct view back to the old harbour and the cottage-lined cobbled streets that before has only really been seen by those out at sea.
“The opening of the England Coast Path not only showcases beauty spots like these but also gives greater prominence to the Cleveland Way’s route along the spectacular coastline within the national park.”