Choosing Your Starting Point
The closure of the iconic Pen-y-ghent Cafe's clocking-in service in May 2022 has shifted the logistical focus toward digital tracking and alternative starting points.
Horton-in-Ribblesdale
The traditional start and finish point. Offers parking, pubs, accommodation, and a railway station on the Settle-Carlisle line. Most walkers begin here for the clockwise route.
Ribblehead
An excellent starting point for the anti-clockwise route. Parking available near the Ribblehead Viaduct. Allows you to tackle Whernside (the highest peak) first with fresh legs.
Chapel-le-Dale
A quieter alternative with parking at the Hill Inn. Good for those wanting to start with Whernside via a less-trodden route.
Timing and Pace
The 12-hour target means maintaining a pace of roughly 2 miles per hour, including rest stops. Most fit walkers complete the challenge in 9-12 hours.
Suggested Timing (Clockwise from Horton)
| Checkpoint | Target Time |
|---|---|
| Start from Horton | 0:00 |
| Pen-y-ghent summit | 1:30 - 2:00 |
| Ribblehead | 4:00 - 5:00 |
| Whernside summit | 6:00 - 7:00 |
| Hill Inn (Chapel-le-Dale) | 7:30 - 8:30 |
| Ingleborough summit | 9:00 - 10:00 |
| Return to Horton | 10:00 - 12:00 |
What to Bring
Essential Kit
- Waterproof jacket and trousers (weather changes rapidly at altitude)
- Walking boots with good ankle support
- Map and compass (do not rely solely on phone GPS)
- Sufficient food and water (at least 2-3 litres)
- Head torch (essential for early starts or if you're running behind schedule)
- First aid kit
- Warm layers (summit temperatures can be 10°C lower than the valley)
Recommended Extras
- Walking poles (particularly helpful on steep descents)
- Blister kit
- Spare socks
- Sunscreen and hat (even on overcast days)
- Mobile phone (fully charged, but don't rely on signal)
Points of Interest
Hull Pot
Located near the descent from Pen-y-ghent, Hull Pot is the largest natural hole in England. Well worth a brief detour for those not strictly adhering to the 12-hour target.
Ribblehead Viaduct
The iconic 24-arch viaduct rising 32m above the moor is a key landmark on the route between Pen-y-ghent and Whernside.
Getting There
The Settle-Carlisle railway line provides excellent access to the route. Horton-in-Ribblesdale station is a five-minute walk from most accommodation and the traditional start point. Ribblehead station is right at the viaduct.
For more transport information, see our Getting Here guide.
Where to Stay
Choosing accommodation close to your starting point makes an early morning start much easier. Browse our area guides:
- Horton-in-Ribblesdale accommodation - right at the traditional start
- Chapel-le-Dale accommodation - for Whernside access
- Ingleton accommodation - near caves and waterfalls
- Settle accommodation - the main service town