Hiking England on one of the World's 10 Best Hikes

Described by many as one of the top ten hikes in the world, this classic walk is 190 miles of sheer hiking pleasure, taking in three national parks: the Lake District, where England’s highest mountains are found; the long green valleys of the Yorkshire Dales (of James Herriot fame); and the pink and purple heather of the North Yorkshire Moors. On our trip you’ll hike the entire 190 miles, not just sections as most other companies offer.

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Activities

14 days strenuous hiking on varied terrain, with some steep ascents

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• One of the ten best long-distance hikes in the world! (It should be on your life’s “to-do” list.)
• A full 190-mile hike from the Irish Sea to the North Sea across England (MTS offers the entire West to East route, not just sections!)
• Storybook villages, rushing streams, verdant meadows, and the lovely mountains of the Lake District
• Explore the heart of three of England’s renowned national parks!

Duration: 16 days Start Location: Penrith End Location: Robin Hood's Bay

BRIEF Itinerary

• 

  Day 1 : Penrith – St. Bees

  Meet in Penrith, England, and transfer to St. Bees, a historic town dating from A.D. 650.

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  Day 2 : St. Bees to Ennerdale Bridge

  Begin the hike, heading inland along the lakes and fells of the Lake District. Pass through Grasmere, Patterdale Valley, Lake Ullswater, and Kidsty Pike, at 2,558 feet the highest point of the walk.

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  Day 3 : Ennerdale Bridge to Rosthwaite

  A day of lakeshore, forest, and mountainside, beginning with a splendid ramble along the southern shore of Ennerdale Water, Lakeland’s most easterly lake. Following are enticing place names like Black Sail Hut and Moses Trod, as we ascend into the Lake District proper. The day ends after descending from Honister Pass (1,163') to Borrowdale, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful valleys in the Lake District. (14½ miles; 1,800 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 4 : Rosthwaite to Grasmere

  The day begins with a gentle walk along Stonethwaite Beck, a mountain stream running along the dominating profile of Eagle Crag, before pulling up to the 2,000-foot pass of Greenup Edge. From here, the view is filled by the immense switchback of the Helvellyn range, Lakeland’s second highest range of mountains. A short descent is followed by an ascent to Helm Crag (1,328'), then another descent to the Vale of Grasmere. (9 miles; 2,200 feet of ascent.)

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  Days 5 - 6 : Grasmere to Patterdale / Patterdale to Shap

  Another relatively short day gives us time to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding lakes and fells of the Lake District. We’ll climb up from Grasmere over Grisdale Hause (1,936'), offering splendid views over Grisdale Tarn toward the foreboding ridge walk of Striding Ridge leading to the Hellvelyn summit. We descend to the picturesque Patterdale Valley, dominated by the enchanting reflections of Lake Ullswater, Lakeland’s second largest lake. (8½ miles; 1,800 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 7 : Shap to Ravenstonedale

  Cross a limestone plateau interspersed with ancient stone circles, burial mounds, and prehistoric settlements. Continue through the Pennine Chain and the scenic Yorkshire Dales National Park, where little stone built villages nestle by streams on the valley floors.

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  Day 8 : Ravenstonedale to Keld

  Passing by the intriguing Giants Graves and the Eden Valley, we now head for the Pennine Chain, a ridge of mountains and hills that form a backbone down the length of England. The town of Kirkby Stephen, sitting along our route, has a market charter dating back to 1351! Now it’s on to Nine Standards Rigg, at 2,171 feet our highest point of crossing the Pennines, before descending into the scenic Yorkshire Dales National Park. This national park is characterized by its sheep-populated, rolling green hills, with little stone built villages nestling by streams on the valley floors. Its limestone features and dry stone walls give it a picture book appeal.

