Walks in Mankinholes
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Mankinholes on foot.
Walk: Stanza Stones Trail
The Stanza Stones Trail is a captivating journey that weaves together the beauty of the West Yorkshire landscape with the power of poetry. This unique trail spans approximately 47 miles (75 kilometers) and is a tribute to the rich literary heritage of the region, featuring six original poems by Simon Armitage, the UK's Poet Laureate. Carved into stones along the trail, these verses are inspired by the elements, offering a profound connection between the natural environment and the written word. Route Start Point: what3words for start point: ///touched.crouching.materials Distance: 5 miles Start Location Name: Marsden Train Station Finish Location: Ilkley Train Station OS Route Map & GPX File stanzastonestrailDownload Route Description The Stanza Stones Trail begins in the bustling town of Marsden, located on the edge of the Peak District. From Marsden, the trail ascends through picturesque moorland, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The first poem, "Snow," can be found at Pule Hill, a location that perfectly captures the stark beauty of the moors, especially during winter months. Along the way, hikers will discover the "Rain" stanza carved near Blackstone Edge, where the relentless weather of the Pennines is encapsulated in verse. The "Mist" stone is located at Nab Hill Oxenhope. The Dew Stone is at Rivock Edge, Silsden. Continuing eastward, the trail leads to the village of Ilkley, crossing rugged terrains and passing through valleys that echo the poetic essence of Yorkshire. As you approach Ilkley Moor, the "Puddle" stanza awaits, hidden among the iconic rocks of this famous landscape. Down in the valley, the "Beck" Stone is at Backstone Beck Ilkley. This trail, with its combination of stunning landscapes and evocative poetry, is a celebration of Yorkshire's natural and cultural heritage, offering an unforgettable adventure for all who walk it.
Walk: Stoodley Pike
Starting in the border town of Todmorden this walk takes you up to Stoodley Pike monument and returns you to the town via the Rochdale Canal. The Route what3words for start point: ///switch.comfort.harmonica Start Point: Todmorden Finish Point: Todmorden Distance: 7 Miles GPX Route Map stoodley-pikeDownload Walk Description Embark on a journey to Stoodley Pike, a monument steeped in historical significance and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Constructed in 1856, the imposing edifice was raised to commemorate the conclusion of the Crimean War—a conflict that had engaged not just military minds but also the nation at large. The monument, with its pointed architecture resembling an obelisk, stands as a sentinel on the moorland, capturing the essence of a bygone era while offering a vantage point to see into the present and beyond. As you make your way up to this iconic landmark, you'll traverse routes that are part of both the Calderdale and Pennine Ways. These trails are exceptionally well-signposted, providing clear guidance even for the most novice of walkers. As you amble through, you'll find the landscape morphing around you, with vistas of rolling hills, fields dotted with grazing livestock, and the unique flora of the region. It's a picture-perfect example of English countryside, and it’s easy to lose yourself in the serene atmosphere. Once you've arrived at the Stoodley Pike monument, you'll have the opportunity to scale its internal stairway. As you ascend, each step takes you closer to an extraordinary viewing platform that offers panoramas unlike any other. From this elevated perch, gaze out over the Calder Valley, where patchwork fields, picturesque hamlets, and winding rivers unfurl before you like a living tapestry. On clear days, the view stretches even further, offering glimpses of lands that lie on the fringes of the horizon. The descent from the monument is equally compelling, guiding you toward the Rochdale Canal—a waterway teeming with history. This canal was a cornerstone of the Industrial Revolution, vital for transporting goods like coal and textiles. Nowadays, it serves as a haven for leisure activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. Walking alongside its banks, you can easily imagine the bustling activity that once defined this channel, replaced now by a peaceful ambiance that invites reflection. As your walk comes to a close, you can indulge in well-earned relaxation at one of the excellent pubs situated near the canal. These aren't just any pubs; they're establishments that blend traditional charm with modern comforts. Here, you can sip a pint of locally brewed ale or relish some hearty British fare, absorbing the local atmosphere and maybe even engaging in convivial conversations with fellow walkers or friendly locals. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or someone simply seeking solace away from the hustle and bustle, this walk to the Stoodley Pike monument and Rochdale Canal offers a multi-layered experience. You'll encounter historical landmarks, traverse beautiful trails, and even have the chance to unwind in classic British style—with a good pint in a cozy pub. All in all, it’s not just a walk; it's a journey through time, landscape, and local culture.
