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Main Boards => Long Distance Walks => Topic started by: Hillhiker1 on 21:48:22, 05/01/19

Title: Pennine way
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 21:48:22, 05/01/19

Can anyone recommend a good guide book for the PW? I've done a fair few bits of it over the years, more by default than planning. But a mate and I are thinking of doing more of it as days out and weekends away, with a view to doing the whole thing in our retirement.
SO. Any recommendations for a guide?
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: alan de enfield on 22:04:47, 05/01/19
Can anyone recommend a good guide book for the PW? I've done a fair few bits of it over the years, more by default than planning. But a mate and I are thinking of doing more of it as days out and weekends away, with a view to doing the whole thing in our retirement.
SO. Any recommendations for a guide?



This is the one I used (obviously supported by OS maps)



https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop/books/other-walking-guidebooks/guidebook-pennine-way-companion.html?awc=2495_1546725837_2aec1c54a051fd4f3fdaaca5e019b087 (https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop/books/other-walking-guidebooks/guidebook-pennine-way-companion.html?awc=2495_1546725837_2aec1c54a051fd4f3fdaaca5e019b087)




https://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/rare-books/a-wainwright/pennine-way-companion-a-pictorial-guide/1541180593HJG?gclid=CjwKCAiAyMHhBRBIEiwAkGN6fLQO2TANOs-w0c36FMaT75HyQUk50f6WLiE1edZODU4s0T_LxT8aDRoC_IMQAvD_BwE
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: rural roamer on 22:25:26, 05/01/19
We used the Trailblazers guide and can recommend it.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: jimbob on 00:12:26, 06/01/19
We used the Trailblazers guide and can recommend it.
+1 for Trailblazers.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: sussamb on 08:32:14, 06/01/19
I used the Cicerone guide when I first did it, and read lots of blogs
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: harland on 08:39:23, 06/01/19
For those with less experience than Hillhiker guides are OK as long as you are on the route but you will need a map (and compass) if you happen to be exploring elsewhere by mistake.

However to answer the question Trailblazer is very good together with OS Maps (or scanned copies of the part that you need).  My local library has all the OS Maps that can be borrowed which is very helpful taking into account my previous sentence!
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 10:13:53, 06/01/19
I never bought a guide, just read and took notes from the internet. Its easy now, If I'm hiking anywhere I just use my phone (just need a signal) when I want to check out information near or ahead of me, including weather.

When I first did the PW I bought the Harvey Maps, which were fine, although for me, being colour blind (red/green) I could not read them at all in artificial light, e.g. in a pub, just a blur!

I have since bought the A to Z OS booklet maps which I think are great, A5 sized, very much an improvement on the Harvey maps and for me perfect, I can read them in all lights.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Stube on 11:19:00, 06/01/19
Again +1 for the Trailblazer guides - nothing else comes close for their breadth of coverage.

However, if you regularly go off-route - as I do - then they should be coupled with the A-Z Adventure series maps. Two booklets cover the complete route & and have indices covering placenames and facilities.

That said, the PW is well waymarked - it's difficult to get lost unless it's foggy!

The revised Wainwright's guide is good for giving an impression of the route and the sights along the way with its numerous drawings. Little information on accommodation though.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: bricam2096 on 11:58:46, 06/01/19
I found the Trailblazer guide to be very useful, you can usually pick them up pretty cheap on Ebay, especially the older editions as the route hasn't changed a lot over the years and the PW is quite well waymarked although some of the markers could do with being updated.

Don't rely on guidebooks for accommodation as places come and go, sometimes it's better to work out an itinerary and then search online for accommodation there or nearby (some B&Bs will offer transport). There were quite a few YHAs on/near the PW which I used on my PW to keep the cost down.

I also read many blogs and websites and picked up some tips that way e.g. shops, pubs and accommodation.

