Pennine Way Map and Information

Both ends of the Pennine Way are accessible by public transport, as are many locations along the length of the Trail.  For information on public transport links along the Trail please click here (pdf).

The closest airport to the start of the Pennine Way is Manchester Airport. You can take a train from Manchester Airport (via Manchester Piccadilly railway station) to Edale.

To return from Kirk Yetholm, you can catch a taxi or bus to Berwick-upon-Tweed and then catch a train on to Manchester Airport, Newcastle Airport or London.

For detailed rail information please see www.nationalrail.co.uk

You can find up-to-date public transport information including a journey planner at www.traveline.info

There are a number of campsites along the Trail and they can be viewed on the Interactive Map.

There is a tradition of backpackers sleeping in the hills, but if you plan to camp please note in England and Wales, there are normally no rights for national trail users to wild camp along the way – so seeking the landowner’s permission is recommended.

If you do plan to wild camp you must ensure you take all your waste away with you. Water supplies may be scarce, so stock up where you can.

Fire is a serious risk in the uplands – be very careful during dry periods to avoid starting an accidental fire on moorland.

Take the opportunity to go to the toilet where they are provided – if you need to go to the toilet in the wild go at least 50m from any water course, excavate a small hole with a walking pole etc. and fill in the hole once you are finished.

There are several companies that will arrange to move your bags for you, help you plan your trip, or arrange a full package.

View a list of these companies here.

The best weather on the Pennine Way is usually from mid May to September, however it can be walked all year round.

Check the weather forecast daily – the Pennines receive around 2.5 metres of precipitation a year and can be windswept. You need to be prepared for hot sun and heavy rain. With wind-chill the temperatures on the summits can be zero even in summer.

Most people walk south to north – you get the wind at your back and the official guide book is written in that direction! However, there is nothing to stop you walking from north to south.

Keep the weight of your rucsack to a minimum – or alternatively take advantage of one of the baggage carrying services that operate on the Trail.

As a minimum you will need to carry a map and compass and know how to use them. Be properly equipped, take waterproofs and spare warm clothing. Wear robust walking boots. Take an emergency pack including whistle, torch, first aid kit, survival bag and spare rations. Don’t wear denim jeans – they don’t dry if they get wet. Plan your route properly – be aware of escape routes in the event of an accident. Make sure somebody knows your plans.

You should carry sufficient water with you for each day’s requirements.  It is strongly advised that if you take water from streams then you should use purification equipment.

Mobile phone reception is patchy at best.  Don’t rely on your phone to help you navigate. Wi-Fi is available at some accommodation and pubs/cafés along the route.

The UK is unique in having a network of paths that the public can use; this is the Public Rights of Way network. You can see these paths on Ordnance Survey maps.

National Trails are signed with an acorn symbol and/or the Trail name which you will see on stiles, gates and signposts. This is the symbol used by all the English and Welsh National Trails.

As you are walking along the Trail you will also see waymarkers pointing to other paths. You can use the public rights of way network to leave the Trail to explore places of interest, reach your accommodation and find places to eat and drink.

You will often find a coloured arrow on signs which indicates the status of that section of path. The most common are yellow arrows which are footpaths and blue arrows which are bridleways.

A GPX file can be downloaded from the Create Your Own Trip page (the button is below the map).

The official guidebook and map for the Trail are available from the The Trails Shop along with a wide range of gifts and other merchandise.

You can find a list of Ordnance Survey maps for the Trail here.

Certificates are available from the The Trails Shop.

Useful leaflets about the Pennine Way can be downloaded from the Further Information section of this website.