The original National Trail, the Pennine Way remains one of the most celebrated walks in the UK. This challenging trek traverses the rugged wilds of Northern England and even ventures into Scotland for a bit as it cuts across dramatic hills and stunning landscapes. Even though the trail takes hikers deep into the backcountry, there are plenty of creature comforts to be had at the day’s end. In fact, visiting quaint villages and experiencing unique accommodations is one of the best parts of walking the Pennine Way. With so many options along the 268-mile route, it can be overwhelming to plan for each stop of your journey. But fear not, we’re here to help!
In this guide, you’ll find lodging recommendations and everything else you need to know about accommodation on the Pennine Way.
- Should I reserve my Pennine Way accommodation in advance?
- Pennine Way Accommodation Cost
- Pennine Way Accommodation Directory
Should I reserve my Pennine Way accommodation in advance?
If you plan on walking the Pennine Way during the high season (May through September), it is a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. In smaller villages, there may be only one or two lodging options, and they fill up well ahead of the summer months. If nothing else, try to make reservations for these stops as early as possible, ideally 3-6 months before your walk. If you haven’t reserved in advance, it’s a good idea to call ahead in the morning and check for cancellations before you arrive.
Pennine Way Accommodation Cost
With accommodation options ranging from campgrounds and bothies to 4-star guesthouses, you can customize your Pennine Way walk to fit your budget and travel style. Prices and accommodation options vary greatly from place to place, but generally speaking, here’s what you can expect to pay for accommodation along the Pennine Way:
- B&B/Guesthouse/Hotel: £75+ (per person/per night)
- Bunkhouse/Hostel: £40 (per person/per night)
- Camping: £10 (per person/per night)
In the accommodation directory, we’ve provided our recommendations for high-end, mid-range, and budget options at all of the typical Pennine Way stops. We’ve defined those categories as follows:
- High-End: £70+ (per person/per night)
- Mid-Range: £40-70 (per person/per night)
- Budget:<£40 (per person/per night)
Accommodation Directory
- Edale
- Crowden
- Standedge/Diggle
- Hebden Bridge
- Ickornshaw & Cowling
- Gargrave
- Malham
- Horton in Ribblesdale
- Hawes
- Keld
- Tan Hill Inn
- Middleton in Teesdale
- Dufton
- Garrigill
- Alston
- Greenhead
- Once Brewed
- Bellingham
- Byrness
- Kirk Yetholm
Edale
High-End: Stonecroft Guesthouse
Rest up before beginning your walk at this luxurious B&B. The establishment takes pride in its award-winning food, which specializes in vegetarian and gluten-free fare. Rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with plenty of thoughtful touches to make your stay special.
Mid-Range: The Rambler Inn
Just five minutes from the trail, the Rambler Inn is a favorite amongst walkers. The friendly atmosphere is enhanced by its charming setting in an old country house. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, and the generous breakfast will leave you fueled for the day ahead.
Budget: Ollerbrook Barn
This welcoming B&B is a great place to stay before starting your Pennine Way walk. It is located just minutes from the start of trail, and the generous hosts will pick you up from the train station at no additional cost. All rooms enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and a hearty full English is served in the mornings.
Crowden
Mid-Range: The Old House B&B
Guests consistently rave about the hospitality at The Old House. Located just steps from the Pennine Way, this comfortable B&B is a welcome site for weary walkers. With tasty food and thoughtful amenities, you can’t go wrong staying at The Old House.
Budget: Crowden Camping & Caravanning Club Site
The Crowden Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a great budget option that allows you to feel close to nature, while still enjoying some modern conveniences. If you’re not carrying your own tent, you can stay in one of the cozy camping pods or Ready Camp tents. The clean facilities offer hot showers, flush toilets, and a small shop.
Standedge/Diggle
High-End: The Saddleworth Hotel
If you are in need of some pampering after a few long days on the trail, the Saddleworth will certainly do the trick. From delicious food, to unique and spacious guestrooms, this 4-star hotel delivers luxury in all forms. Located about 30 minutes’ walk from the trail, this is one of the closer accommodation options in the area.
