The beck only runs for 23 kilometres (14 mi) and feeds directly into the North Sea on the south side of Saltburn beach.

From Skelton Mill to the beach at Saltburn, the beck runs through a deep ravine which averages a depth of 150 feet (46 m) and a width sometimes as narrow as 100 yards (91 m).

It is listed as having poor ecological status due to the minewater pollution from the former ironstone workings in the area.

[17] The beck is noted for being one a handful in Yorkshire that supports a sea trout and a salmon population for breeding.

[26] Ironstone workings were found along either side of the beck, particularly Longacres Pit, which was built almost on top of the water.