Dales Way South
Ilkley → Ribblehead
- Picturesque villages and stone bridges
- Rolling Wharfedale river scenery
- Finish at the famous Ribblehead viaduct
Why people love the Dales Way South
This historic route traverses the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park following gentle riverside paths and valley bottoms, with moderate total elevation gain of approximately 856m. This makes it a perfect trail for a weekend adventure.
Following ancient drovers' routes and packhorse trails, it offers an intimate glimpse into northern England's pastoral heritage. The path requires no technical climbing and is ideal for hikers of moderate fitness levels.
Build Your Dales Way South Adventure
Choose your pace, package and group size — we'll do the rest.
Your Adventure
What's Included:
- Hostels & bunkhouses booked
- Breakfast included
- On-trail support
Your Adventure
What's Included:
- Hostels & bunkhouses booked
- Breakfast included
- On-trail support
The Journey in Pictures
Sample Itinerary
Here's what's on the trail. We'll split the stages to each day just right for your pace.
Stage 1: Ilkley to Appletreewick
The route follows field paths to Bolton Abbey. Admire the 12th-century Priory ruins before crossing the Wharfe via the famous stepping stones (or adjacent footbridge). Pass the Cavendish Pavilion offering refreshments and continue through Strid Wood. The route continues to Barden Bridge, then through meadows past Howgill to Appletreewick village (small detour into the village) with its renowned Craven Arms pub featuring traditional drinks and meals.
Stage 2: Appletreewick to Buckden
Leaving Grassington, the trail climbs past the golf course onto the Dales Way Link. Expansive views of Wharfedale open across rolling fields before the path skirts Conistone’s limestone outcrops and reaches Scott Gate Pasture, the high point, before descending into Kettlewell, a picturesque village of cafés and pubs.
From Kettlewell, follow the Wharfe’s western bank through wildflower meadows and past Starbotton Birks to Starbotton village, then continue to Buckden, where Buckden Pike dominates the skyline and the Buck Inn and village shop await.
Stage 3: Buckden to Ribblehead
Cross Yockenthwaite Bridge and follow the south bank of the narrowing Wharfe. The path climbs gently through meadows and drystone walls to Oughtershaw, once home to author Ella Pontefract. The valley closes in as the route rises toward the watershed. Pass abandoned farmsteads at Swarthgill and cross boggy stretches on flagstones before reaching Cam Houses, Yorkshire’s highest farm.
A final climb leads to the trail’s highest point (520m), offering sweeping views of Ingleborough and Whernside. From here, descend to Blea Moor Road and continue toward Ribblehead, with its iconic viaduct. Take care as the road lacks pavements; refreshments are available from mobile food vans or the Station Inn.
Essential Travel Information
- Spring offers wildflowers, autumn provides clear views
- Winter brings short days and challenging weather
- Accommodation opens year-round in larger towns
- Book ahead during summer holidays (July-August)
- Hotels: £80-150 per night
- Hostels: £20-30 per night
- Camping: Limited sites, £10-15 per night
- Book 3-6 months ahead for peak season
- Trains to Ilkley via Leeds
- Ribblehead is on the Settle-Carlisle railway line
- Regular buses between major towns
- Taxi services available
- Food: £25-40 per day
- Transport: £50-100 total
- No permits required
- Optional baggage transfer: £17 per bag per stage
- Quieter March-May and October
- Mixed international and domestic hikers
- Family-friendly trail
- Solitude found on mid-week spring/autumn days