Mid-Range: The Diggle Hotel
Located just under half an hour’s walk from the trail, the welcoming hosts and excellent pub make this a favorite destination among walkers. All of the comfortable rooms offer en suite bathrooms and wifi. Make sure to savor their delicious and hearty breakfast before heading out in the morning.
Budget: Sunfield Accommodation
This lovely B&B is enjoys spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, while also being located less than 1.5 miles from the Pennine Way trail. All of the en suite rooms are clean, cozy, and thoughtfully decorated. The friendly hosts go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome.
Hebden Bridge
High-End: The White Lion Hotel
The White Lion features all of the charm of a traditional pub hotel, while also providing a bit of refined luxury. The beautiful guest rooms have been fitted with modern and thoughtful touches, like high-quality toiletries and flat screen TVs. The restaurant offers plenty of choices and delicious meals.
Mid-Range: Hebden Townhouse
This smart B&B provides a great value and convenient location in Hebden Bridge. The rooms are spotlessly clean, fresh, and comfortable and the continental breakfast is quite generous. When booking, make sure to specify if you prefer a shower, as some rooms only have bathtubs.
Mid-Range/Budget: The Cross Inn
With the youth hostel no long open, budget options are hard to come by in Hebden Bridge. However, The Cross Inn offers an excellent value at a reasonable price. It is a bit further from the center of town, but still quite manageable. Every room boasts its own private bathroom, and the historic building and pub have tons of character.
Ickornshaw & Cowling
High-End: Cowling Hill Farm Holiday Cottages
Cowling Hill Farm offers beautiful self-catering cottages set in a lovely pastoral location near the Pennine Way. Accommodation is minimal on this stretch of the trail, limited mostly to self-catering rentals. The Cowling Hill Farm Cottages are consistently one of the highest rated of these options.
Budget: Winterhouse Barn B&B
This friendly accommodation is perfectly suited for Pennine Way walkers. It is located right along the trail and provides a variety of lodging options in its bed and breakfast, summer house, and camping area. The kind hosts ensure that guests are comfortable and well fed.
Gargrave
High-End: The Coniston Hotel Country Estate
This luxury hotel is located about three miles from where the Pennine Way passes through Gargrave, so walkers should plan on arranging for a taxi or transfer from the trail. While it might take a little more effort to get there, the pampering you’ll receive upon arrival will make it well worth it. The Coniston Hotel earns its four-star rating with its excellent spa, fine dining, and beautiful guest rooms.
Mid-Range: Premier Inn Skipton North (Gargrave)
The best feature of the Premier Inn is that is is located just off the trail in Gargrave, and it’s the only accommodation in the area that can boast this kind of proximity. Convenience aside, the Premier Inn also has nice rooms with comfortable beds, hot showers, and an optional breakfast. The attached pub is helpful if you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner.
Mid-Range: GreenGrove Country House
GreenGrove Country House B&B is located about three miles from the trail, but you can take a taxi or ride the train from Gargrave to the village of Bell Busk. Those seeking a welcoming bed & breakfast experience will not be disappointed at GreenGrove. The hosts are friendly and go above and beyond to make sure guests feel comfortable. The breakfast is incredible, the rooms luxurious, and the views splendid.
Malham
High-End: The Lister Arms
Set in an 18th-century country house, The Lister Arms welcomes guests with loads of cozy charm. The classic pub is the perfect place to enjoy a well-earned pint after a long day of walking, and the rooms are clean, comfortable, and stylish. The B&B is located just steps from the Pennine Way, as well as close to a variety of shops and restaurants in Malham.
Mid-Range: The Buck
This cozy pub offers en suite rooms and a delicious breakfast at a good value. The beautiful historical building is centrally located in Malham and very close to the Pennine Way. The friendly staff are very accommodating to walkers, and dogs are welcome too.
Budget: YHA Malham
YHA’s are always a high-quality budget option, and the Malham location is no exception. The comfortable hostel offers dorms, private rooms, and camping pods, as well as a self-catering kitchen and a good restaurant. The property is close to the Pennine Way and surrounded by beautiful countryside. It’s a good idea to book well in advance, as the hostel fills up quickly in peak season.
