A new exhibition celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Pennine Way National Trail has opened at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes.
“A Trail of Inspiration. The Pennine Way at 60” showcases how England’s oldest National Trail has inspired creativity across generations, featuring work from artists, videographers, poets, and musicians.
From paintings and poetry to talking backpacks and rock music, each artist has uniquely expressed their appreciation for the beloved walking route.
The exhibition brings together emerging and renowned creatives, including Anita Sethi, Fredi Chohan, Jon Harrison, Kat Wheatley, and Kevin Threlfall. Each exhibit reflects the firsthand experiences of those who have walked the trail.
Neil Heseltine, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority’s Member Champion for Promoting Understanding, said: “The Pennine Way is so much more than a long-distance walking route; it is the result of a dream and a vision that continues to inspire.
“The artists’ contributions to our new special exhibition will stop you in your tracks. They have not only captured the experience of being on the Pennine Way, in all weathers and seasons, but they have delved into the story of the trail and have reflected on what it means to people today.
“Their work speaks a shared truth: no two journeys on the Pennine Way are ever the same. Whether you enjoy culture, are an outdoor enthusiast, or someone with your own memories of the Pennine Way, this exhibition is an unmissable tribute to England’s first National Trail.”
Visitors can explore work from artist Sally Zaranko, whose ‘Walking Weaving’ pieces, made from twigs, wool, and twine, depict her own experiences while travelling the trail. Yorkshire Dales-based writer Aila Taylor reflects on the ‘new world’ imagined by the trail’s creator – journalist and rambler Thomas Stephenson. There are also featured works from Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and Pennine Way guidebook author Damian Hall, who broke the record for the fastest time to complete the trail in 2020.
The Pennine Way, spanning 268 miles from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders, was envisioned by Thomas Stephenson as a “long, green trail” and has since become an iconic route traversing the rugged spine of northern England. The exhibition highlights how the trail continues to be valued by people of all backgrounds, whether as a personal challenge, or a weekend adventure.
Part of a year-long celebration marking the 60th anniversary of National Trails, the exhibition will be at the Dales Countryside Museum until 5th May before traveling to Hebden Bridge, Malham’s National Park Visitor Centre, Bowlees Visitor Centre, and The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre.
Find out more at www.nationaltrail.co.uk/pennine-way-at-60.
Admission to the Dales Countryside Museum is £5 for adults, £4.50 concessions (60s and over), and free for under-16s.
