Great Shunner Fell

Great Shunner Fell is a Pennine summit in the Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire, England. At 716 metres it ranks as the national park's third-highest peak and is the top of Wensleydale. It sits between the villages of Hawes and Thwaite, and the Pennine Way crosses its broad back.

What can you see from the top?

The summit is a wide, peaty dome rather than a sharp ridge, but the outlook is generous. On a clear day Wensleydale opens out to the south, Ribblesdale to the southwest and Swaledale to the north. Further away you can pick out the hills of Cumbria and County Durham beyond the A66 corridor. A cross-shaped windbreak with stone seats stands on the top, and the trig pillar is built into its northern arm, so there is always a sheltered corner for a snack.

How do you get up Great Shunner Fell?

The shortest approach starts in Thwaite, in Swaledale. The out-and-back walk is roughly 12 km and takes most people 3 to 4 hours. The way is waymarked as the Pennine Way: first a track climbing from the village, then a flagged path across the moor.

Longer options begin in Hawes on the Wensleydale side. Walkers' guides give the Hawes route as about 15 to 18 km, taking 4 to 6 hours. Starting from Hardraw trims several kilometres off the distance.

Where do you park?

Space at Thwaite is very limited. Only a handful of cars fit near the start of the track a few hundred metres above the village. When it is busy, use the pay-and-display car park in Muker, about a mile away, or begin from Hawes instead.

When should you go?

Late spring, summer and early autumn bring drier ground and better views. The terrain is open and exposed, and weather on the Pennines can turn quickly. Pack warm layers, a waterproof, a map and boots that cope with wet ground. In low cloud the view is lost, so check the forecast for the higher fells before setting out.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Great Shunner Fell?

It stands at 716 m above sea level, making it the third-highest summit in the Yorkshire Dales and the highest point of Wensleydale.

How long does the walk take?

From Thwaite allow 3 to 4 hours for the round trip of around 12 km. From Hawes plan on 4 to 6 hours.

Do you need climbing experience?

No. It is a hill walk on a clear Pennine Way path with no scrambling. You do need reasonable fitness and clothing for changeable weather.

What is at the summit?

A cross-shaped stone shelter with seats and a trig point, plus views over three dales: Wensleydale, Ribblesdale and Swaledale.