The Pennine Bridleway

by RJi
(South Yorkshire)

Pennine Bridleway Blackshaw Head Calderdale

The Pennine Bridleway was the first purpose-built long distance bridleway for horse riders, mountain bikers and walkers. 120 miles of the route are currently open from Derbyshire up to and including the 47 mile Mary Towneley Loop in the South Pennines.

In the Yorkshire Dales there is the 10 mile Settle Loop.

The Derbyshire to Mary Towneley Loop is a 5-7 day horse ride. The Loop itself is a 3-4 day horse ride.

Once fully open, 100% will be available for horse riding and the full route (350 miles) is likely to be a 3-4 week horse ride.

The starting point for Horse riders is the old Hartington Station (Tissington Trail - with purpose built facilities).

The Landscape :
There is wonderful flora and fauna all around you in the vibrant, clean and green Chee Dale Nature Reserve, part of the Wye Valley Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Stunning views over the Kinder plateau either side of the exhilarating and peaceful Roych Clough one of Britains classic mountain bike rides.

There are panoramic views of the Pennines and valleys in Calderdale, Rochdale and Lancashire, scenic views over Widdop, Hurstwood and Watergrove reservoirs; the 6 compartmented water trough at Mankinholes and the Rochdale Canal.

Classic Yorkshire Dales limestone landscape surrounds the Settle Loop, including great views of the important Malham Tarn.

Derbyshire to Mary Towneley Loop :

If you aim to do the whole route, the Pennine Bridleway provides different starting points for cyclists and horse riders in Derbyshire.

Horse riders are recommended to start at Hartington Station, where new purpose built facilities have been constructed, which include designated horse box parking and turning areas, a covered shelter for preparing for the Trail, a corral, toilets & a refreshment area.

However, you can obviously start from any point along the Trail and select whichever route you wish to take

Best Time for a long ride :

The best time to complete the Trail is April to October, when the weather is most favourable. However the route itself can be steep and exposed, so be prepared, especially if you are planning a journey of a day or more. It is well signposted with way markers and finger posts, with the National Trail acorn on them and easy to use gates and special road crossings

Horse Riders be Prepared :

Nothing on the Pennine Bridleway should deter competent riders and fit horses. It is worth noting parts of the route are exposed and many stretches follow stone tracks so the riding is not fast.

If you are planning a multi day trip, take time to check your tack before setting off and have your horse reshod at least a week before departure.

We recommend you carry an equiboot in case your horse loses a shoe on route.

Although troughs and streams allow access to water on the route, it is worth carrying a collapsible bucket to draw water from additional sources that your horse may not be able to reach.