Clark Fell
Good walks are even better shared.
NY3486 : Clark Fell
Walter Baxter Photo source
Overview
Clark Fell
Location: North York Moors
Elevation & Prominence
Clark Fell stands proudly at 256 meters, with a prominence of just 12 meters. It may not be the highest in the Moors, but it’s certainly a local favourite!
Geology
Set amongst the charming heather-covered hills, Clark Fell’s geology features sandstone and limestone, hinting at its past beneath ancient oceans. So, if you ever needed proof of a watery past, here it is!
Hiking the Routes
The Whitby to Clark Fell Trail is the primary route, measuring approximately 12 km. This moderate hike usually takes around four hours and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Don’t forget to bring your camera, or at least your memory—those views are something special!
Summit Features
Once at the top, hikers are greeted by a simple cairn. The rocky outcrops provide excellent spots to pause, take in the breeze, and maybe even contemplate life’s big questions. And remember—“To climb a mountain is to find yourself at the top, preferably with a packed lunch!”
Terrain Type
Expect a glorious mix of grassy paths and rocky terrain. Just watch your step, as the rocky outcrops can be a bit of a trickster. Stability is key, unless you fancy an unexpected ‘sit down’.
Views
From the summit, gaze into the distance where the North Sea glimmers, coupled with the undulating moorlands—spectacular! And if you select the right season, specifically spring or autumn, the views are even more magnificent as nature dons its finest attire.
Hazards
Be mindful of the occasional sheep that may appear as you hike; they are the true rulers of the fell! The rocky areas can become slippery during wet weather, making sturdy footwear a must.
Nearby Summits
While Clark Fell is delightful on its own, consider also striding over to Roseberry Topping (320 meters) and Carlton Bank (454 meters) for more breathtaking views and elevated breathing experience.
Access
For those travelling by car, parking is abundant in Whitby, especially at the trailhead. If public transport is more your jam, the train station in Whitby is within reach from major cities like York.
Facilities
After a day of hiking, reward yourself with some delicious fish and chips in Whitby, and don’t forget to stop by the local cafes for a well-deserved cuppa!
History
The name 'Clark' might hark back to a time when monastic clerks roamed these lands, making it not just a hike but a bit of a historical expedition. The fell holds significance for locals, providing respite from the buzz of coastal life.
Happy hiking—and may your sandwiches stay intact!
Explore routes near Clark Fell
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Newcastleton Forest Priest Hill Viewpoint Trail
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Hoddom Castle and River Annan Woodland Circuit
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Kielder Skyspace and Observatory Forest Walk
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Bakethin Hide Wild Walk
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Whitby to Clark Fell Trail
A scenic route beginning from the picturesque town of Whitby, this trail meanders through heathland and provides a gradual ascent to the summit.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NY3486 : Clark Fell
Walter Baxter
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NY3486 : The summit of Clark Fell
Walter Baxter
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
250m
820 ft
Prominence
93m
Coordinates
55.1704, -3.0241
NY348867
OS Map
79
Explorer: 323N
At the Summit
At the summit, you'll find a modest cairn and some excellent rocky outcrops offering some views, though it's not yet on the Instagram influencers' radar.
Terrain & Geology
The fell is primarily composed of sandstone, with some areas of limestone indicating a fascinating geological history marked by ancient sea beds.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the expansive moorlands and, on a clear day, the North Sea glimmering on the horizon.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Clark' is thought to derive from an Old English word for a clerk, suggesting some historic ecclesiastical ties.
Historical Significance
The fell has long been a local landmark, offering a brief escape from coastal crowds and a chance for quiet reflection.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There's ample parking at the trailhead in Whitby, though it can get busy during summer weekends.
Public Transport
The nearest train station is in Whitby, with regular services connecting to larger cities like York.
Nearby Facilities
Whitby boasts numerous cafes, public toilets, and a lovely fish and chips shop—ideal for post-hike dining.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Beware of rocky outcrops which can be slippery, particularly when wet. Also, watch out for the occasional sheep crossing the path—who rule the land.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Clark Fell?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Clark Fell through the maps
Are there other walkers around Clark Fell?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Clark Fell search or of course create your own walk for Clark Fell
Can I organise a walk to Clark Fell?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Clark Fell.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Clark Fell?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Clark Fell here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NY348867
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