Horton in Ribblesdale
High-End: Broad Croft House B&B
This B&B manages to be relaxed and walker-friendly while still feeling luxurious and upscale. All of the well-appointed rooms have en suite bathrooms and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The friendly hosts can provide continental breakfast if you want to hit the trail early, as well as a full English for later risers. The dog-friendly camping pods are also a great option. There is a two-might minimum for weekend stays in the high season, but Pennine Way walkers can make this work by using the rail line to get to various start and end points along the trail.
Mid-Range: The Crown Hotel
This charming traditional bed & breakfast is perfectly situated along the Pennine Way. The cozy pub has tasty food and a wood-burning fireplace for chillier evenings. The rooms are clean, spacious, and functional, although the wifi signal can be a bit unreliable.
Budget: 3 Peaks Bunkroom
Although this bunkhouse is specifically designed for walkers on a budget, it’s definitely a step up from your typical dirtbag digs! The bunkrooms and bathrooms are spacious and include plenty of thoughtful touches to make your stay more comfortable. The self-catering kitchen is well -stocked for all types of cooking. For those who don’t want to cook, the Golden Lion Pub is conveniently next door. Keep in mind that the bunks do not come equipped with linens, although they can be rented for £10 per person.
Hawes
High-End: The Board Inn
The Board Inn provides excellent service and a convenient central location. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with plenty of thoughtful touches. There’s a great pub downstairs and the hearty breakfast (Full English and Vegetarian options) will keep you going all day.
Mid-Range: The Fountain Hotel
This centrally located hotel provides comfort and convenience at a good value. Although the rooms are basic, they are clean and modern. Guests can opt for a private or shared bathroom. The friendly hosts provide excellent service throughout your stay, and they will make sure you are well fueled with their delicious breakfast and pub fare.
Budget: YHA Hawes
This YHA boasts clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere. The property has lovely common spaces, including a cozy lounge, bar, and well-equipped kitchen. Rooms vary from shared dormitories to private accommodations, all of which are a great value. The hostel is quite close to shops, restaurants, and the Pennine Way route.
Keld
High-End: Frith Lodge B&B
This atmospheric B&B is set in a stunning location with grand vistas of the Dales in every direction. Guests will enjoy warm hospitality, well-equipped rooms, and delicious homemade meals.
Mid-Range: Butt House B&B
This cozy B&B is centrally located in the small, idyllic village of Keld. The guest rooms offer thoughtful touches and great views, and the common area is a perfect place to relax after a long day on your feet.
Mid-Range: Greenlands B&B
With two excellent mid-range options in Keld, we couldn’t choose just one for this guide! Greenlands B&B is located a little under a mile from Keld and the Pennine Way, but the wonderful hospitality and unique accommodations make it worth the extra walking. The well-appointed rooms are set in the original cottage (dating from the 1800s) and include luxury toiletries, tea and coffee, and high-quality linens. The B&B is equipped for walkers with a drying area and laundry service.
Budget: Keld Bunk Barn
This unique accommodation puts a luxury spin on the classic bunkhouse. Not only are affordable-yet-plush dorm beds available, but there are also private en suite rooms and deluxe yurts for rent. Enjoy a soak in the private hot tub and dine on delicious homemade meals to really make the most of this little oasis in Keld.
Tan Hill Inn
High-End: Tan Hill Inn
The Tan Hill Inn is an iconic stopping point along the Pennine Way. The historic inn has loads of character, and the pub serves up traditional food, ales, and a perfect cozy atmosphere. The Tan Hill Inn’s remote location means that it is the only accommodation option on this stretch of the route, so make sure to book well in advance. The bathrooms are quite small, but the guestrooms are otherwise quite nice and the views of the surrounding landscape are phenomenal.
Middleton in Teesdale
High-End: Brunswick House
Guests rave about the comfortable beds and superb breakfast at Brunswick House. This lovely B&B provides plenty of thoughtful touches to make your stay as pleasant as possible. The cozy bar and lounge area is a great place to relax. after a long day of walking.
