Bus
Driving
Whitby to Pickering
Updated: 28 May 2026
The route from Whitby to Pickering spans 20 miles across the heart of the North York Moors National Park. The A169 is the primary road, offering spectacular moorland scenery. The Coastliner 840 bus is a popular and scenic way to travel, often cited as one of the most beautiful bus routes in the UK. Driving takes about 40 minutes, while the bus takes roughly 50 minutes. Pickering is famous for its historic castle and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Total Distance: 32 km driving distance, 28 km straight-line distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the A169, taking 40 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Coastliner 840 bus.
Compare Whitby to Pickering Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 50 mins | 40 mins |
| Avg Price | 7-10 GBP | 8-12 GBP fuel |
| Operator | Transdev Coastliner | N/A |
| Route | 840 Coastliner from Whitby Bus Station to Pickering. | A169 road through Sleights and Goathland. |
| Tip | The top deck offers the best views of the moors. | Watch for sheep on the road when crossing the moors. |
Travel Tips
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Bus ViewsThe 840 bus is famous for its scenery; bring a camera.
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ParkingPickering has several long-stay car parks near the station.
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WeatherThe moors can be much colder than the coast; bring layers.
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TicketsUse the Transdev Go app for mobile ticketing.
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TimingCheck the steam train schedule if you plan to ride the railway.
Safety Tips
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Road HazardsThe A169 is prone to mist; use fog lights.
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WildlifeBe alert for deer and sheep crossing the road.
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WalkingIf hiking, carry a map as mobile signal is poor on the moors.
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EmergencyEmergency services may take longer to reach remote moorland areas.
People Also Ask
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Is the bus route scenic?Yes, it is widely considered one of the most scenic in England.
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Can I take a dog on the bus?Yes, dogs are allowed on Coastliner buses.
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How long is the steam train ride?The full line to Whitby takes about 2 hours.
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Is Pickering a good base?Yes, it is excellent for exploring the North York Moors.
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Are there electric car chargers?Yes, there are public charging points in Pickering.
Quick Info
- From Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- To Pickering, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
August for the purple heather bloom on the moors.
Things to Do in Pickering
1
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Ride a heritage steam train from Pickering station through the national park.
2
Pickering Castle
Explore the ruins of this 13th-century castle overlooking the town.
3
Beck Isle Museum
Discover local rural life and history in this charming museum.
4
St Peter and St Paul Church
View the famous medieval wall paintings inside this historic church.
Tags
Whitby to Pickering
Coastliner bus
A169 road
North York Moors travel
Pickering transport
Whitby to Pickering drive
Yorkshire travel
Moors bus
