Description

With a stunning and unique industrial landmark followed by a legendary mountain summit, this is a justly popular walk in one of the most scenic parts of northern England.

The hike starts in a barren spot next to the Station Inn, a few kilometres north-east of Ingleton.

There is a carpark but it's not huge so get there early to guarantee a spot! Start by hiking up to the extraordinary Ribblehead Viaduct, which is clearly visible from the carpark.

The viaduct spans across the Batty Moss valley and is a part of the Settle-Carlisle railway line.

The viaduct was built in the 1870s and is made up of 24 arches, each of which is over 100 feet high.

It is considered to be one of the most iconic landmarks in the area and attracts tourists from all over the world due to its stunning beauty and engineering significance.

Despite its remote location, the viaduct has become an important symbol of Britain's industrial heritage and is an important piece of the country's railway history - take some time to ponder what an amazing amount of effort must have gone into building it over 150 years ago, and what it did for the progress of northern England's economy.

From the viaduct begin climbing gently through farmland, past Bleamoor sidings (a railway hut and a derelict railway house) and up onto the blunt south rib of Wherndale.

It is possible to detour to the nearby Force Gill Waterfall on the way to Wherndale, or just get your head down and get the climb done - the choice is yours! We've drawn the line without the detour but it's not far if you want to go and check out the impressive falls. Once on the summit ridge of Wherndale it's an airy journey to the top, and what a top it is! The mountain has an unjustified reputation for being a slightly boring hill, but the view from the top is spectacular, and the bragging rights that come with climbing the highest peak in the Dales are not to be sniffed at! When you're done patting yourself on the back, make the long and scenic descent down past Greensett Moss back to the carpark.

The views (particularly across to nearby Ingleborough) are excellent throughout the descent, and the prospect of a pint getting ever closer is thoroughly enjoyable as well!