  Our destination is Keld, in Swaledale, in the heart of the national park, and there are lovely waterfalls (known as “force”) to be seen along the river Swale as we approach the village. Note—For those wishing to walk only the 6 miles to Kirkby Stephen, a taxi or minibus will be available to transfer you to Keld (cost not included). Our accommodation is at the highest inn in England! (18 miles; 2,300 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 9 : Keld to Reeth

  On our journey across the Dales we first follow the river Swale through flowery meadows and enchanting stone villages as it descends into Swaledale proper. After lunch, we ascend to the old lead mining areas overlooking this beautiful valley, among them the intriguingly named “Surrender bridge.” Our destination is Reeth, the proud capital of Swaledale. Its inns and shops are a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike, and it even boasts a little folk museum. Many consider this the most picturesque day of the hike. (11 miles; 1,800 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 10 : Reeth to Richmond

  Today is easier as we continue through Swaledale to Richmond, passing an old priory, a couple of lovely villages, limestone geological features, and leafy streams. Richmond is a town steeped in history and dominated by the 11th-century Norman castle, with its imposing 12th-century keep. It’s an impressive sight towering over the town, which itself has 14th-century churches and a cobbled market place. The restored Georgian theater dating from 1788 may offer the chance to catch a play while we are here. (11 miles; 900 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 11 : Richmond to Danby Wiske

  Only 200 feet of ascent today—a real contrast to the fells of the Lake District and the Pennines! Following the river Swale, we pass near the substantial ruins of Easby Abbey, which was founded in 1152 for a group of white canons of the Premonstratensions order, and was occupied until Henry VIII abolished the abbeys and monasteries in the 16th century.

  Passing through the villages of Colburn and Catterick Bridge (once the home of a Roman garrison and now a modern garrison town, with a well known horse racecourse nearby), we reach the charming small village of Boltonon Swale. Here, in the village churchyard, is a memorial to Henry Jenkins, said to have been born in 1500, and died 169 years later! Perhaps a pint in the local pub will help to mull over this, before heading off to complete our day at Danby Wiske. (14 miles; 200 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 12 : Danby Wiske to Osmotherley

  Traverse the North Yorkshire Moors National Park past the Cleveland Hills, the scarp cliffs of Hasty Bank, and on through Glaisdale High Moor to Glaisdale and the river Esk.

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  Day 13 : Osmotherley to Blakey

  We are in for a real roller coaster of a day along the Cleveland Hills, where ascent is followed by descent as we make our way through the sometimes bleak, often dramatic North Yorkshire Moors National Park for the last part of our journey. After an early start, we pass through Arncliffe wood and ascend to the escarpment for dramatic views over the flat Swaledale plain, before reaching Carlton Bank where a hidden café offers a mid morning warm snack (a distance of about 7 miles). We then pass through Cringle End and Cold Moor before reaching the crags and boulders of the Wainstones and the scarp cliffs of Hasty Bank. (19 miles; 2,900 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 14 : Blakey to Grosmont

  A mostly downhill day as we descend to Great Fryup Head, where track ponies would earlier have carried coal from the pits scattered in the area, and on through the bracken of Glaisdale High Moor to the valley of Glaisdale and the river Esk. Glaisdale was a part of the iron ore boom of the 19th century, with three blast furnaces and a railroad nearby.

  Nearby Beggars Bridge is a work of art. Its graceful arches above the river Esk date from the early 1600s, when it was used in the times of the packhorse. The path on goes through East Arncliffe Wood, and follows a centuries-old trade route through Eskdale and on to our day’s destination of Grosmont, in the Esk valley. (13¾ miles; 400 feet of ascent.)

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  Day 15 : Grosmont to Robin Hood’s Bay

  End the hike at Robin Hood's Bay on the North Sea, with a welcome ritual bathing of the feet! Depart on Day 16.

• Day 16 : Travel Home

  Depart from York to London. Fly home.

DATES: Best time to go: June, August - September Departures: Jun 10 - 25, 2012 Aug 5 - 20, 2012 Sep 16, 2012 - Oct 1, 2012

PRICING: 2012 Prices $4,595 (3-16 members) $350 single supplement

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  Seacote Hotel

  St. Bees

  A cozy hotel on the West Cumbrian Coast, with panoramic views both of the Irish Sea and Lake District National Park and headlands. Bordering on the mile-long sandy beach of St. Bees Village, the Seacote Hotel offers both quiet and comfort, along with excellent local cuisine.

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  The Shepherd’s Arms Hotel

  Ennerdale Bridge

  A charming country inn a stone's throw from the waterfront, Shepherd's Arms Hotel is an Ennerdale Bridge legacy since its days as a coaching inn 300 years ago. The distinctive rooms, real log fires and full English breakfasts (home cooked from fresh local produce) make this the ideal resting stop after a long day's trek.

