The Start of The Cleveland Way.

23rd April 2011, A beautifully sunny day.

Start: The cross in the square at Helmsley village, OS map OL26, Grid ref: SE61272

Distance:  7 miles return walk.

Time:  3.5 hrs including cafe stop.

The cross in the bustling town square at Helmsley is the starting point for the Cleveland Way, which stretches for 110 miles in a horseshoe shape before finishing at Filey Brigg just south of Scarborough.

Setting off from the car park you head towards Helmsley castle and the long stay car park, it’s from here that you follow the path leading up a hill between fields filled with vibrant yellow rapeseed.  At the top pass through the gate and continue on the path through another gate pausing here to look back towards Helmsley and the historic ruins of the castle.

The beginning of the Cleveland Way is clearly marked and easy to follow.  Eventually you descend down stone steps and then climb back up again to open fields.  Keep going straight ahead past a lone house on the hill and continue to follow the well sign-posted path that starts its descent towards Rivaulx.

At the bottom of this path, turn left following the signs to Rivaulx and walk along the road, which runs parallel to the stream; a good place for small paws to have a paddle.  As you round the bend you will get your first proper glimpse of the Rivaulx Abbey.

The Abbey itself is just a little further along where you can purchase a ticket to go round this enchanting ruin from the British Heritage shop.  There is a café serving excellent sandwiches and cakes or you can always eat your picnic if you have one.

Do take time to absorb the peace and tranquility this place holds.  You will leave it feeling refreshed I can assure you.  From here you can continue along the Cleveland Way by following the path, or retrace your steps back to Helmsley for a round trip of seven miles, finishing at The Feathers Hotel for a well earned drink.