Dales Way

Rivers, valleys, limestone landscapes, and traditional Yorkshire villages define the Dales Way, a long-distance route linking the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Landscape with the Lake District National Landscape. Following river corridors and historic pathways, the trail passes through some of northern England's most celebrated countryside while connecting two of its most distinctive landscapes.

As a self-guided journey, the route passes through places including Ilkley, Grassington, Kettlewell, Buckden, Dent, Sedbergh, and Bowness-on-Windermere while following the valleys of the Rivers Wharfe and Lune. Limestone dales, riverside paths, open countryside, historic villages, and upland scenery create a journey shaped by both landscape and rural heritage.

With well-established trails, varied scenery, and a largely gentle gradient, the Dales Way offers one of England's most accessible long-distance routes. The trail combines riverside walking, traditional countryside, and spectacular landscapes, making it well suited to self-guided travel and slower exploration.

Overview

Distance 78 miles / 125 km

Duration 5–7 days

Difficulty Moderate

Start Ilkley, West Yorkshire

Finish Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria

Terrain Riverside paths, field tracks, limestone valley trails, woodland paths, upland crossings, and countryside footpaths.