Best advice though is this forum as many people have done it so will be able to help or offer advice  O0
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: harland on 12:16:15, 06/01/19
Happy to provide details of my accommodation but that was in 2014 so there may be other members that have more up-to-date information.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 16:03:08, 06/01/19

Thanks for all the replies guys, I think I'll have a look at the trailblazer guide to start then. O0
At this stage, I'm not after a navigation aid, I'll be using a GPS / Maps for that,  I'm just looking after a bit of armchair reading and research about the sights and general ground conditions really.
I got some Waterstones vouchers at Christmas and was going to buy a guide, but there's literally dozens to choose from, so I though I'd call in here first...


Thanks again :)
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: rural roamer on 22:28:57, 07/01/19
Happy to provide details of my accommodation but that was in 2014 so there may be other members that have more up-to-date information.


We walked it in 2016. We found there were several B&Bs recently closed leaving some areas with little or no accommodation. As owners retire there is often no-one coming forward to take it on. Having said that when we did Offas Dyke in 2017 we did find 2 new places so may not always be bad news.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Yorkshiremarv on 10:34:56, 09/01/19
I used the damian hall guide book, find it very useful. O.s maps for all the route, great descriptive on what to look out for along the way and every so often telling what direction to head in, useful distance checker to know what distances are between certain places. all the useful info on distance to travel in a day, elevation, highest point, public transport for the day, refreshments, public toilets, accommodation. The way is set out as in 16 day sections, which is helpful in planning your own journey, its the only thing i need along with a compass. Helped immensely on knock fell as it was 10m visibility in low cloud (along with wet and misted glasses),and after walking in a few directions and nothing feeling right i got the book out and read the description a few times about where i was and along with a compass bearing i eventually got on the right track. Also its the right size to fit into those zip up freezer bags so itll be safe and dry, even on the opened page for that section. O0
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: The Squirrel on 14:02:06, 24/03/19
There is accommodation in Cowling, lodges, pods bunk house etc camping 150m off the pennine way, squirrel wood campsite, easy to find with everything you need including onsite bar, hot showers and a communal kitchen. There are NO B & B's left in the area this is the best option.




This is the one I used (obviously supported by OS maps)


Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: The Squirrel on 14:05:15, 24/03/19
most of the guide books are out of date, use internet search as no b&b's in Cowling anymore just the squirrel wood campsite and lodges also has a bunk house and bar
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: The Squirrel on 14:43:27, 24/03/19
Trailblazer is about 3 years out of date and even the new version lists places that don't exist any longer and those that do exist it doesn't list. Many people think there is a campsite in Lothersdale and that closed approx. 4 years ago. from Hebden Bridge  the best is to go to the campsite in Cowling, squirrel wood campsite has bunk house, Lodges, pods as well as camping so you can book what ever you want. Then from there to Malham as its about half way between the two so a perfect stop. All B&B's in Cowling are now gone the last one closed in 2018 and this campsite is the last one before Gargrave approx. 10 miles ahead if going south to north or Ponden if going north to south roughly the same distance.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: sussamb on 16:10:20, 24/03/19
Not quite true, I used a camp site in Lothersdale in 2017
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: mow1701 on 18:24:36, 27/04/19
My vote if for OS guidebook as got OS maps in conjunction with National Trails website for up to date information
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Slogger on 16:30:46, 29/04/19
Camping is still available at the Bungalow, on the lawn, with shower in the static caravan. Past the har & Hounds but before the bridge turn left and walk up to the first bungalow.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: sussamb on 18:18:15, 29/04/19
Yep, Dale End I think, was the one I used in 2017  O0
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Florence Lamb on 18:24:32, 29/04/19
Yes, definitely Dale End.  And the nice lady owner provides a cup of tea on arrival (well she always has when I have landed there.....1)
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Slowcoach on 20:19:31, 10/06/19
Rather than start another topic I thought i would tag on here. 2 of us are thinking of walking the Pennine way next year in one go. From what I have read allowing 3 weeks would be about right...is that correct?


We are considering backpacking and camping with perhaps a B & B every 4 days or so. We have both backpacked before and are strong walkers.
Has anyone done similar and what should we be aware of. Likely time May.


