Clapham - Austwick - Wharf - Norber Brow

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 11.0km loop offers a quintessential Yorkshire Dales fell running experience, balancing moderate elevation with fast, paved sections. Starting in the charming village of Clapham, you'll tackle a 131m ascent that rewards you with expansive views of the limestone plateau. The terrain is largely paved (10km), making it an excellent choice for runners looking for a consistent rhythm through Austwick and Wharfe before hitting the more rugged, undulating paths near Crummack Lane. Expect a mix of gentle climbs and sweeping descents that overlook classic dry stone walls and rolling green pastures, perfect for a steady tempo run or a scenic weekend long-distance haul.

Steeped in geological history, this route traverses the famous Norber Brow, home to the Norber Erratics—one of the finest collections of glacial boulders in Britain. These massive silurian gritstone rocks were transported by ice during the last glacial period and deposited atop the carboniferous limestone. As you run through Clapham, you are also passing through the estate of the Farrer family, who were instrumental in developing the local landscape and the nearby Ingleborough Cave. The area is a haven for those who appreciate the intersection of natural history and local heritage, providing a dramatic backdrop that makes every kilometer feel like a journey through time.