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, with easy to use gates and special road crossings.
Safety Guidelines
The following guidelines will help all users to stay safe on the Trail:
- Take warm, waterproof clothing, even in summer & always allow for the worst upland weather.
- Carry water & food with you, particularly where facilities shown on the map are limited, you can guarantee that when you need something, there will be no shops nearby.
- In hot weather protect yourself from the sun & carry additional water.
- Carry a map & tell someone your plans, a small first aid kit & mobile phone are good items to include.
- Be aware that network coverage for your mobile may be patchy - it is worth checking coverage with your network provider before undertaking your journey
- If necessary, improve your fitness before attempting to complete the whole route (horses & dogs need to be fit too!).
- Be aware that some surfaces can become slippery in wet weather.
- Some accommodation providers along the route offer luggage transfer facilities, which will save you having to carry your luggage along the route, so take some time to consider your accommodation.
Additional information for Cyclists - Genuine mountain bikes are required for cycling the Pennine Bridleway, but if you don’t own one, please visit our links page for details of cycle hire shops close to the route.
- The varied terrain along the route means you may be more comfortable if your bike has some suspension, good brakes & all round tyres.
- If planning a multi-day trip, ensure the accommodation you book into has secure bike storage.
- Undertake a thorough check of your bike before setting off on your trip & pack a puncture repair kit, a small tube of lubricant & a spare tube.
- A helmet is essential & padded shorts / underwear could be a blessing!
Additional information for Horse Riders -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 a horse boot in case your horse loses a shoe on route.
- Although troughs and stream allow access to water on the route, it is worth carrying a collapsible bucket to draw water from additional sources inaccessible to a horse.
Be considerate of other users:
Cyclists, horse riders and walkers all share the route. On sections of road or byway you may also meet vehicles. Please show consideration to other users and act responsibly by following the guidelines below:
- Be aware that others have a legitimate right to use the Trail
- Ride at a safe and controlled pace especially where your view is restricted
- Cyclists must give way to horse riders and walkers
- All users approaching others from behind should warn others of your approach by voice or bell, slow down and pass carefully.
- Walking, cycling or horse riding groups should not take up the whole width of the path and should leave space for others to pass.
The Countryside Code
Updated for the first time in over 20 years, the new Countryside Code was launched in July 2004. If you follow the code wherever you go along the Trail, you will get the best enjoyment possible and you will help protect the countryside now and for future generations. Although we are sure most of our users know and follow the code, here is a reminder in case you aren’t sure of the new one –
- Be safe – plan ahead and follow any signs
- Leave gates and property as you find them
- Protect plants and animals and take your litter home
- Keep dogs under close control
- Consider other people
If you would like further information on the new Countryside Code, please visit the Countryside Access website – www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk