Are you interested in completing the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge? This epic guide will take you all the way through what the Yorkshire 3 peaks are, what the challenge entails, to what you should bring and the route you can take. In this extensive post, you'll find all you need for an informed and fun day out tackling some of Yorkshire's highest peaks.
If you're interested in extending your trip to the Yorkshire Dales beyond your adventure of climbing the Yorkshire 3 peaks, check out my guide to a weekend break in Settle, Yorkshire, here!
What are the Yorkshire 3 Peaks?
Whernside (736m), Ingleborough (723m) & Pen-y-ghent (694m) are among the most well-known mountains in Yorkshire, with Whernside and Ingleborough sitting at the top of the list of Yorkshire’s highest mountains. Thousands come to the Yorkshire Dales to summit at least one of these mountains each year, with many conquering all three in one day.
En route to Pen-y-ghent.
Standing at 788m high, you may have heard that Mickle Fell claims the title of the tallest mountain in Yorkshire. While this was true for a time, in 1974, boundary changes moved this mountain into South Teesdale. Now, Mickle Fell is the tallest mountain in County Durham. This remote fell forms part of the Warcop Training Area, meaning public access is more limited than others in the area. If you do want to summit what was once Yorkshire’s tallest mountain, you can still do so by ascending from Eden Valley to the west or from Teesdale to the east. Just make sure to plan this one ahead of time. Access is only open to the public 12 weekends per year. Which weekends? Find out here.
What is the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge?
While many have heard of the UK National 3 Peaks Challenge, the lesser-known Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge is still a feat ready to push your limits. An astonishing 24 miles of walking coupled with 1,585m of ascent is what awaits you, estimated to take the average person around 10-12 hours to complete. A circular route covering all of the Yorkshire 3 peaks is the most common way to complete this challenge. While starting points vary, the traditional start/end point is in the village of Horton-in-Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire.
How Difficult is the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge?
Taking on the Yorkshire 3 peaks is a very popular hiking experience, but that's not to say it's suitable for everyone. While the route is straight forward and only walking is required (no scrambling or climbing over boulders), it is still 24 miles and a decent level of fitness is required.
Naturally, the fitter and more experienced you are, the quicker you'll complete the Yorkshire 3 peaks. Relatively fit hikers will likely take around 8-10 hours, whereas those with less walking experience will find it takes around 12-14 hours. The good news is you can take this journey as slow as you wish and there are plenty of places to rest along the way. My group & I took 11 hours and 59 minutes and we were a mix of varying levels of fitness.
That feeling when you reach the summit!
While fitness is an important element, it cannot be stressed enough how essential the durability of your outfit and your mentality is. If you're wearing inadequate shoes or you haven't worn in your new pair of walking boots, it is highly likely you'll suffer from blisters and be unable to complete the route. It's a long day for anyone, and good mentality is key.
How to Organise the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge
Before we tackle the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge itinerary, it's important to get the organisation out of the way first. From what to pack to where you should park & stay, these are all the key parts you will need to arrange before taking on the hike.
Choosing Your Approach: Solo, Group or Guided Tour?
Deciding whether to complete the challenge as a solo, group or guided walk is the first step in this Yorkshire 3 peaks guide. The circular route isn’t overly complicated but it’s recommended to bring a map and compass with you if you’re taking on the Yorkshire 3 peaks without a guide. Not all turns are sign-posted and you really don’t want to chance a wrong turn on a 10-12 hour hike. Since completing the challenge with a guide, I’d feel completely comfortable re-doing the route solo, even with my map-reading skills, or lack thereof.
Early morning & fresh-faced for the long day ahead.
More recently, I have found GPX files to be a game-changer in navigating routes I'm unfamiliar with. A map is always an important back-up as electronics can be unreliable, but the GPX Viewer mobile app is far superior to Google Maps and other online resources. Download any GPX file of your route in advance and you'll be able to use GPX Viewer offline with their fantastic GPS locator and tracker abilities.
For this challenge, I joined a group that had already organised a charity climb with Alfresco Adventures so I was not part of the planning process. From my own experience, Alfresco Adventures and Large Outdoors are great companies to book guided hikes with. Alternatively, you could go through Airbnb Experiences. I found a guided walk for Ben Nevis & Carrauntoohil this way and had the best experience! Is Ben Nevis next on your list? Stay tuned for my UK 3 peaks guide!
The Packing List
Deciding what to bring on a hike is always the biggest question I have. Too much and you're lugging around extra weight that you don't need, not to mention trying to keep everything organised when rooting around for snacks. Then again, too little and you put yourself at risk should the weather change or you end up straying from your planned route.
That feeling when you've completed summit one of three.
The Yorkshire 3 peaks isn't a complicated hike and you'll likely come across many other hikers on your journey, but that isn't to say you shouldn't be prepared. In the below list, you'll find my recommended packing list for tackling the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge, whether alone or in a group.
