We are the Pocklington Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
This is a fantastic walk that includes some of Yorkshire's famous landmarks, historic sites, woods and wildlife and a host of spectacular views. It starts at the famous Kilburn White Horse and after a short sharp climb up the steps from the car park we join the Cleveland Way. We then follow the Cleveland Way past the Yorkshire Gliding Club, founded in 1934, and weather permitting we should be able to see gliders launching and soaring over the high escarpment. Continuing on the Cleveland Way we pass through the area where in 1322 at the Battle of Byland, Robert the Bruce's Scottish army inflicted a significant defeat on the English by scaling the cliffs and outflanking them (you will see what a feat this was). Then on to Sutton Bank and Boltby Scar, taking in some fantastic views over the Vale of Mowbray from our elevated viewpoint. Just beyond Boltby Scar we take a path down to join a lower-level route that goes below Whitestone Cliff past Gormire Lake (the 4th largest natural lake in Yorkshire) and the Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, returning to the Kilburn White Horse Car Park via paths running along the foot of Hood Hill.
This route does involve a lot of uphill and downhill, but we will pace with plenty of time to take in the views and give walkers chance to catch their breath. Apart from a steep climb at the start, up the steps at the side of the White Horse and a steep downhill just beyond Boltby Scar, the route is undulating along good tracks and footpaths. There are toilets and refreshments at the Sutton Bank National Park Centre, about 1.5 miles from the start.
No dogs except assistance dogs with consent of the leader.
Low Town Bank Road, Kilburn N.B. Forestry England Car Park - £2.50 all day - CARD PAYMENT ONLY
