Walking trail
Roseberry Topping from Great Ayton station walk
Leave the car behind on this walk starting at Great Ayton station, taking in many of the features that make Roseberry Topping so special.
Discover fascinating history, fabulous wildlife and the 360 degree panoramic views that can be enjoyed from the summit.
Map
Start:
Great Ayton station, grid ref: NZ574107
1
Turn right on leaving the station and follow the road, taking care for traffic.
2
Turn left at White House Farm and follow the road uphill to Airy Holme Farm.
3
Go through the farmyard. Turn right at the end of the yard to continue on the track.
The Captain Cook connection
As a boy James Cook worked as a farm hand at Airy Holme Farm and regularly climbed Roseberry Topping to enjoy the spectacular views across the Cleveland plain and beyond. These early exploits are said to have given him the appetite for adventure that was to lead him to become an explorer.
4
After 765yd (700m) turn left onto a footpath. Cross a stile and continue towards Roseberry Topping.
5
At the top of the field cross another stile. Continue forward onto a stone pitched path that leads to the summit.
Enjoy the view
The panoramic views from Roseberry's summit take in the contrasting landscapes of the area. From the flat arable land of the Cleveland plane to the rugged wilderness of the North York Moors to the industrial heartland at Teesmouth.
6
Retrace your steps back down to the stile. Do not cross the stile, but turn right and follow the fence line down. Go through the gate and follow the path through the field to the right of the folly.
The mystery of the folly
The origins of the folly to the south-west of Roseberry are something of a mystery. Most historians believe it was built as a summer house where Victorian walkers could rest rather than as a shooting box, as the plaque suggests.
7
Go through the gate into Newton Wood. Turn left and follow the path along the top edge of the wood.
Bluebells
Newton Wood is probably the best example of a bluebell wood in the area. These beautiful woodland flowers are a real British speciality and are at their best in May.
8
After passing through a clearing bear left where the path forks.
9
Go right at the T junction and follow the path down through the woods.
10
Where the path leaves the wood, turn left onto a wide track and continue for 55yd (50m).
11
Take the left hand fork at the National Trust sign. Continue straight on into Cliff Ridge Wood, sticking to the right when the path forks again.
Woodland birds
Why not bring along some binoculars to spot some of the wildlife that lives in the woods. Both green and great spotted woodpeckers can be seen as well as many other woodland species.
12
At the end of the path leave the wood through a kissing gate. Follow the path on the right hand side of the fence across the field. Cross the stile and turn right on the road. Retrace your steps back to the car park.
End:
Great Ayton station, grid ref: NZ574107