Walk: Sowerby Bridge to Hebden Bridge
This walk from Sowerby Bridge to Hebden Bridge will take you along the towpath of the Rochdale Canal and you will be surrounded by heritage and panoramic views. The Route what3words for start point: ///bats.begun.clubs Start Point: Sowerby Bridge Wharf Finish Point: Hebden Bridge Distance: 5.5 Miles GPX Route Map sowerbytohebdenDownload Walk Description Sowerby Bridge is where the Calder and Hebble Navigation seamlessly becomes the Rochdale Canal. Start the walk at Sowerby Bridge Wharf, the cobbled basin where the 18th-century canal buildings have been lovingly restored. You will join the Rochdale Canal at Lock 1 and follow it a short distance, past Lock 2 and then cross the road. After crossing the road, you can pick back up the canal and towpath at Tuel Lane Lock. Tuel Lane Lock is the deepest lock on Britain’s canals at 19 ½ ft, and boats can only travel through when lock keepers are present. Leaving Sowerby Bridge behind, you will follow through the leafy Calder Valley with its panoramic views. The next place you come across is Luddenden Foot followed by Brearley where you will see some canal-side cottages and a lock. Continuing along the towpath you will soon enter Mytholmroyd, the birthplace of poet Ted Hughes. As you carry on along the towpath, the quirky town of Hebden Bridge will be in front of you. Entering Hebden Bridge, you will first come across the Marina, then you can choose to explore the town's amazing independent cafes, shops and galleries or return to Sowerby Bridge by train or on foot.
Walk: Mary Towneley Loop
The Mary Towneley Loop is a picturesque 47-mile circular walk located in the South Pennines of northern England. Named after Mary Towneley, a passionate advocate for countryside access, the trail meanders through a diverse landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and serene moorlands. The loop, part of the larger Pennine Bridleway National Trail, is well-marked and suitable for both walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders. The Route what3words for start point: ///intention.thanks.lifelong Start Point: circuit designed to be tackled in sections Distance: 47 miles GPX Route Map Mary-TownleyDownload Walk Description Waterfoot: The loop typically starts in Waterfoot, a small town in Rossendale, Lancashire. From here, the trail ascends onto the moorlands, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Cown Edge: As you progress, you will encounter Cown Edge, a notable ridge providing expansive views across Greater Manchester and the Peak District. Long Causeway: The route continues towards the Long Causeway, an ancient packhorse route that once facilitated trade across the Pennines. This section includes cobbled paths and historic features. Widdop Reservoir: Further along, the trail skirts Widdop Reservoir, where you can enjoy the tranquil waters and the rugged landscape of the South Pennines. Gorple Road: After passing Widdop Reservoir, the route follows Gorple Road, a track that takes you through open moorland and offers a sense of remoteness and solitude. Walshaw Dean Reservoirs: The loop then leads to the Walshaw Dean Reservoirs, a series of reservoirs surrounded by beautiful, undulating terrain. This area is ideal for birdwatching and appreciating the natural beauty. Hebden Bridge: Descending into the Calder Valley, the route reaches Hebden Bridge, a picturesque market town known for its artistic community and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot to take a break and explore. Stoodley Pike: Leaving Hebden Bridge, the trail climbs up to Stoodley Pike, a prominent hill topped by a towering monument. The views from here are spectacular, making the climb well worth the effort. Todmorden: The route then descends into Todmorden, another charming town in the Calder Valley. It's known for its historic architecture and community spirit. Hurstwood Reservoir: Continuing through the loop, you will pass by Hurstwood Reservoir, set in a serene valley and surrounded by lush greenery. Towneley Park: Finally, the trail takes you through Towneley Park, a historic estate with beautiful woodlands, gardens, and Towneley Hall, a historic house museum.
