The Wainstones
📍 Middlesbrough TS9 7JB, UK
About The Wainstones
The Wainstones stand as a magnificent natural landmark within the North York Moors National Park, inviting adventurers to explore its rugged beauty. This captivating destination is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it perfect for early morning treks or sunset scrambles.
Praised by visitors, The Wainstones boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.8/5 stars, reflecting its popularity and the memorable experiences it offers.
A Rewarding Ascent
Hikers can expect a genuinely rewarding experience at The Wainstones. The ascent, though steep in parts, is well worth the effort, leading to breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the stunning Yorkshire landscape. Paths are generally well-maintained, guiding explorers up the incline. As you approach the summit, a gentle scramble through the iconic stones themselves adds an exciting element to the adventure, all while remaining accessible and not overly dangerous.
Visitors frequently commend the wonderful views from the top, often noting that the steep climb is a small price to pay for the spectacular reward. Due to the uneven terrain, comfortable walking shoes or boots are strongly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to the summit and back.
Whether seeking a challenging hike or simply a chance to connect with nature and soak in incredible scenery, The Wainstones offers an unforgettable outdoor experience in the heart of Yorkshire.
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📍 Middlesbrough TS9 7JB, UK
from 272 reviews
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Showing 5 of 272 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 4 January 2026.View all on Google →
Ok this is a pretty steep climb and it took about an hour to climb with a couple of stops for a few minutes. Someday much younger and fitter could probably do it a lot quicker! However, the views on thecway up and from the top were worth the effort. Not forgetting the interesting rock formation at the top.
This is a fabulous place, steep walk to the top but the paths are excellent. A little scrambled through the stones themselves but nothing dangerous and it's clearly marked out. Our little spaniel managed it too . Kept her on the lead through the heathers as there were lots of beautiful nesting red grouse. Car park at the start with plenty of room in the paying one and a few spaces opposite that are free if you are lucky.
Great walk out on the Cleveland way, hardly a soul around and great weather for October.
Wonderful views and well worth the steep climb. Walking shoes etc are strongly recommended because of the uneven yet well maintained path. Often very windy with little shelter and properly cold in winter.. Keep kids close because of cliff edge! Paths below the hilly bits (ie to the north) are sheltered by the trees and more gentle on the muscles but it can get VERY muddy - you have been warned!
Simply stunning, and easily accessible for younger walkers as well. We walked from Clay Bank - a steep uphill to start with but then a flatter walk along the top to reach the Wainstones, where you can stop and enjoy views across the Cleveland Plain on one side, and into Bilsdale and the moors on the other. My boys enjoyed climbing around, hide and seek on the rocks etc. and the rocks allow for a fun bit of scrambling around. We visited on a beautiful sunny day and had the place to ourselves!