AN initiative has been launched to encourage more people to step out and enjoy more than 3,000 years of history.

English Heritage, the Cleveland Way Project and Ryedale Council have teamed up in an attempt to add to the 300,000 pairs of feet that cover parts of the trail each year.

The 25-mile length, from Helmsley Castle to Mount Grace Priory, on the fringe of the North York Moors National Park, is the most rich in heritage and spectacular countryside. It is the focus for a pilot project between the three partners.

About 20,000 leaflets have been produced to encourage walkers to visit the heritage sites and for people to sample the breathtaking landscapes.

Deputy regional director of English Heritage John Hinchliffe said: "There is a natural link between some of the country's finest and most historic landscapes and the four unique English Heritage sites that can be enjoyed along this first stretch of the Cleveland Way.

"The trail is an ancient route where walkers can follow in the footsteps of abbots, monks and Scottish cattle drovers."

He added: "The idea behind the launch of Heritage Adventures leaflets is to awaken visitors to the idea of exploring the secrets of our ancestors while they are out enjoying the walks. We are talking spectacular scenery coupled with inspiring architecture out there every day of the year."

The 25-mile stretch featured in the Heritage Adventures leaflet links Helmsley Castle, with Rievaulx Abbey, Byland Abbey and Mount Grace Priory.

* The Cleveland Way, opened 33 years ago, is made up of 69 miles of footpaths, 15 miles of bridleway, five miles of byway, and roads or footways of 20 miles.

Anyone walking the entire route would cross 114 stiles, 74 gates and 27 bridges.