The Settle Loop was the first section of the Pennine Bridleway to be opened in the Yorkshire Dales National Park in August 2005. It is a 10 mile (16km) circuit which takes in some stunning limestone scenery including views of the nationally important Malham Tarn, Yorkshire’s Three Peaks and Attermire Scar.
Much of the route was impassable to horse riders and cyclists and some sections along the Gorbeck Road were so badly damaged it was difficult to stand up! With 100% funding from Natural England (website opens in new window), however, the route has been restored to allow horse riders, cyclists and walkers to enjoy this fantastic circular route once again.
Starting in Settle, the loop climbs steeply out of this lovely town into the National Park, traverses a wonderful limestone upland, before descending back towards Settle on mixed gravel and grass trails. There are many other bridleways in the area which can be used to extend your journey by linking to Malham village and Tarn, and over into Littondale and Wharfedale.
Please note that the route is steep, tough and reasonably remote in places – riders and walkers will need to be fit. Experienced off-road cyclists could expect to complete the circuit in around 2-3 hours but for walkers and horse-riders this is an all-day activity.
To help you enjoy the Settle Loop, a new leaflet has been produced giving details of the routes, public transport details and accommodation listings. A copy of the leaflet can be downloaded in two parts below:
This leaflet is also available free of charge from all National Park Centres.
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