The Calderdale Way

The Calderdale Way

If you have ever considered walking a long distance footpath but found it far too daunting a challenge to undertake, then think again and take a look at the Calderdale Wayin West Yorkshire. We recently finished this 50 mile trek and I can highly recommend it to walkers of all abilities. It can be easily split down into bite sized chunks to suit the distance you feel comfortable with and there are lots ‘of jump off’ points so you can head back to your welcoming van by either bus or train and timetables can be downloaded so you have them to hand when needed. There are many caravan sites to choose from in the area but the CC site at HebdenBridgeis virtually on the walk itself and set in the beautiful and rugged Cragg Vale, once home to the infamous Coiners, led by ‘King’ David Hartley who was later to hang in Yorkfor his crimes. In my opinion the most impressive sections of the walk are from Cragg Vale to Todmorden, taking in sweeping views of the surrounding moors from Stoodley Pike and don’t forget the fab little market town of Todmorden. Then the section from Todmorden to Hebden Bridge has some of the most stunning countryside this land has to offer, top of the list has to be the hilltop village of Heptonstall, with of course a well earned pint of real ale in one of the village pubs, the aforementioned David Hartley was laid to rest in the now ruined church yard, it’s a real atmospheric place to stop and muse over bygone times and one not to be missed.  Hardcastle Craggs and HebdenBridgefollow within a few miles and both are worth spending time at in their own rights. The next leg takes you on through toward Halifaxon ancient packhorse routes with spectacular views on clear days. Some of the Caldedale Waysignage does now lead a little to be desired so I would most certainly recommend a guide book and an OS Explorer map and compass, just in case the mist comes down. The guide book I used was ‘Calderdale Way’ by Paul Hannon at the princely sum of £4.99 which can be obtained online. If you are interested in cycling, then the Tour de Yorkshire is following last years Tour de France route, this time going down the longest accent/decent in the UK, through Cragg Vale and Heden Bridge and then on to Haworth through nearby Bronte Country (another place well worth a visit in its own right) and finishing in Leeds for the final leg on Sun 3^rd of May this year, so book early if you want to see it pass by! This part ofWest Yorkshire has so much to offer whatever your tastes, so if you’ve never been, or you’ve been before and fancy a walking challenge then give it a try.