The Old Nag's Head Inn is the official starting point of the Pennine Way. To the left of the old stone and half-timbered Inn is a stile. Follow the famous (or infamous) way, rambling gently westward below Broadlee Bank Tor through the Vale of Edale.

The path leads to the south-west below Broadlee Bank Tor to Upper Booth at the west end of the Vale of Edale. Walk through the farmyard and the Lee Estate ( in inclement weather, the information shelter may prove to be a particularly useful facility) to reach the packhorse bridge - Yongate, although not named as such on the map - and cross this to attain the foot of Jacob's Ladder.

The 'Ladder' - originally a series of steps cut into the hillside by Mr. Jacob Marshall, who lived at Edale Head House (the ruins are nearby) - provides a steep and winding ascent, but a steady pace should allow you to gain the summit without experiencing too much pain. On reaching the highest point of the old packhorse route, a brief detour west along the trail brings you to the ancient monument of Edale Cross. (The date 1810 was carved by one Thomas Gee of Ashes Farm, Hayfield; this gentleman and his companions took it upon themselves to right and secure this old boundary marker, erected by Cistercians of Holywell, which had finally submitted to the Pennine winds).

From the cross, retrace your steps to the summit of Jacob's Ladder then follow the perimeter path to the Noe Stool which stands above Edale Head and the Cloughs. Head east over boggy ground to the Pagoda, Pym Chair and the collection of weirdly eroded natural gritstone sculptures known as The Woolpacks; try to allow some time for exploring these dramatic rock shapes.

From the Woolpacks continue est to Crowden Ower, overlooking Crowden Brook. Magnificent viewpoint!! Cross the brook and follow the peaty path over Edale Moor (often wet in places) to Grindslow Knoll.

The slopes of Grindlow Knoll provide a skiers' playground, given good snow conditions. From the rocky top of Grindslow Knoll, above Fox Holes (which overlooks Grindsbrook), descend the path (steep in places) to attain the Vale of Edale. Once level terrain has been reached, simply follow the path to your left (east) to return to Grindsbrook Booth.