Mid-Range: Belvedere House
This traditional B&B earns high marks for its impressive cleanliness and warm hospitality. Enjoy a soak in the bath at the end of the day and start your next morning off right with the generous breakfast. Belvedere is conveniently located very near the Pennine Way, and there is an excellent pub next door.
Budget: The Teesdale Hotel
The Teesdale Hotel is well-situated for Pennine Way Walkers, and it is a good value option along this part of the route. The rooms, while a bit dated, still have plenty of nice amenities, like a coffee/tea maker and a spacious desk. The restaurant serves up very good food, which can either be enjoyed in the cozy dining room or on the lovely patio.
Dufton
Mid-Range/Budget: YHA Dufton
There is so much to love about this YHA hostel, including its proximity to the Pennine Way, charming decor, and plentiful amenities. The lovely common areas include a spacious garden, beautiful lounge, and well-equipped kitchen. The restaurant serves up delicious meals, too.
Budget: Dufton Caravan Park
Campers will appreciate the flat grassy pitches, wide open views, and clean, modern facilities at Dufton Caravan Park. Even if you aren’t carrying a tent, the hobbit huts make for a functional, comfortable, and affordable accommodation option. The friendly hosts go above and beyond to make walkers feel welcome.
Garrigill
High-End: Gatecroft Barn & Spa
Gatecroft Barn and Spa is a luxury self-catering holiday cottage in the heart of Garrigill. It enjoys gorgeous views of the quaint village and surrounding hills. The renovated barn is cozy and tastefully decorated, with every little detail accounted for. The private hot tub is a welcome treat for sore muscles.
Mid-Range: Eastview Bed & Breakfast
This homely B&B welcomes walkers with delicious food and top-notch service. The charming stone building boasts a cozy lounge and comfortable guest rooms. Little luxuries like robes and slippers makes this accommodation feel extra special.
Budget: Greg’s Hut
Greg’s hut is a free bothy located about halfway between Dufton and Garrigill. The bothy was established in memory of climber John Gregory, and is now maintained by Greg’s Hut Association and the Mountain Bothies Association. It is basic, but cozy and charming. The bothy is a welcome respite in bad weather along this high and remote stretch of the Pennine Way. If you are able, be sure to leave a donation to support this special place.
Alston
High-End: Alston House Hotel
This 4-star hotel is centrally located near shops, restaurants, and the Pennine Way trail. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and beautifully decorated. The hotel restaurant serves up hearty traditional British fare and real ales in a cozy, welcoming dining area.
Mid-Range: Lowbyer Manor Country House
Lowbyer Manor Country House provides excellent service and accommodations at a great value. The beautiful 18th-century building is full of character, as well as being conveniently situated in the center of town. Guests will enjoy a warm welcome upon arrival and a delicious breakfast to see them off the next day.
Budget: Alston Youth Hostel
Walkers of all ages will appreciate this excellent budget option in Alston. The friendly hosts are avid outdoor enthusiasts and provide everything necessary to accommodate Pennine Way walkers, from a spacious drying room to excellent hot showers. The facilities are spotlessly clean and the breakfast is fabulous.
Greenhead
High-End: The Greenhead Hotel
The Greenhead Hotel provides lovely en suite rooms and exceptional service. Everything here is up to a very high standard, from the plush bath towels to the generous breakfast spread. The staff are welcoming and attentive, and the location is just a short walk from the trail.
Mid-Range: Blenkinsopp Castle Inn
The Blenkinsopp Castle Inn is another wonderful accommodation option in Greenhead. It is not quite as conveniently located for Pennine Way walkers, but a practical choice nonetheless. The well-appointed guest rooms and clean, modern, and spacious. The food in the restaurant is excellent and the terrace is a great place to relax after a long day on the trail.
Mid-Range: Hadrian’s Holiday Lodges
Don’t be fooled by these pods- you’ll feel more like you’re staying at a 4-star hotel than anything resembling camping! Guests can choose between B&B or self-catering options, and the well-appointed pods come equipped with en suite bathrooms. The friendly hosts are happy to share their extensive knowledge of the local area.