Thanks for any tips or warnings
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 20:40:50, 10/06/19
The last time I did it took me 19 days. I found it easy to find campsites, shops, pubs and wild camping places as well. The weather can be changeable, I've experienced both good and bad. I have also hiked it both ways, my personal preference is North to South, for two reasons, my son lives in Edinburgh and when finishing at Edale I can jump straight on a train to go south to where I live in Portsmouth. I bought the A to Z books to hike it, really good for the route, A5 sized so really easy to carry.

I remember certain sections which required a bit more from me, Kirk Yetholme to Byrness, Alston to Dufton and Cowden to Edale for instance, the wind and rain really knocked me about on those sections. The Hadrians Wall section I thought was a bit strenuous as well, lots of ups and downs but great if lucky with the weather.

I realised this year that if I ever want to do it and MORE (which I must admit for me now is most unlikely) and make it into a REAL he-man's effort and adding about 9 days to the route, I would start to hike at Edinburgh. Follow the route to Kirk Yetholme, via Peebles and Melrose by using the route laid out in www.walkhighlands.co.uk.

The other option which I've done. almost as long, is the Pennine Journey.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: sussamb on 20:54:03, 10/06/19
We are considering backpacking and camping with perhaps a B & B every 4 days or so. We have both backpacked before and are strong walkers.
Has anyone done similar and what should we be aware of. Likely time May.


Depends what you mean by 'strong walkers'.  I've done in twice, once when I was 60 and once at 65.  I consider myself a strong walker and I took 15 days.  Three weeks in my view would leave you sitting around for a long time, but then you might want that  :)
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Slowcoach on 21:02:23, 10/06/19
“Strong walker”  ... I walk regularly twice a week... 11 or 12 miles on the hills and ridges of Dorset. Recently walked the Liberty Trail 33 miles in a day. I did 18 consecutive days along the GR10 a couple if years ago etc etc so I will definitely take on board your point about hanging about. So I will look at scheduling it for around 15 days.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: sussamb on 06:31:28, 11/06/19
If you want I'll PM you my itinerary, or read my blog http://penninewayat60.blogspot.com/ (http://penninewayat60.blogspot.com/?m=1)
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Slowcoach on 08:32:30, 11/06/19
Sussamb, Yes please to a copy of your itinerary. I will read your blog today as it’s raining hard and I am not tempted to venture further than the living room.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Florence Lamb on 09:26:21, 11/06/19
I’ve completed PW several times. South to North and North to South. Camping isn’t really an issue just the weather is unpredictable. Personally not a lover of Tan Hill to Middleton leg and suggest you take road from Tan Hill just to avoid Sleightholme moor. Slightly longer but avoids a few miles of boring slog over the bog!  You can rejoin about 3 miles on.  16 days is ample unless you want a leisurely  trek. I love PW but not everyone’s cup of tea. Visit Aladdin’s Cave at May Stocks just north of Hebden Bridge. A great stock up place for walkers and free camping to Pennine wayfarers along with a great cup of tea! Enjoy. O0
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 09:46:24, 11/06/19
Totally agree with you, the Tan Hill to Middleton section is the pits! The last time I chose to avoid it and walked the alternative route to Bowes, much better.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Slowcoach on 09:54:59, 11/06/19
The more I read from you all  the more settled I am becoming in my mind that this walk is something I want to do.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: ninthace on 10:06:55, 11/06/19
Totally agree with you, the Tan Hill to Middleton section is the pits! The last time I chose to avoid it and walked the alternative route to Bowes, much better.
The secret of crossing Sleightholme Moor is the same as the secret of comedy......timing!  After a dry spell it is absolutely fine but you do have to able to read the ground conditions rather than just following the path.  I used to park at Bowes, walk to Tan Hill for a pint and then return via the alternative route on the shooters’/cycle track.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: rural roamer on 18:23:54, 11/06/19
I don’t think of myself as a strong walker, more a maybe slightly above average walker! We walked the Pennine Way over 20 days but that included a short 6 mile day to Malham and a rest day in Alston. So I would think you could probably easily do it in 15/16 days. The miles do seem to get easier the further you go as you get used to it.  I was surprised that I managed Dufton to Alston better than I thought.


