A view from the Pennine Journey

A whopping 247 miles, The Pennine Journey is a trail not for the feint of heart. Aimed to be tackled in around 18 days you’ll get to know the Pennines very well by the end of your trip. The Circular walk was inspired by the journey of Alfred Wainwright who devised a similar route to reach Hadrian’s wall.

Pennine Journey


    The Pennine Journey takes place in some of the most stunning scenery in Northern England. It was inspired by the walks of Sir Alfred Wainwright who loved walking this part of the country. It takes you through the Yorkshire Dales, County Durham, and along the world-famous Hadrians Wall. The walk has everything, scenery, history, challenge, and lots of amazing Independent Hotels and Bunkhouses along the route.

    The route of the Pennine Journey

    Most commonly walkers begin in Settle and make their way up through limestone territory, drinking in the Yorkshire peaks. Moving over the wonderful Yorkshire Dales before reaching the moors of County Durham.

    Then it is just a little way longer to the goal for Alfred Wainwright’s original walk, Hadrian’s Wall. Walking west for 21 miles you’ll be able to take in some of the sheer scale of this world heritage site. Greenhead is the last stop before heading back down the western side of the Pennines ambling on to Alston there’s lots of opportunity to stop in some wonderful accommodation. Soon after Alston the route reaches its peak as it crosses just below the highest point in the Pennines ( Cross Fell).

    From here the walking eases up with a lovely stretch of downhill through the ever gorgeous Eden Valley, moving on to just edging round the Howgills and then back to Settle. Not a bad 247 miles! Throughout the journey, you’re spoilt for choice of lovely hostels to stay in. Picturesque locations and warm welcomes are a given.

    Another perk of walking this route is that you will actively be supporting the creation of a new national trail! The people behind the trail have the goal of getting it recognised and by getting out on the trail you’re doing just that.