Pennine Bridleway

This is the core linear National Trail, running 174 miles / 280 km point to point from Middleton Top visitor centre near Wirksworth in Derbyshire to Ravenstonedale in Cumbria. That figure is one way, not a loop, so transport at both ends has to be arranged. A verified mapped line of the route measures about 168.55 miles, including a public road connector through Settle between the official route parts, so treat 174 miles as the planning convention rather than a precise measurement. It is built for walkers, horse riders and cyclists, and it can be ridden or walked in either direction, though south to north gives the gentler start.

Expect minor roads, gravel tracks, grassed stone tracks, cobbles and worn flags, and long sections that are rough and stony. It is largely off-road but not continuously so. The stony surfaces are slow going for horses, and cyclists should expect a mix rather than smooth trail throughout. This is a serious multi-day undertaking, not a day out, and daily distances should be set conservatively rather than by map miles alone.

The southern half sits closer to towns and settlements. Facilities and services are fewer in the remote Dales and Mallerstang sections, so overnight stops, resupply and transport logistics need planning in advance. Navigation matters too, even though the route is waymarked with National Trail acorn or trail name signs in both directions.

The Settle Loop and the Mary Towneley Loop are separate named variants and are not part of this route. If you want a shorter circular ride or walk that returns to its start, those loops are the better fit. Choose this linear trail only if you want the full south to north traverse with the commitment that implies.

Start access is at Middleton Top visitor centre, and the finish is at Ravenstonedale. Ordinary dogs are legally allowed on the public rights of way and bridleway route that make up the trail. Keep dogs under close control, respect livestock, and follow the normal access land restrictions and any local signs along the way.

• Far south: reclaimed railway trails and easier surfaces from Middleton Top on the High Peak Trail, useful for finding your rhythm.
• South Pennines: more changeable tracks and gradients, with particularly steep valleys, passing near Hebden Bridge.
• Craven and the Dales: Long Preston and Settle, then the more open and isolated ground of Cam and Dent fells.
• Final stretch: the Mallerstang valley and the climb over Wild Boar Fell before the descent to Ravenstonedale.