Walk the Pennine Way

Walking the Pennine Way is a challenging and rewarding adventure through some of Northern England’s most dramatic landscapes. This iconic trail stretches approximately 268 miles (431 kilometers) from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm, just across the Scottish border. It traverses the rugged backbone of England, offering stunning scenery, remote wilderness, and rich history.

Key Features of the Pennine Way

Length: About 268 miles (431 kilometers).
Start and End Points: The southern end begins in Edale, in the Peak District National Park, and the northern terminus is in the village of Kirk Yetholm, Scotland.
Terrain: The trail covers a variety of landscapes including moorland, rolling hills, and upland areas. It includes some steep climbs and can be challenging due to the often boggy conditions.
Typical Duration: Most walkers complete the trail in about three weeks, though it varies depending on pace and weather conditions.

Highlights of the Pennine Way

Kinder Scout: The highest point in the Peak District and site of the famous 1932 mass trespass.
High Cup Nick: A dramatic U-shaped valley offering spectacular views.
Cross Fell: The highest point of the Pennine Range, offering expansive views across the North Pennines.
Hadrian’s Wall: The trail overlaps with this historic Roman wall, offering a chance to explore ancient ruins and museums.
The Cheviot Hills: The rugged terrain provides a fittingly challenging finale to the trail before reaching Scotland.

Planning Your Walk

Accommodation: Options range from camping and bunkhouses to guesthouses and hotels. Booking ahead is essential, especially in the more remote areas.
Transportation: The start point at Edale is accessible by train from Manchester or Sheffield. Public transport options are more limited at the northern end, but there are bus services from Kirk Yetholm to nearby towns.
Supplies: Some stretches of the Pennine Way are remote with limited services, so it’s crucial to plan where you will resupply. Carrying sufficient food and water is a must.
Waymarking: The trail is well-marked with the National Trail acorn symbol. A map and compass are still essential, especially on the more remote sections.
Weather and Clothing: The weather can be highly unpredictable and can change rapidly. Waterproof clothing and durable, comfortable boots are essential. Be prepared for boggy conditions underfoot in many areas.

Tips for Walking the Pennine Way

Physical Preparation: Given the length and challenging nature of the trail, physical fitness is crucial. Some prior long-distance walking experience is recommended.
Safety Precautions: The remote nature of much of the trail means that walkers need to be self-sufficient and prepared for emergencies. A charged mobile phone, GPS, and basic first aid kit are essentials.
Leave No Trace: Respect the natural environment by sticking to the path, carrying out all litter, and keeping noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Engage with the Locals: The Pennine Way passes through many small communities. Local pubs, cafes, and residents are often very welcoming to walkers and can provide invaluable local knowledge and history.

The Pennine Way is not just a walk; it’s an epic journey through some of the most scenic and challenging landscapes that England has to offer. It tests resilience and offers immense rewards in the form of stunning views, wildlife encounters, and the satisfaction of completing one of the UK’s toughest and most famous long-distance walks.

Pennine Way Interactive Map

Route map for Pennine Way by Eden Donald on plotaroute.com

16 Day Walking – Pennine Way

Stage	Start Point	Distance (Miles)	Ascend / Descend (Feet)
Day 1	Edale to Crowden	16
Day 2	Crowden to Standedge	11
Day 3	Standedge to Calder Valley	11
Day 4	Calder Valley to Ickornshaw	16
Day 5	Ickornshaw to Malham	17
Day 6	Malham to Horton in Ribblesdale	14.5
Day 7	Horton in Ribblesdale to Hawes	14
Day 8	Hawes to Tan Hill	16.5
Day 9	Tan Hill to Middleton-in-Teesdale	17
Day 10	Middleton-in-Teesdale to Dufton	21
Day 11	Dufton to Alston	20
Day 12	Alston to Greenhead	16.5
Day 13	Greenhead to Bellingham	22
Day 14	Bellingham to Byrness	15
Day 15	Byrness to Windy Gate	14
Day 16	Windy Gate to Kirk Yetholm	13