This excellent crag is popular with individuals and groups alike. In addition to a wide range of graded climbs there is extensive bouldering available. Although exposed to the elements, there is usually shelter to be found on one of its aspects. It can be a delightful sun trap in high summer.
Parking and Approach
The most popular approach is from Clay Bank car park on the B1257 Stokesley to Helmsley road at NZ572035. Follow the road briefly in the direction of Helmsley to the end of the trees where there are stone steps on the right going uphill. At the top of the steps there is a choice of route. A) Pass through a gate on the left and follow The Cleveland Way up to the top of the moor and along the edge of the escarpment for approximately 1.5km. to the crag. B) Continue up the rough eroded track to level out and skirt beneath Landslip and Ravenscar before Wainstones Needle becomes obvious above and over a stile. Both routes take approximately 30 mins.
There are a number of alternative approaches.
CRoW Information
Open access land, designated under the Countryside & Rights of Way Act (2000) give area access rather than linear access as provided by public rights of way. It also gives a legal right of access specifically for climbing, as well as walking and other quiet recreation on foot.
Please bear in mind however that the landowner still has the right to restrict access for up to 28 days per year (often used on public safety grounds for shooting in moorland areas), and can also apply for longer term restrictions with Natural England (such as bans on dogs, or regular restrictions during particular times of year). It is important to check for these restrictions regularly as they can be added at short notice – all details for open access land in England can be found on Natural England’s website .