Pennine Way

Horton in Ribblesdale → Hawes

Distance: 14.09 miles
Ascent: 502 metres
Duration: 5 hours 27 minutes

Cracking walk, Gromit
« Not walked | Not walked »

Getting out early this morning gave us the opportunity to watch the rising sun strike the terraced side of Ingleborough, which was still swathed in mist after the overnight rain. The heavy showers also meant that the stony path was running with water, and the wet mud was especially boggy. The initial ascent out of Horton had us swiping at clouds of midgies.

Once on the gentle ascent up to Cam Fell, the views began to open out and we were treated to the thundering sound of Sell Gill Beck pouring its brown, peaty waters into one of the celebrated potholes in this area of limestone country. It was tempting to look down into the cavern, with its fringe of ferns, but the obvious danger held us back.

This isn't a stand-out walk in terms of major landmarks, but it more than makes up for it with panoramic views across the surrounding fells. Standing on the ledge of Dodd Fell felt like being on the edge of the sky.

Heading down the valley into Hawes, we crossed several muddy, boggy fields, before making it into the small town. It's the home of the famous Wensleydale cheese, so a trip to the "cheese experience" visitor centre is essential (and not just for the plentiful free samples). Wallace would approve.