Lady Anne’s Way

Lady Anne’s Way is a classic long distance walk extending for 100 miles from the rugged limestone countryside of the Yorkshire Dales, to the unspoilt villages of the Eden Valley. The trail was conceived as a tribute to Lady Anne Clifford, who devoted her life to the restoration of her castles, churches and monuments along this route in the 17th Century. From Skipton Castle in North Yorkshire the path runs north to the ruins of Brougham Castle on the outskirts of Penrith.

The Way takes in sections of the Dales Way in Wharfdale and the ancient green lane known as Lady Anne’s Highway along Mallerstang, visiting Lady Anne’s historically significant buildings along the route. The varied nature of this trail makes it appealing to both seasoned walkers and those seeking their first experience of a long distance hike. Starting with easy walking along the banks of the river Wharfe the route then takes a high path over the fells from Wensleydale into Mallerstang with its wild and dramatic scenery. Entering the Eden Valley the trail from Kirkby Stephen to Appleby is along soft flowing rivers leading through scenic villages on the way to Penrith.

In addition to the many castles, churches and monuments, the moorlands and meadows of Lady Anne’s Way are home to the likes of golden plovers and skylarks. Red kites and peregrine falcons can make an appearance too. When walking by slow flowing water, look out for Kingfishers. Early morning and again in early evening move quietly and keep an eye out for foxes or badgers, and when in woodland, watch for red squirrels and great spotted woodpeckers.

Our Holidays

We offer a range of walking holidays along Lady Anne’s Way. Enjoy 6 to 9 day walks along the entire length of this classic trail, or walk the Highlights of the Yorkshire Dales and Vale of Eden as separate routes over 6 days.

Please bear in mind that the distances each day are trail distances only. They do not take into account walking to your accommodation. On some days the accommodation might be on or close to the trail but on other days you may need to walk one or two miles to get to your overnight stop.

The Lady Anne's Way

Skipton to Penrith 100 miles/161 km

We offer 3 itineraries covering the whole route. You can choose from 6, 8 or 9 days depending how far you want to walk each day. The route does include remote moorland sections therefore it is worth bearing in mind that the 6 day hike is quite a challenging undertaking that serious walkers will enjoy.

Code Length Average per day Price range
LA7 6 days walking (7 nights) 17 miles/27 km £849 - £988 Full Info Book
LA9 8 days walking (9 nights) 13 miles/21 km £1072 - £1258 Full Info Book
LA10 9 days walking (10 nights) 11 miles/18 km £1189 - £1398 Full Info Book

Lady Anne's Way Highlights: The Yorkshire Dales

Skipton to Kirkby Stephen 63 miles/101 km

Concentrating on the dramatic and rugged section of Lady Anne's Way through the Yorkshire Dales, this route starts by following the river Wharfe along ancient tracks into Wensleydale. The path then takes the high route over the fells known as Lady Anne's Highway into Mallerstang, finishing in Kirkby Stephen.

Code Length Average per day Price range
LAD7 6 days walking (7 nights) 11 miles/18 km £849 - £988 Full Info Book

Lady Anne's Way Highlights: The Highway and The Vale of Eden

Hawes to Penrith 56 miles/90 km

This is a delightful route that starts from Hawes along the Lady Anne's Highway in the Yorkshire Dales. The trail then leaves the rugged moorlands behind with easy walking along the river Eden through lush green pastures and picturesque villages to finish at Brougham Castle near Penrith. Despite distances being short, there is plenty to see with time to explore the villages, churches and towns enroute, or simply to take in the views along the way.

Code Length Average per day Price range
LAE7 6 days walking (7 nights) 9 miles/14 km £849 - £988 Full Info Book

Client Feedback

The staff are very friendly and efficient, the info packs with supporting info are great, the accommodation options are varied and excellent.

Lady Anne’s Way, August 2023
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Excellent as always – one of the deciding factors in choosing Mickledore.

Lady Anne’s Way, May 2021
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Thank you Mickledore! This was our 6th trip with you, and it was great.

Tour of the Lake District, September 2023
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