Clothing
- Base Layers - lightweight, quick-wicking t-shirt or long-sleeve top paired with walking trousers (zippable are handy in summer) or leggings.
- Insulating Layer - a fleece or down jacket for warmth, consider a lighter fleece in summer months to avoid carrying the extra weight.
- Outer Layer - packable waterproof jackets and trousers are a must, especially when hiking in Yorkshire.
- Hiking Boots/Hiking Trainers - opt for boots if in winter or rainy weather.
- Walking Socks - it's a long day and you really want to reduce the chance of blisters.
- Hat & Gloves - even if it's summer, the weather in Northern England can really take a turn quickly.
- Sunglasses & Cap - for the warmer weather and summer months.
Equipment
- Backpack - 15-20L daypack (I used the Deuter 17L pack)
- Hydration System - approximately 2L water (I used my 1.5L camelbak and a spare 1L water bottle)
- Food - I recommend sandwiches/wraps/pasta for lunch & bananas/protein bars for snacks
- First Aid Kit & Suncream - basic supplies for blisters and other minor injuries. You'll be out and exposed to the elements for up to 12+ hours, so suncream is essential even if it doesn't appear to be a sunny day.
- Navigation Tools - OS map, compass and/or GPS device (essential if you're not hiking with a guide)
Where to Park & Public Transport
You’ll find plenty of parking in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and you’re near the Horton-in-Ribblesdale railway station if you’re using public transport. One of the main train lines for this station is the Leeds-Settle-Carlisle route.
The Yorkshire Dales National Car Park is most commonly used, shown in the map below, at only £5 for the whole day. There's also free public toilets here, always a bonus for the start of a hike! This car park does fill up rather quickly though so it's best to head there early if possible to maximise your chances.
Parking in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, BD24 0HF.
Alternatively, on the B6479, just down the road from The Crown Hotel, farmers and hotels open up the fields for parking. This costs only £3 for the day! Just be aware that this overflow car park is not always available.
If you're looking to park elsewhere and use the bus to make your way to Horton-in-Ribblesdale, check out the North Yorkshire Council bus timetables for possible routes. Just be wary around times as you may find the hike takes you longer than expected. You really don't want to miss the last bus home!
Where to Stay Around the Yorkshire 3 Peaks
The Yorkshire Dales is a beautiful and popular area to visit, especially for nature-enthusiasts and hikers. This makes accommodation easy to source for before/after the hike, or should you want to spend a few extra days here after conquering the Yorkshire 3 peaks. Just be aware that booking in advance is recommended due to the popularity of this area.
Overnight Parking:
- B6479 Layby (Settle, North Yorkshire) - a relatively large layby with fantastic views. Can be noisy during the day but relatively quiet at night.
- B6479 Layby (Stainforth, North Yorkshire) - a secluded layby away from the road, within a couple minute's walking distance of a wild swimming spot.
- Settle Swimming Pool Car Park (Settle, North Yorkshire) - free and quiet car park outside of Settle Swimming Pool. Toilets, showers and a café open during the day with showers costing £4pp. A donation box for the car park can be found by the entrance of the swimming pool.
Campsites:
- Cragg Hill Farm (Horton-in-Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire) - For tent pitches only, this is a peaceful site with fantastic views of Pen-y-Ghent. A perfect starting point for the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge. They also have wooden glamping pods for a more luxurious camping experience, these can be booked here.
- Lodge Park (Settle, North Yorkshire) - just a 10-minute drive to Horton-in-Ribblesdale, this relaxing retreat is suitable for motorhomes, caravans and tents.
- Dalesbridge (Austwick, North Yorkshire) - a spacious and family-run campsite set between the Yorkshire Dales and the Forest of Bowland, and only a 15-minute drive to Horton-in-Ribblesdale. This campsite allows motorhomes, caravans, and tents, with camping pods and cabins also available.
Accommodation:
- The Crown Hotel (Horton-in-Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire) - perfectly located for the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge, this warm and welcoming hotel is popular among walkers. Be advised, booking well in advance is recommended.
- The Golden Lion Hotel (Horton-in-Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire) - enjoy a relaxing stay in Horton-in-Ribblesdale at this conveniently located hotel.
- The Harts Head (Settle, North Yorkshire) - an easy 10-minute drive away from Horton-in-Ribblesdale. This historic inn is surrounded by beautiful views of the Yorkshire Dales and is a perfect base for the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge and other walks.
Where to Eat Around the Yorkshire 3 Peaks
If you begin your journey in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, there's a small but popular snack van on your way to Whernside after completing Pen-y-ghent. This is located by the Ribblehead Viaduct. Even if you don't plan on buying anything, this is a great stopping point for some lunch and a rest. Further up the road, you'll also find the Station Inn where you can buy food & drink, or even use the toilets for a small charity donation.
Little rest stop on the ascent up Whernside.
