Addleborough proudly presents its distinctive flat topped summit from most places along Wensleydale. The summit does have the look of the better known Ingleborough to the south west but in this section of the Dales, Addleborough stands out. The flat top makes for a good look out station (used by the Romans as part of their highway through the area, the Roman Road on the other side of Semer Water) and a commanding trig point. Rumour goes though the trig point was moved after originally being places on top of a Bronze Age burial site.
The steep sided flat topped summit is surrounded by plenty of typical peat moorland. Whilst peat is now correctly recognized as a national treasure it does make for some squelchy walking. However in summer the cotton grass which cover sections of the moors are a delight. To the west Semer Water stands out and further beyond is the Dales 30 summit of Wether Hill.
The approach from Thornton Rust is the most enjoyable and not at all long although some prefer the short sharp climb from the east, even adding in the extra 2km from Bainbridge.