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  The Scafell Hotel

  Rosthwaite

  A primely located hotel nestled in a lovely hamlet beneath Great Gable and Scafell Massif mountains. With warm rooms fitted with antique furniture, views of the valley and renowned homecooked food, you'll experience the classiest of English hospitality.

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  The Traveller’s Rest

  Grasmere

  This sixteenth century coaching inn, just outside of Grasmere village, offers all the old world charm to be found in classic inglenooks and oakbeams, real ales and hearty food, and charming views of the English country.

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  The Inn on the Lake

  Glenridding

  A stately inn offering generous amenities on 15 acres of green gardens on Lake Ullswater's shore. Meticulously renovated rooms showcase stunning views of either Ullswater or the Helvellyn Mountains.

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  The Greyhound Hotel

  Shap

  This renowned Westmorland hostelry dating back to 1680 boasts a rich history and a modern reputation of warm hospitality. Famous both for its Lake District fells views and its Cumbrian breakfasts, The Greyhound Hotel imparts the true flavor and character of Northern England.

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  The Black Swan

  Ravenstonedale

  Classic Cumbrian hospitality greets you at this family-owned village inn situated just outside the conservation village of Ravenstonedale. The breakfasts are hearty, the beds particularly comfortable. The inn also serves as the village pub, and the selection of real ales— including the notable Black Sheep bitter—is plentiful.

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  Keld Lodge

  Keld

  This former shooting lodge has been restored to a cozy hotel amidst the enchanting Yorkshire Dales. Elegant and comfortable, Keld Lodge extends its welcome with traditional Yorkshire friendliness.

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  The Buck House

  Reeth

  A former coaching inn offering a a generous selection of Yorkshire Cask Ales, a renowned Sunday carvery, and friendly, communal character. The Buck House rests in the center of Reeth - its spacious rooms overlook the town's main square.

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  The King’s Head Hotel

  Richmond

  A warm, classy townhouse inn with generous rooms facing the market place. Modern amenities meet timeless Georgian architecture in the individual suites as in the spacious front rooms - including the ballroom, where Franz Liszt once gave a piano recital.

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  Old School House

  Danby Wiske

  A warm local inn converted from a 19th century village school. You'll find this gracious haven just steps from the Coast to Coast route on the edge of Danby Wiske's Green.

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  Queen Catherine Hotel

  Osmotherley

  Built of stone, this family-owned pub and B&B dates back 300 years. A warm and friendly atmosphere pervades, and delicious, home-cooked food and traditional ales will appease the palate of any hungry traveler.

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  The Lion Inn

  Blakey

  This 16th-century freehouse has been owned and operated by the Crossland family since 1980. Open fires burn all day and evening in ancient fireplaces, and original low-beamed ceilings add to the inn's authentic atmosphere. The bar is well-known for its selection of quality real ales, and the inn boasts 3 candlelit á la carte restaurants.

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  The Horseshoe Inn

  Egton

  Set on the beautiful grounds of the River Esk, this former country house dates back to the 18th century. The pub serves a varied menu using fresh local produce, and offers a comprehensive wine list and traditional, hand-pulled beers, all in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

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  Grosvenor Hotel

  Robin Hood’s Bay

  A warm welcome awaits you at this homey hotel in one of the most picturesque areas of Britain. Ideally located at the end of the famous coast-to-coast walk and just a few minutes stroll to the beach, the hotel overlooks open countryside and the beautiful North Yorkshire Moors beyond.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

• David Lunn

  David is an avid traveler who has led trips in more than 60 countries, from the high Himalaya to the African wastelands, from the deserts of Australia to the fjords of Norway. But his vast knowledge of his own country is what makes him truly special as a leader for our trips in Britain. David is an easy-going character who enjoys the outdoors and has a special interest in British history. He's also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society of London.

• Ivan Green

  Ivan describes himself as a keen mountaineer & outdoorsman since his school days. He has been a fell runner, which in the United Kingdom translates to a cross-country runner. In addition, Ivan is a rock climbing instructor, scuba diving instructor and has traveled extensively in Europe, Africa and North America. He has led tours in the Arctic Circle, South Africa and Alaska and this is the second season he is guiding for MTS. When not outdoors, he runs a small manufacturing and canoe/kayak sales shop in a Cornish harbour town.

photo credits: ©David Lunn