Walk of the Month: June 2018

Where to wander this month: Whernside – a walk to the highest point in Yorkshire.

With the beautiful weather we’ve been having looking set to continue, we think this is the perfect time to spend a day tackling Whernside – the highest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

This 7.5 mile loop walk offers spectacular views from the summit of Morecambe Bay & The Lake District, and of course the other two Yorkshire Peaks, Pen-y-Ghent & Ingleborough. You will also be treated to up close and personal views of the stunning Ribblehead Viaduct, and Force Gill Waterfall.

Starting from the road follow one of the many paths towards Ribblehead, which eventually all meet on the stone track. Do not follow the track under the viaduct, keep it on your left and follow the path up hill alongside the railway.

Upon reaching the aqueduct the path takes you over the railway and then turns to the right towards a high point known as Grain Head. Follow the fence and keep an eye out for the stile, there will be a signpost here for the Whernside Summit. You are now on the final steady climb to the summit, along the ridge. When you reach the very top, the trig point is behind the wall through a narrow stile. Stop for a while to enjoy the beautiful views from both sides of the wall.

Once you are ready to descend, follow the wall along the ridge towards Ingleborough in the distance – Make sure you are not still on the trig point side of the wall before you set off.

After a mile you will follow a signpost for Bruntscar Farm. Please be aware that the descent is steep and there are many stone pitched steps, so make sure to take your time.

Eventually the path levels out through a field, and reaches a track by a barn. Upon reaching the farm track turn left following the signpost for Winterscales. When you reach Ivescar Farm turn right by the farmhouse and then left onto the footpath back towards Ribblehead Viaduct. After a number of fields you will get to a stone track where you will turn left. Shortly afterwards you will turn right over a wooden bridge, bringing you onto the clear stone track which takes you underneath the incredible arches of the viaduct, and back to your starting point.

After your walk why not treat yourself to some refreshment at the lovely Station Inn , offering traditional pub favoutites, a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, and hot drinks.

For the walk map please see – Whernside-walk-for-web