Once you've successfully completed both Pen-y-ghent and Whernside, you can make your way to Philpin Farm Snack Bar for a well deserved break before facing your final peak. This is located perfectly on the route towards Ingleborough from Whernside, so no detours are needed. There is also a water point and toilets that are free to use and very welcome after all that hard work.
The Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge Itinerary
This Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge itinerary gives you all the details of the circular route you can take to bag all 3 peaks in just one day!
Download the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Circular Route GPX file here.
Pen-y-ghent (694m)
Beginning in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, the first peak you’ll tackle is Pen-y-ghent. From the Yorkshire Dales National Car Park, you’ll start your walk by heading towards the Golden Lion. Follow the road and turn left towards Broad Croft House. From there, follow the tarmac footpath towards Brackenbottom.
En route to Pen-y-ghent.
Once you reach the farm buildings along the route, take the gate on your left, signed Pen-y-ghent. You’ll climb steadily through the fields, with the path growing steeper as you reach Pen-y-ghent. While this is one of the sharpest ascents of the challenge, it’s short-lived and you’ll soon feel that sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit at 694m.
Pen-y-ghent summit (694m).
Once you've had a well-earned rest and photo, you'll make your way roughly north behind the summit wall and zig-zag down. You'll pass the nearby Hunt Pot and reach the head of a walled lane. From here, you'll carry on straight over Whitber Hill until you reach a clear track. At this point, turn right and walk for around 1 mile, then take a left towards Birkwith Cave. You'll reach a tarmac path where you'll turn left and then right, heading onto a track that leads to Nether Lodge.
The route ahead after reaching Pen-y-ghent's summit.
Once you've reached Nether Lodge, continue along the track until you reach the B6479. Turn right onto the road and follow this all the way to Ribblehead Viaduct. This road can be busy at times so it's best to be vigilant along this section.
The route between Pen-y-ghent & Whernside.
Before you continue onto the path to the right of Ribblehead Viaduct, you'll notice a large clearing. This acts as a popular rest stop, vehicle checkpoint, and the location of a snack van. It's a good place to take a break and have some lunch here after the long trek from Pen-y-ghent.
Whernside (736m)
Once you're ready to continue, follow the path along Ribblehead Viaduct, keeping the viaduct on your left. This path is very clear to follow and you'll stay on it for around 1.5 miles.
Ribblehead Viaduct.
After crossing over the railway, you'll begin the climb towards Grain Head. Leave this path by taking the signed route on your left towards Whernside.
Ascending Whernside.
From here the route is a single track towards the summit and a great opportunity to take a break from navigation and enjoy the views.
Whernside summit (736m).
After reaching the summit at 736m, you'll want to continue along the path heading towards the other side of the peak. This route will take you southwards for around 1 mile, then turn left along Philpin Lane. Along this route, just before reaching the B6255, you'll find Philpin Farm Snack Bar for a little rest stop and refreshment.
Looking back at the descent from Whernside summit.
Once you reach the B6255, take a left towards the Old Hill Inn and then a right towards a level grassy path.
Ingleborough (723m)
By following the grassy path, you'll be taken through a number of fields before reaching an area full of limestone. You'll also pass Braithwaite Wife Hole, one of Ingleborough's largest dolines.
Growing closer to Ingleborough.
The path is very clear and will take on a steady ascent towards Ingleborough summit.
Limestone along the route to Ingleborough.
While most of this path is relatively gentle, you will reach a very steep part of the climb, as pictured below. Keep your head down and make your way slowly up this path, and you'll find you've made it up in no time. A rest stop after this is very welcome, you'll certainly be feeling the trek by this point, but you're also so close to the end!
The steep but short-lived ascent.
There's a large clearing at the Ingleborough summit (723m) making it the perfect place to take in the views from one of Yorkshire's tallest peaks. Congratulations, you've completed the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge! All that's left is to make your way back to Horton-in-Ribblesdale.
Ingleborough summit (723m).
From the summit plateau, follow the path heading east towards Horton-in-Ribblesdale. If the weather's not great, follow a bearing of 070 from the trig point, then 100 once the path steepens. You'll descend slowly through the valley and you may find it difficult to keep up your spirits at this point, but just keep putting one foot in front of the other, you're almost done!
On this path, you'll pass cottage ruins and cross another major route. Continue along Sulber Nick, a small, straight valley. You only need to make it through a few more fields and then you'll finally reach Horton-in-Ribblesdale. Check your watch and see how long it's taken for you to complete the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge, then come back here and let me know in the comments below!
To Summarise
Whether you want to complete the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge via this circular route or you want to break the journey up a little, the Explore by Nature Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge guide is a great resource for knowing where to go, what to bring, and the route to take.
Little waterfall en route to Whernside.
Completing the Yorkshire 3 peaks is an incredible achievement and you should feel a lot of pride in your success. If you want your next challenge to be even bigger, check out my guide to the Morocco 3 peaks challenge or a unique UK 3 peaks challenge that can even be done solo!
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