The first stage of the 2008 journey is unquestionably a modest one at 7½ miles. It does, though, give the modern ‘journeyers’ an opportunity, whilst they still have the energy and enthusiasm that may not be in evidence when they have completed the journey, to get to know Settle. The time spent will be well rewarded.

During the day our path will join 2 long distance footpaths. The first is the Pennine Bridleway, a 250 mile trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders from Derbyshire to Northumberland. The second is the Ribble Way which follows the River Ribbles source from Gayle Moor to the salt marshes of Longton near Preston.

The route from Settle Station makes its way through the town and emerges onto limestone slopes before dropping down to the pretty village of Langcliffe. From here there is an ascent above a prominent limestone scar and then a descent on steps down the scar to Stainforth. An inviting grassed area by the stepping stones over Stainforth Beck makes an ideal lunch spot.

The path then heads across moorland and meets a rough track which joins a green lane with views of Penyghent before losing height gently on short cropped turf to meet a metalled lane. This in turn descends to the main valley road and into the bigger community of Horton in Ribblesdale before reaching the Millennium Stone which marks the end of this stage.