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Pen-y-ghent

694m Elevation
304m Prominence
England Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Pen-y-ghent from Horton in Ribbonsdale

10.1 km ~3h 50m Hard

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Ingleborough from Clapham

~5h Hard

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Buckden Pike Wellington Wreckage and Memorial

9.7 km ~4h 30m Hard

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Malham Landscape Trail: Janet's Foss, Gordale Scar, and Malham Cove

8.1 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Classic Pen-y-ghent Circular Route

This popular route starts and ends in the village of Horton-in-Ribblesdale. Follow the Pennine Way initially, heading southeast to ascend Pen-y-ghent via its well-trodden stone steps. After reaching the summit, descend via the western path that loops back into Horton-in-Ribblesdale, offering stunning views of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales.

10 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Pen-y-ghent via Brackenbottom

This straightforward route begins in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and follows the Brackenbottom Scar path. The ascent offers a slightly steeper but direct route to the summit. Descend via the Pennine Way to complete the loop, enjoying views of the limestone landscape.

9 km ~3 hours Moderate

Pen-y-ghent and Plover Hill Circular

This extended route combines Pen-y-ghent with the neighbouring Plover Hill. Starting in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, ascend Pen-y-ghent via the Pennine Way. From the summit, continue north to Plover Hill, before descending westward along Foxup Moor and looping back via Horton Scar Lane.

14 km ~5 hours Challenging

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Route (Pen-y-ghent Section)

Tackle Pen-y-ghent as part of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Starting in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, ascend Pen-y-ghent via the Pennine Way, then proceed toward Whernside and Ingleborough. This route is ideal for those looking for a full-day challenge encompassing all three iconic peaks.

38 km ~12 hours Very Challenging

Pen-y-ghent Short Out-and-Back

For a quick summit, this out-and-back route begins in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and follows the Pennine Way directly to the top of Pen-y-ghent. Return by the same route, making it a good option for those short on time but still wanting to experience the peak.

6.5 km ~2 hours Easy to Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall

Elevation

694m

2,277 ft

Prominence

304m

Coordinates

54.1560, -2.2487

SD838733

OS Map

98

Explorer: OL2W

At the Summit

The summit boasts a trig point along with impressive panoramic views of the Dales, which will make your neck ache from all that sightseeing.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths grassy slopes and the occasional boggy patch that might give you a good laugh when you misstep.

Composed primarily of limestone, Pen-y-ghent features impressive carboniferous rock formations, distinctive for its steep cliffs and rolling hills.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the stunning peaks of the Yorkshire Dales, including Whernside and Ingleborough, alongside the sprawling countryside.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Pen-y-ghent' derives from the Old Norse 'pen', meaning 'hill', and 'g'hent', which is thought to refer to the hill's prominent prominence.

Historical Significance

Pen-y-ghent is one of the 'Three Peaks' of Yorkshire, holding great significance for walkers and climbers, as well as being intertwined with local folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a large car park at Horton-in-Ribblesdale, which is well signposted and often busy, particularly on weekends.

Public Transport

Horton-in-Ribblesdale railway station is nearby, serviced by Northern Rail, perfect for those keen on avoiding the hassle of driving.

Nearby Facilities

Horton-in-Ribblesdale offers a couple of cafes and public toilets; be sure to fuel up before your adventure!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for slippery paths, particularly in wet conditions. Sudden weather changes can occur, so bring a waterproof layer and your best British resolve.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Pen-y-ghent?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Pen-y-ghent through the maps

Are there other walkers around Pen-y-ghent?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Pen-y-ghent search or of course create your own walk for Pen-y-ghent

Can I organise a walk to Pen-y-ghent?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Pen-y-ghent.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Pen-y-ghent?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Pen-y-ghent here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SD838733

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