The Pennine Way Southern Route: 9 days
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Hotel accommodations
This trail is known as being the longest in England, or the 'father' of the longest trails in this country, which will take you along the Pennines, also known as "the backbone of England".
Along the way, you'll find magnificent natural, historical and geological scenery such as Hardraw Force, the highest waterfall or Cross Fell, listed as the coldest place in England. Explore wide stretches of the Peak District National Park and Yorkshire Dales National Park.
- Journey on one of Britain's longest and most difficult trails, according to “The Ramblers” (a walking charity).
- Get to know the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, the longest in England.
- Visit Top Withins Farm, which inspired Emily Bronte to write “Wuthering Heights”.
- Explore the stunning Gordale Scar gorge and the imposing Malham Cove.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Edale
Spend your first night in this small town in the Peak District, located at the southern end of the Pennines.
It is surrounded by extensive fields where you can tour the Kinder Scout Plateau in the north or the peak in the east of town. You can also take an excursion along the River Noe.
It is surrounded by extensive fields where you can tour the Kinder Scout Plateau in the north or the peak in the east of town. You can also take an excursion along the River Noe.
Overnight in Edale
The Rambler Inn & Holiday Cottage
This country inn offers rooms with a TV, desk and toiletries. In addition, you will have beautiful mountain views that adorn the Edale landscape.
You can enjoy the bar area or beer garden which offers a variety of dishes and spirits.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
You can enjoy the bar area or beer garden which offers a variety of dishes and spirits.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Edale to Glossop 15,2 miles | 24,5 km
Today's route will take you to the Peak District National Park via the Kinder Scout moorland plateau and National Nature Reserve. To ascend, you will have to cross the rocky path called Jacob's Ladder.
If the day allows, from the top you will have beautiful views of the city of Manchester, Winter Hill or the Snowdonia Mountains in north Wales.
Then, by taking Snake Pass, you will reach Bleaklow Moor, from where it is possible to see the town of Glossop.
Later, once in Torside, you will have an inclusive transfer to Glossop, where you will spend the night.
If the day allows, from the top you will have beautiful views of the city of Manchester, Winter Hill or the Snowdonia Mountains in north Wales.
Then, by taking Snake Pass, you will reach Bleaklow Moor, from where it is possible to see the town of Glossop.
Later, once in Torside, you will have an inclusive transfer to Glossop, where you will spend the night.
Overnight in Glossop
The Queens Arms
The Queens Arms Country Inn in located in the historic and picturesque village of Old Glossop in Derbyshire. The Queens provides a warm welcome, comfortable Peak District accommodation, both traditional pub food accompanied by real ales and an authentic Indian restaurant.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Glossop to Diggle 12,6 miles | 20,4 km
Your day will start with an inclusive transfer from Glossop to Torside. On arrival, you will walk along the banks of the Torside Reservoir, the largest man-made lake in Longendale Valley, to reach Laddow Rocks, where a long ascent awaits. Once you get the top, you'll have amazing views of the Peak District.
Following the route, you will reach another of the moors in this region: Black Hill. You will descend through Wessenden Valley to reach Standedge, where the Peak District National Park ends. From here, you will head to Diggle for the night.
From Standedge Cutting you will head to Diggle for the night. It is possible to walk to Diggle or, if you wish, you can take a transfer on your own account.
Following the route, you will reach another of the moors in this region: Black Hill. You will descend through Wessenden Valley to reach Standedge, where the Peak District National Park ends. From here, you will head to Diggle for the night.
From Standedge Cutting you will head to Diggle for the night. It is possible to walk to Diggle or, if you wish, you can take a transfer on your own account.
Overnight in Diggle
Sunfield B&B Diggle
Enjoy the magnificent views of the Saddleworth Moor on the edge of the Pennines and high quality en-suite bed and breakfast. Sunfield is situated in Diglea, that is considered to be the first settlement in Saddleworth.
