The Route
what3words for start point: ///intricate.nibbled.sapping
Start Point: Hardraw, near the Green Dragon Inn, DL8 3LZ
Finish Point: Same as start point (linear walk)
Distance: Approximately 9.2 miles (15 kilometres)
Walk Description
Starting Point: Hardraw, near the Green Dragon Inn, DL8 3LZ
Key Highlights:
- Hardraw Force: England’s highest single-drop waterfall at 30 meters. The waterfall is accessible through the Green Dragon Inn, where an entrance fee is required.
- Great Shunner Fell: The third highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales, standing at 716 meters (2349 feet). The summit offers panoramic views of Swaledale, Wensleydale, and beyond.
- Pennine Way: The walk follows this famous long-distance trail, making navigation straightforward. The path features a variety of landscapes, from walled tracks to open moorland.
End Point: Hardraw, near the Green Dragon Inn
Practical Information
Distance: Approximately 9.2 miles (15 kilometers)
Difficulty: Moderate to hard – involves a significant ascent and descent, suitable for experienced walkers.
Terrain: The route includes well-defined paths, sections of the Pennine Way, and some steep and uneven terrain. The path can be muddy and slippery in places, especially after rain.
Access:
- By Car: Limited roadside parking is available at the west end of Hardraw village.
- Public Transport: Hawes, the nearest town, has bus connections, but reaching Hardraw directly by public transport may require a combination of services.
Gallery
Tips for Walkers
Footwear: Sturdy walking boots with good grip are essential due to the uneven and often muddy terrain.
Supplies: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and possibly a packed lunch. The Green Dragon Inn offers refreshments before or after the walk.
Navigation: The route is well-signposted along the Pennine Way, but carrying a detailed map (OS Explorer OL30) or a GPS device is recommended for safety and navigation.
The Hardraw Force and Great Shunner Fell walk combines the dramatic beauty of England’s highest single-drop waterfall with the challenge of climbing one of the Yorkshire Dales’ highest peaks.
Starting in the village of Hardraw, the route follows the Pennine Way, offering a mix of scenic river valleys, rugged moorland, and expansive views from the summit of Great Shunner Fell.
This 9.2-mile walk is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding day out in the Dales.