The time it takes to complete the Trail, whether in full or in sections, will vary depending on whether you are walking, cycling or horse riding. When planning your trip, you should also consider factors such as your fitness level, rest breaks and any stops you plan to make along the way.

If you're walking or horse-riding, it usually takes 5 days from the start of the trail in Derbyshire to the Mary Towneley Loop. The Mary Towneley Loop is usually a 3 day horse ride or walk.

If you're cycling, most people take 2 to 3 days to complete the Mary Towneley Loop, although some people take on the challenge of doing it in a day! The Settle Loop can be cycled in a day.

The route runs through the Pennines so expect hills and changeable weather. The most southerly section follows the High Peak Trail, a reclaimed railway line where the surface is relatively level but after this there are more changes (and challenges) in gradient and surface. The South Pennine valleys (crossed by the Mary Towneley Loop) are particularly steep, following a variety of surfaces including minor roads, aggregate tracks, grassed stone tracks, stone setts and worn causey flags. Some of these have been newly created specifically for the Pennine Bridleway but some are ancient highways such as drovers roads or packhorse trails that have been in use for centuries.

The route is not a particularly fast route for horse riders due to the stoney nature of some of the tracks however there are still opportunities to canter. As the route progresses northwards through the Yorkshire Dales it becomes more remote and the settlements are fewer so Trail users should be sure to carry supplies, including a map and guidebook and be prepared for all weather conditions.

Most people start in the south and head north as the southern section of the Pennine Bridleway offers an easier and gentler start to the trail and guidebooks are written in this direction.

This National Trail has been developed in particular for cyclists and horse riders, although it is of course open to walkers too. All users share the same path, so it is important that everyone is considerate of others, cyclists must give way to walkers and horses.

Your dog is welcome on the Pennine Bridleway National Trail, there are no awkward stiles to encounter and many stretches of the route are enclosed. However, in places the Pennine Bridleway National Trail crosses open moorland where sheep may be grazing or ground nesting birds breeding so please ensure you have your dog under control. Dog owners also need to be aware of cyclists using the route who may be travelling at speed and ensure that their dog is under control should they meet horses on the Trail. Try to avoid walking close to cows with calves, if you encounter any aggression release your dog, do not try to pick it up.  

The best time to complete this Trail is April to October, when the weather is most favourable. However the route itself can be steep and exposed, so be prepared, especially if you are planning a journey of a day or more. 

We sell a range of Pennine Bridleway merchandise including enamel badges, sew on badges, mugs and other merchandise.

Our personalised Pennine Bridleway completion certificate is a great momento for anyone that has completed the trail.