The Pennine Bridleway is a 205 mile (330 km) long National Trail running through the Pennine hills from Derbyshire to Cumbria. If you're thinking of walking, riding or cycling the trail, browse our collection of guidebooks and maps.
The Pennine Bridleway National Trail has been especially designed for horse riders, and is also great for mountain bikers and walkers. The Trail has two potential starting points in Derbyshire, the main one being at Middleton Top visitor centre on the High Peak Trail near Wirksworth. The second start point, which is recommended for horse riders, is at Hartington Station on the Tissington Trail.
This National Trail includes 2 large loops. The first is the Mary Towneley Loop in the South Pennines, this is 47 miles long and makes a great weekend’s walk or ride. The 2nd Loop is the 10 mile Settle Loop in the Yorkshire Dales, making an excellent day's walk or horse ride and can be extended by using the bridleway network to take in the village of Malham too.
Highlights of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail include the vibrant, clean and green Chee Dale Nature Reserve; the Kinder plateau which provide stunning views either side of the exhilarating Roych Clough; panoramic views of the Pennines and the valleys of Calderdale, Rochdale and Lancashire; the 6 compartmented water trough at Mankinholes where packhorse ponies stopped for rest and the famous Rochdale Canal.
New paths link with old and zig zag up down and across the Lancashire moors en-route to the village of Wycoller with its ancient packhorse bridge. The north Lancashire stretch offers a more pastoral scene and a bit of a breather before reaching the Dales. The Yorkshire Dales section features classic limestone landscapes of Malham and the Yorkshire peaks of Ingleborough and Whernside. The views just keep coming once up on Lady Anne’s Highway with views along the Mallerstang valley and a final push from the High Dolphinsty to the Cumbrian village of Ravenstonedale.
How long does it take to complete the Pennine Bridleway National Trail, end to end?
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.
How difficult is the Pennine Bridleway National Trail?
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.
Which direction should I walk/ride the Pennine Bridleway National Trail in?
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.
Who can enjoy the Pennine Bridleway National Trail?
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.
Can I bring my dog on the Pennine Bridleway National Trail?
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.
What is the best time of year to walk on the Pennine Bridleway National Trail?
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.
Can I buy Pennine Bridleway National Trail merchandise?
We sell a range of Pennine Bridleway merchandise including enamel badges, sew on badges, mugs and other merchandise.
Can I get a Pennine Bridleway National Trail completion certificate?
Our personalised Pennine Bridleway completion certificate is a great momento for anyone that has completed the trail.