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Yorkshire Three Peaks

This page provides all the information you will ever need to know about the Yorkshire Three Peaks Walk / Challenge.  In particular you will find details on the full route, starting point options, public transport, parking and facilities for day visitors.  Additionally, it provides suggestions for accommodation and places of interest for anyone planning to stay within the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Respectfully, it also provides guidance on how you can ensure your visit is travel conscious towards this unique environment and those who live here.  Markedly, it is vital that others can follow in your footsteps along the 24mile route of the Yorkshire Three Peaks for many years to come.

If we have missed anything then please do contact us so we can add it to this page.

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Route

The peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside are known collectively as the Yorkshire Three Peaks. They are often walked as a circular route taking in all three mountains simultaneously in one day.

The route is 24 miles (38.6km) long and involves 5000 ft (1600 metres) of vertical ascent.  The GPX and description can be downloaded here.  Additionally, this 3D fly-thru should help put each of the 24miles into perspective!

Where can I start my walk?

The full 24mile hike can be tackled in both a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction.  Also, you can commence at any point along the Yorkshire Three Peaks route.  Although you need to end at the same point you started it to complete the loop.

Starting points

The three main places that visitors start from are as follows:

  • The village of Horton-in-Ribblesdale.  Also, for visitors staying nearby in one of its hamlets i.e. Newhouses.
  • Ribblehead Viaduct.  Also, for visitors staying nearby in one of its hamlets i.e. Gearstones.
  • Chapel-le-Dale / B6255. However, this is a narrow busy road with limited roadside parking on rough terrain so best avoided.

How do I get to this part of the Yorkshire Dales?

Car

Most people come to do the Yorkshire Three Peaks by car. Why not try to reduce your impact by coming by train or car-sharing with your friends?

Train

The famous Settle-Carlisle Railway runs through the area and has stations at Settle, Horton-in Ribblesdale and Ribblehead.  Consequently, these stations provide great access to the area.

The Yorkshire Three Peaks walk is extremely popular.  Therefore, please help to keep the Three Peaks special for all to enjoy by following the Yorkshire Three Peaks Code of Conduct.

What facilities are there along the route?

Food and Drink

There are lots of excellent cafes, pubs and shops in the Three Peaks area, but don’t expect to find any shops at the top of any of the Yorkshire Three Peaks!

It is recommended that you stock up on food and drink before you set off on your walk.  Otherwise you are at risk of becoming dehydrated and fatigued.

Buying your provisions locally is a great way to support the local economy and communities.  But remember to take all your litter and banana skins home with you!

Accommodation walkable to the Yorkshire Three Peaks

Accommodation

The Three Peaks can be challenging, so it can be a good idea to book local accommodation for before and/or after your walk.  This is especially a good way to support the local economy.

The area has a huge number of places to stay, either near the route or in one of the surrounding hamlets.  Furthermore, there are plenty of different types of accommodation to suit all budgets.

Note that weekends during spring and summer can book up well in advance so make your plans early and also consider mid-week options.  These are usually cheaper and not surprisingly, also bring the benefit of being less busy.

Check out our accommodation and its availability here.