Lilla Cross is a historic trail marker that’s shrouded in legend. According to folklore, King Edwin of Northumbria placed the cross here to mark the grave of Lilla, one of his thegns (a title given to those members of society in late Anglo-Saxon times) who saved his life during an assassination attempt. The current cross dates to the 10th century but replaced an earlier one from 626. You get fabulous views from this spot.

RichD

January 18, 2025

Hiking

Lilla didn't survive the attempt on King Edwin's life by a West Saxon messenger, hence the cross to memorialise him. The Old Salt Road and the Pannierman's Way both intersected at the cross, and the cross marked the meeting point of four ancient parishes, and the edge of ownership of Whitby Abbey.

Adrian

August 21, 2020

Cycling

An old cross with a splendid view and enriched history. Best to visit in August September when heather is bloomed.

Nearby routes

Best routes near Lilla Cross

hikers

1. Shooting House Rigg and Stony Leas loop

12.3km

03:23

190m

Hike the moderate 7.7-mile Shooting House Rigg and Stony Leas loop in North York Moors National Park, featuring diverse landscapes and viewp

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2. Lilla Cross loop from Fylingdales — North York Moors National Park

15.2km

04:09

220m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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3. Falling Foss Tea Garden – Lilla Cross loop from Sneaton

13.8km

03:48

230m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 350 m

Weather

Today

Thursday 12 March

11°C

4°C

93 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 52.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: LCPs of Fylingdales and Hawsker-cum-Stainsacre, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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Lilla Cross

1. Shooting House Rigg and Stony Leas loop

2. Lilla Cross loop from Fylingdales — North York Moors National Park

3. Falling Foss Tea Garden – Lilla Cross loop from Sneaton

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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