Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX follows the shortest popular western ascent of Roseberry Topping: a 2.4 km out-and-back from the North York Moors National Park car park at Newton-under-Roseberry, with 189 m of ascent. Follow the signed path through Newton Wood, then climb the restored, stone-pitched route onto open hillside and the 320 m summit. Return by the identical path. This GPX does not continue along the Cleveland Way to Little Roseberry and does not start at Great Ayton station. The climb is short but steep and can be muddy or slippery; it is a Moderate walk rather than the technical scramble described by the old article.
The summit is small, steep-sided and often crowded. Keep children and dogs close around the crags, and give people room on the steps rather than stepping onto eroded ground. The woodland can be muddy while the upper path becomes icy in shade, so footwear matters despite the short distance. If the car park is full, use another legal option; the narrow local roads and access points must remain clear. The same steep steps must be descended on the return.
Distinctive and iconic hill with fine views across North Yorkshire and Cleveland.
National Trust
Route Waypoints
Start at the North York Moors National Park car park, grid reference NZ 570 127. The car park is fee-paying, including for National Trust members; follow the signed path towards Newton Wood.
Continue on the main summit route through the woodland. Keep to current signs and any temporary diversions, as the National Trust and National Park have been repairing and resurfacing paths.
Climb the steep stone-pitched path as the trees give way to open hillside. There is no technical scramble on this GPX, but wet stone, mud and the gradient require steady footing.
Reach the distinctive summit at 320 m for broad views over Cleveland and North Yorkshire. This is the turnaround: do not continue towards Little Roseberry or Captain Cook's Monument.
Reverse the steep upper steps with care. Wait at wider points when other walkers are climbing rather than stepping onto loose, eroded ground.
Re-enter the woodland and stay on the main path. Mud, roots and shaded ice can make this section slippery.
Follow the signed path back to Newton-under-Roseberry. Do not use farm entrances or the roadside as overflow parking.
Retrace the stepped western route through Newton Wood. Take care on the steep steps, follow any signed diversions and finish at the same National Park car park.
Essential Tips
Path-restoration work may require short closures or signed diversions. Obey on-site notices and stay on the surfaced line to protect replanted ground and the summit's sensitive landscape.
Newton-under-Roseberry car park is managed by the National Park Authority and charges apply, including to National Trust members. Check the current payment arrangements before leaving the car.
The National Trust asks visitors heading to the summit to put dogs on a lead. Keep them controlled around wildlife and other walkers, and take all waste away.
The open upper hill is exposed and the steps can be slick in rain, frost or ice. Wear footwear with grip, carry a layer and turn back if footing or wind becomes unsafe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Roseberry Topping walk from Newton?
The supplied out-and-back GPX is 2.4 km with 189 m of ascent. TrailTrack's pace estimate is 47 minutes, though steep steps, busy paths, weather and breaks can add time.
Is this Roseberry Topping route a scramble?
No. It is a short but steep Moderate walk on woodland paths and restored stone pitching. It can be muddy or slippery when wet, but the GPX does not require technical scrambling.
Where does this route start and is parking free?
It starts at the North York Moors National Park car park in Newton-under-Roseberry, grid reference NZ 570 127. The car park is fee-paying, including for National Trust members.