Great Shunner Fell
The highest peak in Swaledale, offering expansive Yorkshire Dales vistas via the iconic Pennine Way.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Great Shunner Fell
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The highest peak in Swaledale, offering expansive Yorkshire Dales vistas via the iconic Pennine Way.
"Summit views well worth the hike, a steady ascent on varied terrain."
Check the Weather 🌧️
Conditions change rapidly. Be prepared for wind, rain, and fog, even in summer.
Waterproof Boots 🥾
The higher sections can be boggy. Waterproof footwear is a must to keep your feet dry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit Shelter
Summit of Great Shunner Fell
A unique stone shelter with a triangulation pillar, offering respite and panoramic views from the highest point.
Panoramic Yorkshire Vistas
Summit of Great Shunner Fell
On a clear day, witness breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales, including the other 'Yorkshire 3 Peaks'.
The Pennine Way Path
Ascent route
Follow this iconic long-distance trail, a well-marked route that guides you steadily towards the summit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
+1Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather 🌧️
Conditions change rapidly. Be prepared for wind, rain, and fog, even in summer.
Waterproof Boots 🥾
The higher sections can be boggy. Waterproof footwear is a must to keep your feet dry.
Pack Layers 🥵
Temperatures can drop significantly at the summit. Bring extra layers for warmth.
Start from Hardraw 🏞
Many hikers begin at Hardraw, near the Green Dragon Pub, for a scenic route up the Pennine Way.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather 🌧️
Conditions change rapidly. Be prepared for wind, rain, and fog, even in summer.
Waterproof Boots 🥾
The higher sections can be boggy. Waterproof footwear is a must to keep your feet dry.
Pack Layers 🥵
Temperatures can drop significantly at the summit. Bring extra layers for warmth.
Start from Hardraw 🏞
Many hikers begin at Hardraw, near the Green Dragon Pub, for a scenic route up the Pennine Way.
Summit Shelter 🏞
The shelter at the top is a great spot to rest and admire the views, especially in challenging weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Great Shunner Fell for its rewarding summit views and the well-maintained Pennine Way path. While the hike is considered moderate, some find the higher sections boggy, and the exposed nature of the fell means weather can change rapidly. Overall, it's a highly recommended Yorkshire Dales hike for its stunning panoramas and sense of accomplishment.
"A lovely 9 mile walk from Hardraw to the summit of Great Shunner Fell and back. It's a nice steady ascent on the way up. It includes a variety of tracks, grass, and paving slabs with a few rocky bits. There's a lovely small tarn part way up too. On the summit, there's a triangulation pillar built into a shelter and great views."
Donna W
"A nice and easy walk that most might be able to do. 9.2 miles up and back, I completed it in 2 hours 37 and enjoyed the views 🔥"
Simon
"7 miles from Hawes, constant climb along Pennine way, well marked. Can be marshy towards top."
Chris J Simpson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Great Shunner Fell is accessible from several points in the Yorkshire Dales. Popular starting points include Hardraw, near the Green Dragon Pub, and Hawes. You can drive to these locations, with roadside parking often available.
While direct public transport to the summit is limited, you can reach nearby towns like Hawes by bus. From Hawes, you can then begin your hike. Check local bus timetables for routes serving the Yorkshire Dales.
Many hikers recommend starting from Hardraw for a steady ascent along the Pennine Way. Hawes is another popular base, offering a slightly longer route.
Yes, Great Shunner Fell is a popular day hike. The round trip from Hardraw is approximately 9 miles and can be completed in 3-4 hours, depending on your pace.
Generally, access roads to the starting points are open year-round. However, always check local traffic updates before your journey, especially during winter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to hike Great Shunner Fell. It is open access land, allowing you to explore freely.
Great Shunner Fell is accessible at any time of day. However, it's advisable to plan your hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
While there isn't a dedicated visitor center at the summit, you can find information in nearby towns like Hawes, which has a National Park Visitor Centre.
No permits are required for hiking Great Shunner Fell. It's part of the natural landscape of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Wild camping is generally discouraged in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. There are designated campsites in nearby towns like Hawes if you wish to stay overnight.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderate. While there's a steady ascent, the path is generally well-maintained, though it can be boggy in places.
A round trip from Hardraw typically takes 3-4 hours, covering about 9 miles. This can vary based on your fitness and how long you spend at the summit.
The trail includes a mix of paved sections, grass, and some rocky parts. Towards the summit, it can become marshy and boggy, especially after rain.
Facilities are limited on the fell itself. You'll find toilets and cafes in nearby towns like Hardraw and Hawes before or after your hike.
Yes, Great Shunner Fell is very dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy hiking with their pets, but ensure your dog is on a lead where necessary and always clean up after them.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow over the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive vistas. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare.
The summit itself provides the most dramatic panoramic views. The triangulation pillar also makes for an iconic photo subject.
While clear days offer the best visibility, dramatic skies with clouds can also create stunning photographic opportunities. Be prepared for all weather.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations for the Yorkshire Dales National Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are scarce on the fell. Ensure everyone wears waterproof footwear as the terrain can be boggy.
🚶 Hikers Seeking Solitude
Best times for solitude: Aim for weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) can also mean fewer people.
Be prepared for all weather conditions, as this can deter some visitors, leaving the fell more peaceful for those who brave it. +1🐶 Dog Owners
Your dog will likely enjoy exploring the varied terrain and taking in the fresh air. Important considerations: Always keep your dog on a lead when necessary, especially around livestock or if you encounter other walkers. Be mindful of the boggy sections and ensure your dog is comfortable with wet conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Pennine Way
As you ascend, the terrain can become more challenging. Be prepared for sections that are boggy and marshy, especially after periods of rain. It's common for hikers to need to deviate slightly from the main path to avoid the wettest areas.
Following the Pennine Way provides a sense of journeying through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The path itself is part of the experience, connecting you to the history of long-distance walking in the UK.
Weather Considerations and Safety
+1 It is crucial to check the weather forecast immediately before your hike and be prepared for conditions to be significantly different from those in the valleys below. Essential gear includes layers of clothing that can be added or removed as needed. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are non-negotiable.
+1 Many hikers recommend carrying a hat and gloves, even in summer, as the wind chill at the summit can be considerable. In case of poor visibility, such as fog, having a reliable navigation method (map, compass, or GPS) is vital to stay on track. While the hike is generally considered moderate, the unpredictable weather can add an element of challenge. Being well-prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience, allowing you to appreciate the stunning, albeit sometimes wild, beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
+1The Summit Experience
The views are extensive, with the ability to see all three of the famous 'Yorkshire 3 Peaks' and even the Howgills in the distance.
This expansive vista makes the effort of the climb entirely worthwhile. Many hikers enjoy a well-deserved break at the summit, taking in the scenery and perhaps enjoying a packed lunch. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the landscape make the summit of Great Shunner Fell a memorable destination.
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