Pen-y-ghent from Horton-in-Ribblesdale
North Yorkshire
Pen-y-ghent rises to 694 metres above Horton-in-Ribblesdale, its distinctive stepped profile of gritstone cap over limestone giving it the most recognisable silhouette of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. This 10km circuit climbs from the village via Brackenbottom Scar, where the final ascent involves a short rocky scramble up the tiered cliff face to the summit cairn. The descent follows the Pennine Way north past Hull Pot, a dramatic collapsed limestone cavern 18 metres deep, before returning along Horton Scar Lane. With 470 metres of ascent, the climb is concentrated and the scramble section demands hands-on effort.
The open moorland scents on this dog friendly walk are among the finest in the Dales: peat, heather, the sweet mineral sharpness of well-drained limestone and the faint warmth of bilberry in summer. Leads are absolutely essential on the summit scramble where the stepped rock requires careful movement, and around Hull Pot where the open shaft is a serious and genuine hazard for dogs. The approach and descent cross farmland where livestock is present throughout the year. Off-lead potential is moderate on the open moorland sections between summit and Hull Pot. Water is available from streams on the lower slopes but scarce on the upper mountain. The Crown Inn and the Pen-y-ghent Café in Horton both welcome dogs. Suits fit, agile dogs comfortable with rocky scrambling.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 10.0 km (6.2 miles)
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Duration
- 3 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- Toilets at car park; Pen-y-ghent Cafe in village; Crown Hotel and Golden Lion pub
- Parking
- Yorkshire Dales National Park Car Park, Horton-in-Ribblesdale, BD24 0HE. Pay and display; approx £4.80 for the day; fills early on summer weekends
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pen-y-ghent from Horton-in-Ribblesdale dog friendly?
Pen-y-ghent scores 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it a well-regarded choice for dogs and their owners in the Yorkshire Dales. Back in the village, both the Crown Inn and the Pen-y-ghent Café welcome dogs, so you can round off the walk in good company. That said, the route does demand a confident, fit dog that's comfortable navigating rocky terrain.
Can dogs be off lead at Pen-y-ghent from Horton-in-Ribblesdale?
Off-lead potential is moderate , there are stretches of open moorland between the summit and Hull Pot where dogs can have a bit more freedom. Leads are absolutely essential on the summit scramble, where the stepped rock requires careful movement, and near Hull Pot, an 18-metre deep open limestone shaft that poses a serious hazard for dogs. The approach and descent also pass through farmland with livestock present year-round, so leads are required in those sections too.
What should I know before visiting Pen-y-ghent from Horton-in-Ribblesdale with my dog?
This is a challenging 10km circuit with 470 metres of ascent, including a hands-on rocky scramble near the summit, so it really suits fit, agile dogs rather than young puppies or older dogs with mobility issues. Water is available from streams on the lower slopes but scarce higher up, so it's worth carrying enough for the upper mountain. Parking is at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Car Park in Horton-in-Ribblesdale (BD24 0HE) , pay and display at around £4.80 for the day, but arrive early on summer weekends as it fills quickly.
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Horton-in-Ribblesdale Car Park, Horton, Settle BD24 0HF, United Kingdom
54.1488, -2.2965
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