All rooms are ground level with easy access in and out of the premises. Nearby are facilities for horse riding, fishing and golfing.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
All rooms are ground level with easy access in and out of the premises. Nearby are facilities for horse riding, fishing and golfing.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Diggle to Hebden Bridge 15,5 miles | 25 km
Today's walk starts in Standedge Cutting. You can reach this location on foot or take a self-drive from Diggle.
The walk will have a few ascents that will take you high up into the moors, a characteristic ecosystem in this region. You will be able to enjoy the tranquillity of this natural space, away from all the congestion of the surrounding urban areas.
The stretch will take you to discover Aiggin Stone, an archaic cairn believed to date back to the Roman period. Further along, you will see Stoodley Pike, a 37-metre monument, which was built in 1815 to commemorate Napoleon's defeat after the Battle of Waterloo.
Continue as the road takes you on a steady descent to the town of Hebden Bridge.
The walk will have a few ascents that will take you high up into the moors, a characteristic ecosystem in this region. You will be able to enjoy the tranquillity of this natural space, away from all the congestion of the surrounding urban areas.
The stretch will take you to discover Aiggin Stone, an archaic cairn believed to date back to the Roman period. Further along, you will see Stoodley Pike, a 37-metre monument, which was built in 1815 to commemorate Napoleon's defeat after the Battle of Waterloo.
Continue as the road takes you on a steady descent to the town of Hebden Bridge.
Overnight in Hebden Bridge
The Cross Inn
The Cross Inn Hebden Bridge is a 2-star property approximately 5 minutes' walk from Heptonstall Methodist Chapel.
The Cross Inn features an English breakfast daily. Guests can quench their thirst in the garden bar with their favourite drink. The rooms have all the necessary qualities to provide you with a good rest.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The Cross Inn features an English breakfast daily. Guests can quench their thirst in the garden bar with their favourite drink. The rooms have all the necessary qualities to provide you with a good rest.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Hebden Bridge to Ponden 12,1 miles | 19,6 km
After leaving Hebden Bridge, you will walk along the Rochdale Canal to leave the town and, following the route, you will reach the village of Colden. You will cross Colden Water and later arrive at the large fields at Heptonstall Moor.
To the north, you will come across the Gorple and Walshaw Dean reservoirs. Further on, you will see the impressive ruins of Top Withins, a farm known as the possible inspiration for Emily Bronte's famous novel "Wuthering Heights".
After visiting this tourist spot, follow Stanbury Moor from where you have a panoramic view of Ponden Reservoir and the village where you will stay.
To the north, you will come across the Gorple and Walshaw Dean reservoirs. Further on, you will see the impressive ruins of Top Withins, a farm known as the possible inspiration for Emily Bronte's famous novel "Wuthering Heights".
After visiting this tourist spot, follow Stanbury Moor from where you have a panoramic view of Ponden Reservoir and the village where you will stay.
Overnight in Ponden
Ponden Mill B&B
Ponden Mill has two luxury Bed and Breakfast rooms. Both are en-suite and have been recently refurbished to fit in with the original style and character of the mill. Both have amazing views over the river and farmland, and are withing easy walk of all the local attractions.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Ponden to Gargrave 16,7 miles | 27 km
Today you will enjoy exciting walks through picturesque moorland with challenging climbs. You will start by ascending Old Bess Hill, from where you will also enjoy some great panoramic views of Ponden. As you continue on, you will pass close to Oakworth Moor and Ickornshaw Moor. From here you will descend into the village of Lothersdale.
You will again have an ascent that takes you up to the small village of Thorton in Craven. Along a section of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, you will reach East Marton, recognisable by the double-arched bridge over the canal.
In the middle of heather fields, grazing farms and quiet trails you will reach Gargrave, in the Craven district and starting point to visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
You will again have an ascent that takes you up to the small village of Thorton in Craven. Along a section of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, you will reach East Marton, recognisable by the double-arched bridge over the canal.
In the middle of heather fields, grazing farms and quiet trails you will reach Gargrave, in the Craven district and starting point to visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Overnight in Gargrave
The Masons Arms
Enjoy your stay in this cosy hotel that has rooms equipped with a TV, bathroom and Wi-Fi. In addition, you can enjoy the menu and drinks in the pub.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Gargrave to Malham 6,5 miles | 10,5 km
This short section of the Pennine Way mainly follows the course of the River Aire, which is 114km (70 miles) long and is the most important tributary in the historic county of Yorkshire.
The day's route will be straightforward, with little elevation gain and easy access, however, at the end of the path you will have a short but steep climb, which requires a little effort.
Continue as you enjoy the walk to Malham, a small village known for Malham Cave, Gordale Scar Gorge and Janet's Foss Waterfall.
The day's route will be straightforward, with little elevation gain and easy access, however, at the end of the path you will have a short but steep climb, which requires a little effort.
Continue as you enjoy the walk to Malham, a small village known for Malham Cave, Gordale Scar Gorge and Janet's Foss Waterfall.
Overnight in Malham
Beck Hall
The hotel is located within walking distance of Malham's biggest attractions and tourist attractions. It has 21 equipped rooms, all with a private bathroom.
You can enjoy meals elaborated with local products in the restaurant, bar or have beautiful views from the terrace.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
You can enjoy meals elaborated with local products in the restaurant, bar or have beautiful views from the terrace.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Malham to Horton-in-Ribblesdale 15 miles | 24 km
Today's journey will take you to the previously mentioned Malham Cove, a large limestone formation, spanning a huge cliff 80m high by 300m wide. Once at the top, the views across the valley are breathtaking.
Continue north to Malham Tarn, England's highest glacial lake and part of the eight alkaline lakes that make up the Highlands of Europe. You'll climb Fountains Fell at 668 metres above sea level, and reach Silverdale Valley.
There, you will climb Pen-y-ghent, the lowest of Yorkshire's Three Peaks, at 694m. Before descending to Horton-in-Ribblesdale, stop to admire Silverdale Valley and the surrounding hills.
Continue north to Malham Tarn, England's highest glacial lake and part of the eight alkaline lakes that make up the Highlands of Europe. You'll climb Fountains Fell at 668 metres above sea level, and reach Silverdale Valley.
There, you will climb Pen-y-ghent, the lowest of Yorkshire's Three Peaks, at 694m. Before descending to Horton-in-Ribblesdale, stop to admire Silverdale Valley and the surrounding hills.
Overnight in Horton-in-Ribblesdale
Middle Studfold Farm B&B
This 19th-century farmhouse was restored to provide travellers with comfortable, fully equipped rooms. It offers free Wi-Fi and packed lunches and dinners.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Horton-in-Ribblesdale
Your adventure on this stretch of Pennine Way is over. If you liked it, we recommend you consider taking the complete route.
To return home, or continue to another destination, from Horton-in-Ribblesdale train station you can head to any city in England.
End of our services.
To return home, or continue to another destination, from Horton-in-Ribblesdale train station you can head to any city in England.
End of our services.
Itinerary map
Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel assistance insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & transfers
The easiest way to get there is from Manchester, where you can take a train from the airport on a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
If you arrive in London, you can take a train to Manchester Piccadilly station, and from there, head to Edale.
From Horton-in-Ribblesdale train station, you can head to any city in England, depending on your next destination. Although the nearest airport is Leeds Airport.
If you arrive in London, you can take a train to Manchester Piccadilly station, and from there, head to Edale.
From Horton-in-Ribblesdale train station, you can head to any city in England, depending on your next destination. Although the nearest airport is Leeds Airport.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 40 lbs (18 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is one of the most complicated in the UK, so good physical preparation is important to be able to enjoy it to the fullest.
If you have no experience in walking, it is advisable that you take another route of less difficulty and intensity. Although if you want to venture out, we recommend walking through challenging terrain at least 3 months in advance.
Another tip is to train in the gym, or with a personal trainer to improve your fitness with cardio and endurance exercises.
What is the best time of year to complete this route?
The best time is in spring and autumn, when weather conditions are favourable for walking the wooded paths, moors and other sections on the route.
In summer, the sun will be much stronger, and in winter the weather conditions are too extreme to take the route.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you.
If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
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