Ribble Way

Limestone valleys, riverbanks, and a journey from source to coast.

The Ribble Way is a long-distance route following the River Ribble from Ribblehead in the Yorkshire Dales National Park to Preston in Lancashire, with an optional extension continuing to Lytham St Annes on the Irish Sea. Linking upland dales, river valleys, farmland, woodland, and floodplain landscapes, the trail follows the course of one of northern England's most significant rivers from its source toward the coast.

As a self-guided journey, the route connects places such as Ribblehead, Settle, Clitheroe, Ribchester, and Preston while passing through limestone landscapes, riverside meadows, historic crossings, and rural countryside. The river remains a constant companion throughout, creating a route defined by gradual change as the landscape transitions from upland Yorkshire to the low-lying plains of Lancashire.

With generally moderate terrain, a variety of riverside and countryside paths, and access to settlements along the route, the Ribble Way offers an accessible long-distance walking journey through northern England. The trail combines natural landscapes, local history, and a strong sense of progression, following the Ribble from its upland origins to tidal waters and the coast.

Overview

Distance 72 miles / 116 km

Duration 5–7 days

Difficulty Moderate

Start Ribblehead, North Yorkshire

Finish Preston, Lancashire (optional extension to Lytham St Annes)

Terrain Riverside paths, limestone dale tracks, farmland paths, woodland trails, minor roads, towns, and floodplain sections