Yorkshire 3 Peaks

Tucked in the West corner of North Yorkshire, ‘the 3 peaks’ area awaits you. The Yorkshire 3 Peaks are Ingleborough, Pen-y-Ghent and Whernside. Those who have done the route from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, at 24 miles, may be looking for the next challenge, which could mean starting/finishing in Ingleton village, making the route nearer 30 miles and a longer ascent up Ingleborough out of the village. The website http://www.yorkshirepeakschallenge.co.uk has some very useful advice about the route, what you will need, and preparation for your time in the Yorkshire 3 Peaks area. You may want to consider booking a guide, who can ensure you make the most of the day and provide support and encouragement – details on the above website.

If taking on the hiking challenge isn’t for you, there’s plenty more to occupy you in this corner of the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy the views towards The Peaks from nearby villages and Ribblehead Viaduct, from where you can see all 3. There’s a disclaimer here, because if there’s low cloud, you probably won’t be able to see the tops! It’s still an atmospheric place to visit, to admire the viaduct and you may see a steam train, which adds to the romance of the location.

Likewise, hiking 1 Peak a day could be more your speed, taking in the views and scenery. You will find a wide range of places to stay, so that you can make a holiday of it, including campsites, bunk barns, bed and breakfasts or traditional inns. There are show caves near Ingleton (White Scar) and Clapham (Ingleborough Cave) which can be visited most days and provide scenery of the underground kind. There are professional guides in the area who can also take you underground to the cave and potholing systems, the largest in the Country being the ‘3 Counties system’, with passages of just under 54 miles. Twice a year, for just over a week in May and August, there’s the opportunity to really get underground, by taking the winch chair decent down in to Gaping Ghyll (or Gill). The area volume is just larger than the nave of York Minster. You cannot book in advance, so take a look at the websites for the Craven and Bradford Potholing clubs who set up these winch meets and divert the river especially for the event.

The Waterfalls Trail at Ingleton is also a very good hike, with many ‘ups and downs’ as you follow the paths along the rivers and admire the waterfalls. Make sure you bring your boots and camera, to make the most of the trail and its views.

Whichever walk or scenic drive you have enjoyed during the day, there’s a selection of places to eat and have a friendly chat with a celebratory drink or two nearby. Ingleton has pubs and restaurants, and a wide range given that it’s only a village.

Make a holiday of it and check out the shops, pottery and heated outdoor swimming pool too.