ROUTE OVERVIEW
A ROUGH GUIDE TO YOUR JOURNEY
1 - Start at The Green Dragon Inn
Location: Hardraw, Wensleydale
Point of Interest: Before setting off take a short detour to visit Hardraw Force, the highest single-drop waterfall in England. It's a beautiful sight and a perfect start to your journey.
2 - From Hardraw
Initial Path: Leave Hardraw via the path signed Pennine Way to the west of the bridge over Hardraw Beck. You will be following the Pennine Way, watch for the sign-posts.
Landscape: The path ascends gradually through fields and past traditional dry-stone walls, providing lovely views back towards Wensleydale.
3 - Great Shunner Fell
Elevation: 716 meters (2,349 feet)
Path: The ascent to Great Shunner Fell is steady but long. The path can be quite boggy in places, so good boots are essential.
Summit: At the summit, there is a shelter where you can take a break and enjoy panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales. On clear days, you can see as far as the Lake District and the North York Moors.
4 - Descent to Thwaite
Route: From the summit, descend towards the village of Thwaite. The path is clear but can be steep in parts.
Village: Thwaite is a charming village, a good spot for a rest. There are amenities here, including Kearton Tearooms.
5 - Thwaite to Keld
Route: Leave Thwaite and continue north on the Pennine Way. The path meanders through beautiful meadows and past picturesque barns.
Kisdon Force: Before reaching Keld, watch for Kisdon Force, a series of stunning waterfalls on the River Swale.
6 - Keld
Village: Keld is another quaint village, often regarded as one of the most beautiful in the Yorkshire Dales. A short detour will take you to Keld Green Cafe.
7 - Keld to Tan Hill
Route: The leaves Swaledale valley and climbs towards the moors.
Scenery: The landscape becomes more remote and wild as you approach Tan Hill. The path traverses open moorland, characterised by heather and peat bogs.
Navigation: This section can be tricky in poor visibility, so keep an eye on the Pennine Way markers and use a map and compass.
8 - Approach to Tan Hill
Final Stretch: As you near Tan Hill, the path levels out somewhat, but the terrain remains rugged. You'll start to see the Tan Hill Inn in the distance.
Arrival: The Tan Hill Inn, the highest pub in Britain, is a welcome sight. It offers food, drinks, and accommodation. The inn is renowned for its remote location and stunning surrounding views.
Please note - all forms of outdoor recreation can be potentially hazardous. Risk is always a factor when walking or running on the Pennine Way, especially when weather is adverse. It is your responsibility to learn the skills for safe hiking or trail running, wear the correct outdoor clothing, carry supplies and a trail map.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DRAGON'S ASCENT
The Green Dragon Inn, Hardraw
Nestled within the village of Hardraw, the Green Dragon Inn is a historic 13th pub that serves as a popular starting point for walkers on this section. It's also known for its proximity to Hardraw Force, England's highest single-drop waterfall.
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Hardraw Force Waterfall
A short walk from the Green Dragon Inn, this impressive waterfall is a popular attraction. It plunges 100 feet into a pool below and is a beautiful spot to visit before starting the trek.
The Route
This stretch of the Pennine Way takes you through the stunning Yorkshire Dales, characterized by rolling hills, open moorlands, and traditional stone walls. The terrain can be challenging, with significant elevation changes and sometimes boggy paths.