Sleightholme Moor - I tried to persuade hubby that the road would be a better bet but he wasn’t having it! We had to stick to the official route. Actually it wasn’t too bad, as it hadn’t rained too much before then, it was further north when the bogs were worse - Padon Hill, and yes we had to do that too, not take the forest road!
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 18:47:09, 11/06/19
Padon Hill, I remember that place the first time I did the route. All I got was wet feet! When I walked to Edinburgh recently on the Pennine Way from Hadrians Wall I walked the road route, so much better!
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: sussamb on 19:43:01, 11/06/19
Road route around Paddon is definitely easier  O0
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: JerryW on 20:54:28, 17/07/19
Slightly bemused to read the negative comments about Sleightholme, I loved that bit! Loved Tan Hill Inn, too.. The only bit of the whole PW that I did not like was ploughing through the endless fir plantations north of Hadrian's Wall..
I am walking the PW for the third time this September .. N to S this time.

I am keen to get suggestions for accommodation. Where have you stayed that you liked? A lot of the places I've stayed previously seem to have shut. I will be staying at the Foresters in Byrness, and have accommodation in Edale and Kirk Yetholm booked .. I have a tent, and plan to more or less alternate between that and b&b or similar.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 09:07:26, 18/07/19
For camping, I tried the campsite just before Bellingem (when hiking S to N) for the first time earlier this year and I thought it was far better than the one in the centre of town.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: JerryW on 20:38:21, 15/08/19
For camping, I tried the campsite just before Bellingem (when hiking S to N) for the first time earlier this year and I thought it was far better than the one in the centre of town.
Thank you .. trying to pin it down. Is it this one?
https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/?_$ja=tsid:61182|cgn:directorylink|kw:Bellingham
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 21:34:34, 15/08/19
Yes, that's the one. The lady behind the desk directed me to a wonderful little spot, I slept soundly the whole night! It was a good spot for me, I wandered into town had a meal and a couple of pints and then the stroll back meant I didn't go to bed feeling too full up.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: JerryW on 21:56:42, 15/08/19
Brill, thanks GWM .. any more suggestions, anyone?
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 09:49:04, 16/08/19
I've never stayed there but on the way south, just after Byrness, there is a nicely manicured lawned caravan campsite, you can get in easily from the Pennine Way itself via their back gate, the front gate fronts onto the A68 main road. When I passed it last time it looked good from the PW path and they were charging £8 for hikers that walk in with a rucksack.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Slogger on 17:05:53, 16/08/19
From what I understand the Padon Hill route has been much improved with a gravel type path. It is a shame that the PW Association had to close as it was a source of much information and latest news.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: Dodgylegs on 17:27:20, 18/09/19
Can anyone recommend a good guide book for the PW? I've done a fair few bits of it over the years, more by default than planning. But a mate and I are thinking of doing more of it as days out and weekends away, with a view to doing the whole thing in our retirement.
SO. Any recommendations for a guide?


As a 'day walker' doing the PW when able/weather decent, obviously taking sometime!


Live Northern England, basically walked from Hawes to Chew Green near Byrness, if I can provide any assistance from my walks for your 'days out' I'd be happy to assist.




One of the major benefits is being able to undertake walks when weather has been dry i.e. Sleighthome to Tan Hill done early May 2017, very dry, sky full of Oyster Catchers, Curlew and Lapwings putting on an amazing display. Absolutely loved it!
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: gunwharfman on 18:19:46, 18/09/19
Sorry, can't help with a guide but the AZ map company sell a good map of the route, two of them A5 sized.
Title: Re: Pennine way
Post by: harland on 18:58:07, 18/09/19
The Pennine Way was my first LDP, I bought the Trailblazer Guide which got me from end to end without a problem although to be fair I used the OS maps as well!