Opened in 1965 as Britain's first National Trail, the Pennine Way runs from Edale in the Peak District to Kirk Yetholm just over the Scottish border, crossing the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Teesdale, the North Pennines and the Cheviots. It has a reputation as the hardest of England's National Trails, with long, exposed, boggy stretches.
Route map
Terrain
Predominantly high moorland and peat bog, much of it now on stone flags or boardwalk to protect the fragile ground, interspersed with limestone dales and riverside sections. Weather-exposed for long stretches with few escape routes, especially over Kinder Scout and across the Cheviots.
Tips
Navigation and weather matter more here than on almost any other UK trail — the Cheviot and Kinder sections have caught out experienced walkers in poor visibility. Most people take 16–19 days; luggage transfer is widely available. Pack proper waterproof boots for the bog sections.
Permits & access
No permits required.