Salt and Pepper Pots from Skipton

The route

This 26.3km loop heads out of Skipton and into the rolling farmland and moor edge of the South Pennines, building gradually toward the gritstone scarp of Earl Crag. The early miles cross a patchwork of field paths, walled lanes and tracks that demand attention to navigation, before the ground opens up and climbs onto the breezy ridge above Cowling and Sutton-in-Craven.

The follies

The highlight is Earl Crag itself, where two listed monuments stand against the sky. Lund's Tower, built in 1887, and Wainman's Pinnacle, an obelisk raised as a Napoleonic memorial, are known locally as the Salt and Pepper Pots for their resemblance to the table set. From the edge at around 370m the view sweeps across the Aire gap to the long whaleback of Pendle Hill. The route then loops back north on tracks and paths toward Skipton.

Why it works

This is a route with character rather than big summits, trading mountain height for quirky landmarks, gritstone atmosphere and genuine moorland solitude close to a major town. The mix of field paths and open moor keeps the navigation interesting, and the towers give the day a clear focal point. It works well as a long training run with easy logistics, since Skipton has parking, a railway station and plenty of cafes. Watch the field-path navigation in the lower sections and respect grouse moor access on the high ground.

Getting there

Skipton is easy to reach, with a station on the Airedale line and several car parks near the centre. That makes the logistics simple for a route that otherwise feels surprisingly remote once you climb to Earl Crag. The two towers are visible for miles and make a satisfying turning point, marking the moment you swing back north across the fields toward town and a well-earned cafe stop.