There are so many considerations when walking the Coast to Coast. We have asked our in-office Coast to Coast experts for their list of Frequently Asked Questions, and you can check the answers out below.

WHICH ITINERARY SHOULD I TAKE?

Macs Adventure offers several different itineraries so that all levels of walkers can tackle this mighty trail. So, basically, the answer is, it depends on your level of fitness. However, you can read a far more extensive response to this particular question on our blog post- How many days to walk the Coast to Coast.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?

We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as Wainwright's Coast to Coast is extremely popular, especially over April/May and September. You will find up to date availability on our website, and we will always try and accommodate your plans.

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?

We offer a range of itineraries so you can choose your preferred daily distance so hopefully, you will find an itinerary that suits your preferred level of activity. If you currently don’t enjoy an active lifestyle, we suggest regular walking in hilly terrain supplemented by cardiovascular exercise for at least six months before your walk. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme. Regular walkers can use the grading on our Coast to Coast itineraries to help select the right option for their fitness level.

CAN I LEAVE MY CAR IN ST BEES? HOW DO IT GET BACK TO IT?

If you are thinking of driving a car to the start, please be aware that there are very limited parking facilities. The only free public parking is available at the railway station (only 18 spaces available) but is not intended for C2C walkers. Many B&Bs have parking available for a small fee per night. For up to date information about the parking available at St Bees, please see the St Bees Community Website. If you left your car in St Bees, you would need to take a bus from Robin Hood's Bay to Scarborough and from here take a train via Manchester and Carlisle to St Bees (approx. 6 hrs). Again, please check the Traveline website for schedules.

CAN I LEAVE MY CAR IN KIRKBY STEPHEN? HOW DO I GET BACK TO IT?

Parking in Kirkby Stephen is limited. However, there are some spaces in the Pennine View Campsite. The campsite is secure, and you can leave your car there for the duration of your walk. It costs approximately £4 per car per day. If you did park your vehicle in Kirkby Stephen, we can arrange for a transfer from Robin Hood’s Bay to Richmond, and then onto Kirkby Stephen. However, it is not possible to do it all in one day, so you will have to spend the night in Richmond (which we can also arrange) before being transferred from Richmond to Kirkby Stephen the next day. Alternatively, you can use public transport.

WHAT PERSONAL EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?

You will need good walking shoes/boots (ideally waterproof) with a few pairs of good walking socks, comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack and hats/gloves etc. We always suggest the layering method, to allow you to adjust to varying weather conditions. Many hikers opt for walking poles too, which are lightweight to carry and can help over steep or rougher terrain. On our tours, daily baggage transfer allows you to carry only the essentials for the walk, so you should also pack comfortable evening clothes and whatever else you would normally take with you for a trip away into your overnight baggage.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR?

Traditionally April/May has always been the most popular time of year because the theory goes that the weather is better. This said any time between late March and October offers a beautiful experience.

AM I ABLE TO TAKE MY DOG?

Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs on the Coast to Coast as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept pets.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN’T WALK A STAGE?

You can use public transport, bus or local taxis to continue to your next overnight stop, should you need to.

WHICH SECTION SHOULD I WALK, THE EAST OR THE WEST?

Of course, we would suggest that you walk both, but if you are hampered for time, then you will have to decide. The west section offers some truly spectacular views, but is tougher with ascent and rougher terrain. The east section is still very scenic, and a little easier (heading back down towards the coast). Some walkers opt to do the east section first (to build up fitness and get an understanding of the route), then return to complete the west section.

If you would like to read any more information please browse the itineraries that we offer or contact hello@macsadventure.com.