Once Brewed
High-End: Layside
Layside is a boutique accommodation offering three luxury rooms set in an idyllic landscape. The property has all of the benefits of a self-catering cottage, such as a private entrance and spacious interiors, while still providing all of the great hospitality of a traditional B&B. A fabulous breakfast spread is delivered to your room in the mornings, and they will also arrange for an evening meal or picnic lunch on request.
Mid-Range: The Twice Brewed Inn
The Twice Brewed Inn is an excellent option for Pennine Way walkers. Not only is it close to the trail, but it also has welcome luxuries after a long day on your feet, such as a great pub and a dedicated drying room. If you’ve got the time and the energy, be sure to check out their stargazing experiences.
Budget: Winshields Campsite
In addition to the lovely campsite, Winshields also offers a well-appointed bunkbarn. Set inside a beautifully converted stone farm building, is a step above your typical camping dorm. The bunkbarn is available for group bookings of up to five people, and comes with a private lounge area and all linens included. The shower and bathroom facilities at Winshields are super clean and the hosts provide a warm welcome.
Bellingham
High-End: Fountain Cottage B&B
From the excellent service to the clean and modern guest rooms, Fountain Cottage B&B gets every detail right. This cozy accommodation is conveniently located close to the Pennine Way, as well as a short walk from shops and restaurants. The onsite cafe serves up delicious meals as well as a top-notch afternoon tea.
Mid-Range: Brown Rigg Guest Rooms
Guests love how clean, spacious, and comfortable the rooms are at this welcoming accommodation. The guest rooms and holiday lodges are set inside the historic Brown Rigg School buildings, providing a unique and atmospheric experience. The beautiful setting and thoughtful touches make this an excellent values.
Budget: Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site
Even if you don’t have a tent, you can enjoy the well-maintained facilities and great value at the Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site. In addition to their tidy and level tent pitches, the Club also offers glamping pods. These simple but cozy pods make a great budget option in Bellingham. The campsite is located steps from the Pennine Way and just a short walk from the shops and restaurants in town.
Byrness
Mid-Range: Forest View Inn
This quirky B&B is housed in a former YHA hostel, meaning that it offers a variety of room types and handy amenities to accommodate walkers, such as a drying room and restaurant. The friendly owners are ready to welcome you with a perfectly poured pint and warm hospitality. All of the guest rooms are spotlessly clean and have private bathrooms (some en suite). There is limited space available for camping as well. Be sure to reserve early, as they book up quickly for the high season!
Budget: Spithope Bothy
Those seeking a free and rustic option may want to consider Spithope Bothy. Located about 45 minutes’ walk from Byrness (but not along the Pennine Way route), the bothy does require a bit of a detour. Spithope can comfortably sleep four, and it has a wood stove, table, and some basic cooking supplies.
Kirk Yetholm
High-End: Mill House
Celebrate your completion of the Pennine Way with a bit of luxury at the Mill House. This wonderful B&B features well-appointed and tastefully decorated rooms, with plenty of thoughtful touches. The location is ideal for walkers and the views of the surrounding scenery are magnificent. Breakfast is delicious and high-quality.
Mid-Range: The Border Hotel
Some might argue that the Border Hotel is the official finishing point of the Pennine Way. Regardless of whether you choose to stay the night, be sure to pop in to receive your free half pint and finisher’s certificate from the wonderful bar. The hotel has plenty of other great areas to unwind, including an excellent restaurant and outdoor terrace. All of the rooms come with private bathrooms, and some even have a kitchenette.
Budget: Kirk Yetholm Friends of Nature House
This recently renovated hostel is a great budget option in Kirk Yetholm. It features plenty of great amenities, like a communal kitchen, lounge, and drying room. With dormitory, private, and family rooms available, it can accommodate a variety of travel styles and group sizes. The accommodation is basic, but clean, comfortable, and well-located.
Have a Great Trip!
We hope you found this accommodation guide helpful and we wish you a wonderful Pennine Way walk. Be sure to check out our Pennine Way Maps & Routes article as you continue to plan your trip. Feel free to leave us questions or comments below. Happy Trails!
