The United Kingdom is home to unique and fascinating trails, including the world-renowned Pennine Way, which begins in the UK’s Edale and ends in Scotland’s Kirk Yetholm. Pennine Way was opened on April 24th, 1965, and is England’s first National Trail. It allowed people to witness some of the wildest landscapes in England along the country’s backbone. This is an iconic and scenic route drenched with stunning scenery and iconic history, and it’s undoubtedly a walk for the bucket list. It spans from the Yorkshire Dales and Derbyshire Peak District’s hills, across the North Pennines through Swaledale Valley, and over Wall Northumberland in Hadrian to the Cheviot Hills. The Pennine Way walk concludes in Kirk Yetholm on the Scottish border. The walk features an often remote and hilly terrain, which gets firm and smooth at certain places, and wet, boggy, and narrow at others. Here’s what to know about hiking the UK’s most famous three-week trek.
Here’s What To Know About The Length Of The Pennine Way And When To Visit
When walking the Pennine Way, people must ensure to bring with them plenty of dry socks and a waterproof. While the trail can be hiked all year round, it is better to do so between Mid-May and September when the weather is the most pleasant. Stretching across 431 kilometers or 268 miles on the wild northern uplands of England, the Pennine Way needs around three weeks to complete. Obviously, the trek is not easy, and it’s considered England’s most challenging National Trail. This is why people looking for a unique experience and experienced walkers are the only ones who should take part in this hike.
- Tip: The Pennine Way’s route can be split into short sections of walk, which may make it easier for hikers.
- Information: The combined ascent of the Pennine Way exceeds Mount Everest’s highest point.
- Recommended: Walkers are advised to use walking poles for covering the lengthy trek.
- Competitors: According to hiking enthusiasts, the Coast to Coast walk and the Helvellyn hike alongside the Pennine Way walk are all considered among the greatest UK walks.
- Rules: People must know that wild camping is not legal in England, making the practice illegal on Pennine Way.
These Are The Most Iconic Stops Along The Pennine Way Trail
People start the walk with the first stage from Edale to Torside or Crowden by walking the path up over Kinder Low, Jacob’s Ladder, and up towards Kinder Downfall. They will then reach a paved walkway up to Bleaklow Head crossing A57 road from Mill Hill. Next, they will reach a steep and lengthy descent to Torside reservoir via Torside Clough. The distance of this stage is 16.4 miles or 25.6 kilometers.
The second stage from Torside or Crowden to Standedge is full of fascinating scenery and stunning views. After 13.2 miles or 21.2 kilometers of walking, people will reach Standedge, where they will see a canal tunnel and a railway. Next, people head to Hebden Bridge, where they will witness the Stoodley Pike Monument along the way, a needle-shaped iconic viewpoint perfect for snapping the best shots. People can stop then for a pint of tea at May’s Shop on their way from Hebden Bridge to Cowling. Here, the scenery is marvelous around the River Aire at the leg from Cowling.
People will enjoy the magical lowland rolling countryside while passing the village of Lothersdale. They will also reach the popular touristic spot of Malham Cove. On their way to Ribblesdale, they can find plenty of lunch spots and cafes. Next, walkers will have the opportunity to witness the beautiful dales scenery while heading to Hawes. From there, people can either continue to Tan Hill or towards Keld, where they can find accommodations.
Additional Unique Stops Along The Pennine Way
From Keld to Bowes, people will appreciate the natural beauty of the North Pennines. From there, they can continue their route, either towards Middleton or to Langdon Beck. The wildest natural features of the walk will be spotted along the way to Dufton, where people will witness Low Force, the stunning first waterfall. Moving further, another waterfall, Cauldron Snout, will also be spotted.
From Dufton, people will continue walking towards Carrigill or Alston, where they will pass the highest point on the trail, Cross Fell. From Alston to Greenhead, people expect a muddy route. From there, they will head to Once Brewed, where they can explore the various attractions along Hadrian’s Wall. Next, walkers will have the chance to soak up the beautiful views along the way from Once Brewed to Bellingham. From there, they will head to the village of Byrness, passing through Conifer Forests. The last part of the trek is lengthy and tiring. It starts at Byrness and ends in Kirk Yetholm, located at the Scottish border.