Horton-in-Ribblesdale to Settle Walk

The payoff is steady, unshowy dales scenery: river pools and bends, wide views across Ribblesdale, limestone pastures cut by dry-stone walls, and the working Settle-Carlisle railway alongside you for much of the way.

• Leave Horton station on the public access connector down to the Ribble Way.
• Follow the River Ribble south past Cragghill Farm to Helwith Bridge.
• Cross field paths towards Stainforth, then continue down the Ribble valley to Langcliffe.
• Finish on quiet lanes, passing Watershed Mill, into Settle.

Mostly low-level valley walking, and relatively easy in gradient terms, but the surfaces vary a lot: riverside paths, grass fields, farm tracks, gates and stiles, and short sections of road. A few stretches rise onto higher limestone pastures. Field paths can be wet, muddy or uneven, so boots and a willingness to squelch are worth having. Navigation is straightforward if you stay with the Ribble Way corridor, though field crossings need a little attention.

This one needs planning before you set off, because the walk ends miles from where it starts. The usual approach is to travel to Horton by train and walk back to Settle, or to leave a car at Settle and take the train up the line. Sort your return or onward travel first, then start walking. Toilets and refreshments are available in Horton and Settle, and nothing in between, so carry water and food for the middle section.

Dogs are welcome on these public rights of way while kept under control. Expect sheep and cattle in the fields and lanes, so keep dogs on a lead around livestock and give stock a wide berth. Follow seasonal guidance for ground-nesting birds on the more open pasture sections.

If your appetite is for a summit day rather than a valley crossing, the Pen-y-ghent circuit from Horton is a significantly steeper and higher alternative. It is a separate walk with separate demands, so choose one or the other rather than trying to combine them.