The Pennine Hills are often described as "the backbone of England". There are few places where this is as apparent as on the broad summit ridge of Great Whernside, which sits on the eastern boundary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, between Wharfedale and Nidderdale. On a clear day, a substantial part of the north of England can be seen from here, from the North York Moors to the Lake District. This circuit from Kettlewell ascends through a secluded valley and returns via extensive earthworks, then along an ancient lane looking down on picturesque Wharfedale.