Stuart Completes the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

Behind The Scenes

The Boss and Founder of Lovelight Studio took to the challenge of completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in September.  And he did it!  What an amazing thing to do.  We all cheered him on virtually.

Yorkshire Three-Peaks Challenge at the top of one of the peaks

Here are some words from Stuart about the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

In September, I had the incredible opportunity to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, a remarkable journey that tested my limits and brought my family together. 
Covering a distance of 40 kilometres with 1500 meters of climbing, this challenge was no small feat. But I was fortunate to have my two brothers and my nephew by my side. What made this adventure even more special was the reunion with my brother from Australia, whom I hadn’t seen since 2008.

Our goal was to complete the walk in 12 hours, and much to our delight, we achieved it in just over 11 hours. The weather was on our side, although it did get quite hot at times.  The route took us through three majestic peaks: Penny Y Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. We started our journey in the darkness of the early morning (5 a.m.), beginning from Horton in Ribblesdale. Following the route anticlockwise, we were rewarded with breathtaking views and faced challenging hills along the way.

A staggering total of 56,118 steps were taken to conquer this route, each one representing a step closer to our collective success.

Although my glutes and calves will require some rest and recovery, I am pleased to say that I managed to avoid any blisters along the way. The physical challenges were worth every step.

Looking forward, we may even strive for the National Three Peaks challenge in the future. But for now, I highly recommend the Yorkshire Three Peaks to anyone seeking a great day out, an unforgettable adventure, and an opportunity to bond with loved ones.

Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this journey. Your encouragement and positivity were instrumental in our success.  The Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge has left an indelible mark on my heart. I will cherish the memories made, the bonds strengthened, and the pure exhilaration that comes from pushing boundaries.

If there’s a challenge that beckons you and your loved ones, embrace it. The rewards are not just in reaching the destination but also in the journey itself.

Mixture of views on the Yorkshire Three-Peaks Challenge

What is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?

Nestled in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge stands as a testament to the natural beauty and rugged terrain of Northern England. This iconic hiking challenge beckons adventurers from around the world to conquer three of Yorkshire’s highest peaks – Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough – all within a single day. The challenge covers a gruelling 24-mile route, offering trekkers not just physical endurance but also stunning vistas that paint the Yorkshire landscape in all its glory.

As dawn breaks, hikers embark on their epic journey, starting with the ascent of Pen-y-Ghent. With its distinctive shape dominating the horizon, this peak sets the tone for the day’s adventure. The trail then winds through rolling hills and verdant valleys, leading trekkers to the colossal Whernside, the highest of the three peaks. As hikers ascend, they are rewarded with panoramic views stretching across the Dales, a testament to nature’s grandeur. Finally, the route leads to Ingleborough, shrouded in mist and mystery, captivating the soul with its ancient aura.

But the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is not merely a test of physical prowess; it’s a spiritual journey, a communion with nature that fosters camaraderie among fellow hikers. Along the way, participants share stories, encourage one another, and find solace in the shared struggle against the elements. The sense of achievement upon completing the challenge is unparalleled, a feeling of triumph that lingers long after the trek is over. So, lace up your hiking boots, embrace the spirit of adventure, and join the ranks of those who have conquered the Yorkshire Three Peaks – a truly unforgettable expedition into the heart of Yorkshire’s untamed wilderness.

Views of the viaduct during the Yorkshire Three-Peaks Challenge

Father and children in a studio portrait with light tops on and a white wall behind