Whernside Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
737m
2,417 ft
Prominence
408m
Coordinates
54.2290, -2.4020
SD738815
OS Map
98
Explorer: OL2W
The summit of Whernside is home to a stone trig point, a classic sight for hikers, and offers a large area suitable for resting and taking in the views. It's not uncommon to spot fellow hikers here, all wondering if they brought enough snacks.
Whernside is primarily composed of limestone, a sedimentary rock that dates back to the Carboniferous period. The surrounding landscape features impressive limestone pavements and dry stone walls, characteristic of the area. The summit is adorned with a rocky plateau that’s shaped by glacial activity, giving it its dramatic contours.
From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales, including Ingleborough and the Ribblehead Viaduct. On a clear day, the Lake District mountains can also be spotted in the distance.
The name 'Whernside' is likely derived from Old English, with 'whern' referring to a 'whirl' or 'bend'—perhaps a nod to the shapes of the land and its surroundings.
Whernside is not only a prominent feature in the Yorkshire Dales but also part of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, attracting walkers who relish a good leg-stretch followed by a celebratory pint.
This iconic route is part of the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge and is a well-trodden path to Whernside. Starting from the Ribblehead Viaduct, the route ascends via the Dales High Way, offering breathtaking views of the viaduct and surrounding landscape. The summit provides panoramic vistas of Ingleborough, Pen-y-ghent, and the surrounding countryside. The descent follows a clear path down to Bruntscar, looping back to Ribblehead.
A popular circular route starting at Ribblehead Viaduct. The path follows a steady ascent via the western slopes of Whernside, passing by aqueducts and open moorland. Reaching the summit ridge, walkers are rewarded with sweeping views. The descent takes a different path via Bruntscar Farm, eventually rejoining the outward route near the viaduct.
This quieter route begins in Dentdale, offering a less crowded ascent to Whernside. Starting from the village of Dent, the trail follows lush valleys and old packhorse tracks before ascending to the summit. The route provides a peaceful alternative with unique views of the Howgills and the Yorkshire Dales.
This scenic circular route starts from Kingsdale. The track climbs steadily to Whernside’s summit, offering dramatic views of Kingsdale and beyond. The descent heads towards Twisleton Scar End, taking in limestone scenery before looping back to Kingsdale.
A linear route starting in Ingleton, this walk ascends Whernside via the village of Chapel-le-Dale. The path combines a mix of farmland, limestone pavements, and rugged mountain trails. Ideal for those who prefer a point-to-point challenge, the route can be extended to include nearby Ingleborough for a more demanding day out.
The nearest parking for Whernside is at Ribblehead, where there’s a small car park suitable for approximately 20 vehicles. Be sure to arrive early, particularly on weekends to nab a spot.
Regular trains run to Ribblehead from Settle or Carlisle. The Ribblehead station is just a short walk from the start of the walking routes.
There are no facilities directly on Whernside, but nearby Ingleton has pubs, cafes, and toilets. The Ribblehead area also has picnic spots mainly on the approach trails.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Whernside through the maps
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 Whernside search or of course create your own walk for Whernside
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 Whernside.
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.
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.
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Grid Ref: SD738815
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