From Lancashire to Yorkshire by Car, Routes, Travel Times and Tips for Travellers
by Northern Life
Your trip across the Pennines will be a highlight of any visit to the North of England
The journey from Lancashire to Yorkshire is more than just a drive; it’s a passage through the heart of Northern England, a region defined by its dramatic landscapes, rich industrial heritage, and a centuries-old, friendly rivalry. Crossing the Pennine hills that separate the Red Rose County of Lancashire from the White Rose County of Yorkshire offers some of the most spectacular driving experiences in the UK. Whether you’re seeking winding country lanes, historic market towns, or the stark beauty of the moors, this trip promises unforgettable views and a deep dive into English culture.
Main Routes and Distances Choosing Your Path
The most direct route between the two counties is often the M62 motorway, the highest motorway in England. This major artery carves its way directly through the Pennines, connecting major cities like Manchester and Liverpool in the west with Leeds and Hull in the east. A typical journey from Manchester to Leeds via the M62 typically takes around an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions. While it’s the fastest option, it can be prone to congestion and severe weather conditions, especially at its summit near Windy Hill.
A59 over the River Ribble
For a more scenic and arguably more enjoyable experience, consider the A59. This road meanders from Preston in Lancashire through the stunning Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, before dipping into the Yorkshire Dales near Skipton. This route is slower and more challenging, with winding sections and steep gradients, but it rewards drivers with breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, stone-walled fields, and charming villages. The journey from Preston to Harrogate along this route could take two to three hours, but you’ll want to allow much more time for stops.
The Importance of Car Preparation for a Pennine Crossing
Before embarking on a journey across the Pennines, thorough preparation of your vehicle is not just recommended; it’s essential. The weather in this part of England is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly. What starts as a sunny day in Lancashire can quickly turn to dense fog, driving rain, or even snow on the high moorland roads of Yorkshire.
The true joy of this drive lies in the journey itself.
Maintaining your car in pristine condition is crucial. This includes checking your tyres, brakes, and brake fluid levels. However, you should pay special attention to visibility. Windshield wipers will be your best helpers when the inevitable downpour begins – RIDEX. For small, manoeuvrable cars like the Fiat 500, ideal for such roads, having effective wipers is crucial. We reviewed wiper blades for the Fiat 500 at BUYCARPARTS; they are suitable for all weather conditions.
When considering a replacement, it’s worth weighing your options. As the automotive experts from AUTODOC emphasise: “Are silicone wiper blades better than traditional rubber blades? The short answer is yes – silicone wiper blades typically offer superior durability and longevity, lasting 18-24 months compared to rubber blades, which last 6-12 months. However, they cost roughly double the price and may not suit every UK driver’s needs or budget”. For a trip across the Pennines, investing in a durable pair could mean the difference between a safe, pleasant drive and a stressful, hazardous one.
Scenery and Stops Along the Way
The true joy of this drive lies in the journey itself. The landscape is the star of the show. As you ascend from the Lancashire plains, the scenery transforms into a rugged tapestry of heather-clad moors, deep valleys (known as “dales” in Yorkshire), and dramatic gritstone outcrops.
If you take the scenic A59, a stop in the Forest of Bowland is a must. This lesser-known gem offers wild, unspoiled landscapes perfect for a short walk to stretch your legs. The charming market town of Clitheroe, with its Norman castle keep, provides an ideal taste of Lancashire life.
Clitheroe
Once you cross the border into Yorkshire, the town of Skipton, the “Gateway to the Dales,” welcomes you. Here you can explore a beautifully preserved medieval castle and a bustling high street. From Skipton, you are ideally placed to explore the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with its iconic destinations like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls just a short, scenic drive away. For those who appreciate literary history, the village of Haworth, once home to the Brontë sisters, is a worthy detour, its cobbled main street and surrounding moody moorlands evoking the very spirit of their novels.
Narrow boats in the canal basin at Skipton, Yorkshire, England
Useful Tips for Drivers
- Check the Weather: Before setting off, check the forecast specifically for high-level routes, such as the M62 summit or rural A-roads.
- Fuel Up: Petrol stations can be few and far between on the more remote scenic routes. Fill up your tank before you leave a major town.
- Beware of Livestock: On unfenced country roads in both the Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales, it is common to encounter sheep (and sometimes cows) on the road. Drive slowly and be prepared to stop.
- Use Your Gears: When navigating steep descents, engage a lower gear to help control your speed and save your brakes from overheating.
- Be Patient: You will likely get stuck behind tractors or cyclists. Embrace the slower pace of country life and enjoy the view.
Driving from Lancashire to Yorkshire is a quintessential English road trip. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw, natural beauty that divides and defines these two great counties. While the M62 provides speed and efficiency, the real adventure is found on the more minor roads that snake through the hills, connecting ancient towns and offering endless panoramas. By preparing your car properly, planning for a few memorable stops, and embracing the journey’s unhurried pace, your trip across the Pennines will be a highlight of any visit to the North of England. This drive is as rewarding as the destinations themselves.
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