One of the first decisions you'll face when planning your Yorkshire Three Peaks walk is which direction to go. The traditional clockwise route from Horton-in-Ribblesdale is the most well-known, but there's a growing argument for going anti-clockwise.
The Clockwise Route (Traditional)
Starting from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, the clockwise route takes you to Pen-y-ghent first, then across to Ribblehead and up Whernside, before finishing with Ingleborough.
Advantages:
- The most well-waymarked direction
- Pen-y-ghent's scramble is tackled early with fresh legs
- The traditional way, so most guidebooks describe this direction
Disadvantages:
- You tackle the highest peak (Whernside) when you're already tired
- The steep southern face of Pen-y-ghent is descended rather than ascended (harder on the knees)
The Anti-Clockwise Route
Starting from Ribblehead (or Horton heading to Ingleborough first), the anti-clockwise route reverses the order.
Advantages:
- Tackle Whernside (the highest) with fresh legs
- The steep sections of Pen-y-ghent are ascended, not descended, which is safer and easier on the knees
- Growing consensus among professional guides that this is the better direction
Disadvantages:
- Less commonly described in guidebooks
- Waymarking is slightly less intuitive in places
Our Take
Both directions are entirely valid. If you're a first-timer and want to follow the well-trodden path, go clockwise. If you're experienced or have knee concerns, consider going anti-clockwise.
Either way, you'll cover the same 24 miles and climb the same three peaks. The sense of achievement at the end is identical.
Read our complete walking guide for more planning advice, or find accommodation near your preferred starting point.