Cleveland Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and things to do in Cleveland, UK. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide that includes natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, museums, local culture and customs, safety measures, transportation and logistics, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Cleveland

Located in the north-east of England, Cleveland is a historic county with a strong industrial heritage. It is home to beautiful landscapes such as the North York Moors National Park, picturesque market towns, and charming coastal villages. Cleveland offers an array of attractions that cater to all tastes. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the region’s must-visit places, cultural and natural attractions, local food and drink scene, hiking/biking routes, the best things to do in Cleveland and more.

List of Places to Visit in Cleveland

There are plenty of fascinating places to visit in Cleveland, such as:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Captain Cook Birthplace Museum: The museum celebrates the achievements of the world-famous explorer, Captain James Cook, and features exhibitions, interactive displays, and gardens.
  • Kirkleatham Museum: The museum is located in a 17th-century hall and features a history of the town and its industry, with displays of art, archaeology, social history, and more.
  • Guisborough Priory: The ruins of a 14th-century monastery offer a glimpse into medieval monastic life. The site also includes a museum and a visitor center.

Natural Attractions of Cleveland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • North York Moors National Park: Covering over 1400 km², the park offers stunning landscapes for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching. Don’t miss the chance to take a ride on the North York Moors Railway, which winds through the heart of the park.
  • Saltburn Pier: The pier offers beautiful views of the North Sea and includes fun arcades, cafes, and a tramway lift to the top of the hill.
  • Roseberry Topping: The distinct shape of the hill is a landmark of the Tees Valley, and it can be climbed via a well-marked trail offering panoramic views from the top.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cleveland

Cleveland offers an extensive network of well-marked trails, cycling routes, and footpaths in its national parks and protected areas. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Cleveland are:

  • Cleveland Way: A 109-mile hiking trail that winds through the North York Moors, the Cleveland Hills, and the Heritage Coastline
  • Guisborough Forest Walkway: A family-friendly trail near Guisborough that takes you through coniferous trees and offers views of Roseberry Topping.
  • Sutton Bank Biking Trails: A network of trails for all skill levels that includes steep climbs, fast downhills, and scenic views of the Hambleton Hills and the Yorkshire Dales.

Best Things to Do in Cleveland: Activities and Tours

When it comes to activities and tours, Cleveland has a range of options, some of which are:

  • Enjoy a day by the beach at Saltburn-by-the-Sea with its amusement arcades, cafes, and beautiful Victorian architecture.
  • Take a heritage train ride through the heart of the North York Moors National Park on the North York Moors Railway.
  • Explore the local wine scene by visiting one of the many vineyards in the region, including the award-winning Leven Bank Vineyard.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cleveland

A week-long itinerary for Cleveland may include:

Day Activity
Day 1 Discover the heritage of Captain James Cook at the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum and visit nearby Stewart Park
Day 2 Explore Guisborough Priory and learn about the town’s medieval history
Day 3 Hike the Cleveland Way trail and enjoy breathtaking views of the North York Moors National Park
Day 4 Take a relaxing stroll down Saltburn Pier and spend time by the beach
Day 5 Visit the charming market town of Stokesley and its interesting shops and cafes
Day 6 Go on a winery tour at Leven Bank Vineyard and enjoy the beautiful landscape of the River Tees
Day 7 Take a leisurely walk through the streets of Middlesbrough and explore its local history and attractions

Food and Drink Scene of Cleveland

The North East of England is known for its rich and flavorful traditional cuisine featuring local fresh ingredients. In Cleveland, some of the must-try dishes are:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Parmo: Originating from Teesside, the parmo is a breaded chicken cutlet topped with béchamel and cheese, served with chips and salad.
  • Whitby Scampi: The Whitby coastline produces excellent scampi using the langoustine found in the region’s waters.
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding: This sweet dessert is a staple of Cleveland and can be found in restaurants and cafes across the area.

Local Beverages

  • Teesside Cream Tea: A regional alternative to the traditional Devon/Cornwall cream tea, featuring a fruity Teesside tea and a scone accompanied by clotted cream and jam.
  • Cleveland Tart: A local pastry made with almond frangipane, shortcrust pastry, and raspberry jam filling.

Where to Stay in Cleveland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cleveland offers a range of accommodation options suitable for all budgets, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some of the popular options are:

  • Gisborough Hall Hotel: A Grade II-listed country house hotel with luxurious rooms, fine dining, and spa facilities.
  • YHA Helmsley: A reasonably priced hostel in the picturesque market town of Helmsley suitable for families, groups, and solo travelers.
  • Brockley Hall Hotel: A unique boutique hotel with individually styled rooms and a lively cocktail bar.

What to Buy in Cleveland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cleveland has a unique identity that translates into its local souvenirs and products. Here are some items to bring home:

  • Whitby Jet Jewelry: The locally mined jet is popular for making mourning jewelry and is a unique souvenir.
  • Cleveland T-Shirt: Wear your love for the region with a T-shirt featuring local landmarks and symbols.
  • Brittle’s Traditional Sweet Shop Fudge: Grab some locally made fudge from one of the best sweet shops in Cleveland.

Local Culture and Customs of Cleveland

Cleveland has a rich cultural history and identity that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind while in the area:

  • Cleveland usually embraces social events and festivals. You may spot various activities like fairs, music festivals, and craft markets around the region.
  • Clevelanders are known for their hearty and friendly nature.
  • Middlesbrough Football Club is the well-supported sporting club in the area with matches played weekly at Riverside Stadium.

Best Time to Visit Cleveland

Cleveland can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the summer months of June to August offer the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Early autumn in September and October is ideal for the beautiful changing of colors in national park and forests. Winter sports like skiing can be enjoyed during January and February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cleveland

Do:

  • Try some local delicacies, especially the famous parmo.
  • Take the time to explore the Tees Valley Way, a 12-mile walking trail along the River Tees
  • Plan your visit around the local fairs, cultural events, and festivals

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the weather as it can be unpredictable and change quickly, so come prepared.
  • Littering is taken seriously, so do be mindful to dispose of your waste properly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cleveland

Cleveland is a safe place for travelers and locals. However, like any other destination, it is recommended to take precautions to ensure safety and security. Here are some tips:

  • Always be aware of your surroundings
  • Do not leave valuables unattended or visible

Health in Cleveland

Cleveland has high-quality medical facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. For emergency medical services, dial 999. Before planning your trip, it is advisable to invest in travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

Getting to Cleveland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cleveland is accessible by different modes of transportation, and there are numerous options for exploring the region.

Airports Near Cleveland

The nearest international airport is Durham Tees Valley Airport, which offers direct flights to several European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Cleveland

National Express coaches run services daily to Middlesbrough Bus Station and other parts of the UK.

Other Options

You can drive to Cleveland or travel by train via the East Coast Mainline.

How to Get Around in Cleveland

There are several options available for getting around Cleveland, including buses, trains, and car rentals. You may also hire a bike to explore the region’s bike paths.

Where to Go Next from Cleveland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cleveland is surrounded by other beautiful destinations that are worth a visit. Some of the places to consider include:

  • Durham: This historic city is known for its UNESCO-listed castle and cathedral and is only a short drive away.
  • Newcastle upon Tyne: A vibrant city on the Northumberland coast with excellent shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.
  • York: A must-visit city for history lovers with its Roman walls, medieval streets, and impressive Minster.

Conclusion

Cleveland offers a unique and idyllic location for anyone looking for a break from their busy lives. From its stunning landscapes and natural attractions to its rich cultural heritage, it will appeal to all visitors. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Cleveland and experience everything it has to offer.