Pennine Way National Trail
Length: 429 km/268 miles
Average time to complete: 16 days
Originally the inspiration of walker and writer Tom Stephenson in an article published in 1935 in the Daily Herald titled 'Wanted: A Long Green Trail', the Pennine Way was designated by the Countryside Agency in 1965 as Britain's first National Trail and is now one of the most famous and popular walks in the country. The 268 mile (429km) trail chases the Pennine Hills along the backbone of England from Derbyshire, through three National Parks, over Hadrian's Wall and on to the Scottish Borders using old miners' tracks, packhorse routes and drove roads.
A full-time officer co-ordinates the management of the trail in partnership with the National Parks and local authorities through which it passes. The trail is well-signed and looked after to high standards to ensure one of the best walking experiences in Britain.
Today, many walkers in search of an adventure take up the challenge of completing the trail in one continuous walk over a couple of weeks. Others choose to enjoy it over a series of weekends or on a number of day trips.
There are many hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, bunk barns and campsites close by with good public transport links to nearby towns and cities. Accommodation can be booked in advance and there are luggage carrying services available for those who appreciate them.
Along the Trail you can see some of the finest landscape features in upland Britain.
Malham Cove - an arc of sheer 80 metres limestone cliffs topped by a fascinating limestone pavement.
High Force - a thunderous waterfall that crashes over a shelf of Dolerite to a deep dark pool 21 metres below.
High Cup Nick - a deep-sided gorge in the Whinstone Cliffs hemmed in by curving screes and imposing columns of Dolerite rock.