Settle to Carlisle Way

The Settle to Carlisle Railway is without doubt one of the most scenic rail journeys in the land. In an astonishing feat of Victorian engineering the line was built in just seven years and involved the construction of no fewer than 14 tunnels and more than 20 viaducts. The line has many remarkable landmarks, perhaps most notably Ribblehead Viaduct, spanning a distance of 400 metres and boasting 24 magnificent arches towering 30 metres above the ground.

For almost 150 years passengers have been enjoying the delights of the Yorkshire Dales and Eden Valley through their carriage windows. Now, thanks to the Settle to Carlisle Way, you can experience this same stunning landscape at a much slower pace.

From the limestone country of the Yorkshire Dales National Park to the pleasant farmlands of Cumbria’s Eden Valley, the Settle to Carlisle Way links together each of the stations along the much loved line. The terrain you walk over is as varied as landscapes you pass through. Fascinating limestone grassland, moorland tracks, enchanting woodland trails, riverside paths and delightful bridleways all play their part on this spectacular journey.

The early part of the walk is dominated by the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough as you weave your way to Garsdale before entering the narrow glacial valley of Mallerstang. From here, the River Eden becomes your near-constant companion as you wind your way along the valley floor to Carlisle, watched over by the magnificent North Pennine Hills.

In spring, the woods are bright with bluebells and giant bellflowers and in summer wildflower meadows fill the landscape with vibrant colour. Take a stroll at dusk and you may be treated to the sight of foxes or badgers. When walking in woodland look carefully for red squirrels and great spotted woodpeckers. Moorland and meadows are home to skylarks and golden plovers. Buzzards are common. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a peregrine falcon or a red kite. Along the River Eden, watch for kingfishers and oystercatchers.

Awe-inspiring landscapes, incredible examples of Victorian engineering, picturesque towns and villages, and a wealth of wildlife combine to make the Settle to Carlisle Way a truly memorable walking experience.

Our Holidays

We offer 3 holidays on the Settle to Carlisle Way. Firstly we have the Whole Settle to Carlisle Way, a stunning 99 mile journey combining classic Yorkshire Dales landscapes with quiet Cumbrian countryside, walked over 7 or 9 days.

We also have the option to walk the 40 miles from Settle to Kirkby Stephen over 3 or 4 days, passing beneath the iconic Yorkshire peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

Finally we have the option to walk the 59 miles from Kirkby Stephen to Carlisle over 4 or 5 days, travelling through one of Cumbria’s quieter corners, the delightful farmlands of the Eden Valley.

Please bear in mind that the distances each day are trail distances only. They do not take into account walking to your accommodation. On some days the accommodation might be on or close to the trail but on other days you may need to walk one or two miles to get to your overnight stop.