Walking the Pennine Way

Explore England's iconic Pennine Way National Trail, a formidable 426km (265-mile) route along the spine of northern England from Edale in the Peak District to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders, crossing three national parks (Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland) plus the North Pennines National Landscape. This challenging classic for fit, experienced walkers traces high exposed moorlands, rugged fells, and dramatic landmarks such as Kinder Scout, Malham Cove, High Cup, Cross Fell, and Hadrian’s Wall.

This trusted Cicerone guidebook by expert author Paddy Dillon provides everything you need to walk the Pennine Way with confidence. The trail is described from south to north in 20 stages of 11–32km (7–20miles) and typically takes around three weeks to complete. A separate OS 1:25,000 map booklet shows the full route line, making navigation straightforward even across the exposed moorlands.

Each stage has a detailed route description alongside OS mapping and elevation profiles, so you always know what's ahead on the ‘backbone of England’
A comprehensive stage facilities planner gives vital information on accommodation (hostels, B&Bs, hotels and campsites) and other facilities along the route in key towns and villages such as Malham, Hawes and Dufton
Practical planning advice is included on when to go, what to take and how to tackle the particular challenges of the boggy, wild moorland characteristic of this trail
Alongside the map booklet, downloadable GPX files provide a digital navigation option for the entire Pennine Way for use on smartphones and GPS devices
Background on Pennine geology, scenery (Helm Wind, Brontë Country), wildlife, and plant life enriches your journey through Stoodley Pike and the Cheviot Hills


Walking one of Britain's original and toughest National Trails is a true test of endurance and resilience, taking you through England’s wild heartlands and upland beauty. With this Cicerone guidebook as your companion, you’ll have the detailed maps, stage planning tools, and expert guidance you need to tackle the Pennine Way.

Seasons

This National Trail is essentially a summer walk, though it can be completed in spring or autumn, the winter months are solely for dedicated and experienced long-distance walkers.

Centres

Edale, Crowden, Hebden Bridge, Cowling, Gargrave, Malham, Horton in Ribblesdale, Hawes, Keld, Bowes, Middleton-in-Teesdale, Dufton, Alston, Hadrian's Wall, Bellingham, Byrness, Kirk Yetholm

Difficulty

The Pennine Way is a challenging walk, often across high, exposed moorlands. No problems on fine, sunny days, but some parts can be exceptionally difficult in bad weather. In mist, careful navigation is required, but on the whole the route is well-signposted. Suitable for backpackers and youth hostellers, but ample B&B accommodation is also available. Previous long-distance walking experience is an advantage.

Must See

Peak District National Park - Kinder Scout, Bleaklow and Black Hill; South Pennines - Stoodley Pike and Brontë Country; Yorkshire Dales National Park - Malham Cove, Pen-y-Ghent and Great Shunner Fell; North Pennines AONB - Teesdale, High Cup and Cross Fell; Northumberland National Park - Hadrian's Wall and the Cheviot Hills