10.0 miles.

Explorer Map OL27, - North York Moors (East)

A delightful walk that is very straightforward, follows some historic trails, and in good weather provides some spectacular scenery. As a bonus, if you enjoy steam trains, the walk is almost constantly in sight of, or at least in sound of, the North York Moors Railway line. In summer there is regular traffic on this line, so that if you enjoy the sight and sound of steam locomotives tackling the steep gradients along the line, then this walk is for you!
Between Grosmont and Moorgates, the first half of the walk, the path follows VERY well defined tracks. There are only gentle gradients, and the walk is very starightforward.
On the return leg which follows paths to the East of the railway line, the route follows mostly well-defined paths. However, there is one section of rough pastureland where the path is very indistinct and not too easy to follow. There are also one or two steepish gradients on this section of the walk.

For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above link.
(Overlay made with Version 4 of Memory Map)

Start from car park outside Grosmont (NZ82656 05366). This car park is attended and a notice says that there is a fee to pay. But when we visited there was no attendant and thus no fee.
From the car park, take the signposted footpath to the railway station, which you enter via a footbridge.
From the railway station, cross over the lines at the level crossing, and immediately turn right to take the signposted footpath (Railway Trail) to Goathland.
THis path is broad and well-defined, and has numerous sign posts directing you to Goathland. You pass by the Beck Incline Cottage, and enter Goathland by the Public Car Park. Here, turn left towards the Goathland Hotel and the "Aidensfield Garage".
Immediately before the Goathland Hotel, a signposted track (the old railway track bed) takes you to Moorgates.
At Moorgates, turn left on the minor road, pass under the railway line, and shortly afterwards take the signposted footpath along a farm track on your left. Follow this track all the way to the minor road that descends into Goathland. At this point, take the signposted footpath that takes you down to Goathland Railway Station.
Do not cross the line, but continue along the footpath that follows the railway line Northwards. The path is well defined as it heads along Mill Scar, and then descends to a small hamlet by a beck.
Do not cross the beck, but turn right and ascened by steps and a well marked path to Sheep Bield.
At Sheep Bield, take the footpath West towards Hill Farm.
Just before Hill Farm, the footpath heads North West and then North to Hollin Garth. This section of the footpath is very indistinct, and you need to use your map and compass to make sure that you are heading in the correct direction.
From Holling Garth take the well marked footpath to Green End.
Just past Green End, the footpath divides. The left path (broad and tempting) takes you to Crag Dyke and a closed river crossing. Therefore, do NOT take this route.
Instead go right and take the well defined footpath all the way back to Grosmont.