Walk: Pennine Bridleway National Trail
From the Peak District to the Yorkshire Dales, follow old drover’s roads, ancient packhorse routes and bridleways on a journey through the stunning and varied landscapes of the Pennines. The Route what3words for start point: ///woof.perch.saves Start Point: Middleton Top, Derbyshire Finish Point: Ravenstonedale, Cumbria Distance: 205 Miles GPX Route Map penninebridlewayelev20200819Download Walk Description The Pennine Bridleway is the only National Trail specifically designed to be used by walkers, horse riders and cyclists. The 205 mile route stretches from Middleton Top in the Peak District to Ravenstonedale in the Yorkshire Dales and traverses a variety of landscapes, from open moorland to steep-sided wooded river valleys, along ancient packhorse routes, drovers’ roads and bridleways. The Yorkshire Dales section features spectacular limestone landscapes including great views of Malham Tarn and the Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside, as well as the 10 mile circuit of the Settle Loop. Much of the trail is stile-free and sections of it are accessible for those using all-terrain wheelchairs. The trail calls at historic Yorkshire towns such as Hebden Bridge as well as tranquil villages, and you'll find a host of pubs, cafes, accommodation options and visitor attractions along the way. You can walk a section of the Pennine Bridleway as a day out, or if you're looking for a longer walk , enjoy it as a multi-day adventure.
Walk: Hebden Bridge Canal
Discover Hebden Bridge and the Rochdale Canal. The Route what3words for start point: ///noise.nicer.latter Start Point: Hebden Bridge Station, Station Rd, Hebden Bridge HX7 6JE Finish Point: Hebden Bridge Station, Station Rd, Hebden Bridge HX7 6JE Distance: 1.8 Miles GPX Route Map hebdenbridgeDownload Walk Description Starting at Hebden Bridge Station, join the towpath of the Rochdale Canal and turn left. Heading along the towpath you will soon approach the town and marina. Look out for the buildings that are old textile mills, full of heritage and character. Hebden Bridge was, and still is, known for the production of corduroy. Once known as the Trouser Town!You will pass by Calder Holmes Park but continue along the towpath. Whilst walking take time to admire the interesting and colourful canal boats. Just past the park you will need to cross the canal via the footbridge, at Black Pit Lock.Staying on the towpath you will reach Stubbing Upper Lock. There are lots of different plants and flowers along the towpath. Look out for butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies during the summer months. Not far from the lock you will arrive at Stubbing Wharfe pub. You will leave the towpath here and head towards the front of the pub, crossing the River Calder and turn right along the road. Follow the main road back into Hebden Bridge town centre. Hebden Bridge is full of amazing and quirky independent cafes, shops and galleries. Take time to explore the town centre and the market, if it is on. Once you have finished exploring, head back to the main road which will take you back to your starting point at the station.
Walk: The Calderdale Way
The Calderdale Way is a picturesque long-distance walking route that winds through the stunning landscapes of West Yorkshire. Covering approximately 50 miles, this circuit takes walkers through the scenery of Calderdale with a start and finish point just near Norland Moor Nature Reserve. The Route what3words for start point: ///lions.string.goods Start & Finish Point: New Clough Rd, Sowerby Bridge HX6 3RE Distance: 50 Miles GPX Route Map calderdale-way-routeDownload Walk Description Ripponden The starting point for many on the Calderdale Way, Ripponden is a charming village in the Ryburn Valley. The route then crosses through Soyland, Cragg Vale and Withens Clough Reservoir. Te Deum Stone A historical marker, the Te Deum Stone is a notable point on the route. The stone is shrouded in local legend. The route continues past Mankinholes and Limbutts. Todmorden A vibrant market town, Todmorden sits at the meeting point of three valleys. It’s an excellent spot to pause, explore the local shops, and perhaps enjoy a meal before continuing on. The route continues past Lydgate and Blackshaw Head. Heptonstall A historic village with cobbled streets and ancient buildings, Heptonstall is steeped in history and offers a fascinating stop on the Calderdale Way. The route continues on through Midgehole, close to Hardcastle Crags - a beautiful area with woodland paths. Midgeley Moor Crossing Midgeley Moor, you’ll experience expansive views. One waypoint is Churn Milk Joan, a standing stone on the moor and notable landmark. The route continues on through Booth, Causeway Foot and Mixenden. Illingworth Moor As you approach Illingworth Moor, the landscape opens up, with sweeping views across the moors and valleys, a true highlight of the Calderdale Way. The route then climbs up past Catherine Slack, Shelf and Northowram. Norwood Green A picturesque village with traditional stone houses and leafy lanes, Norwood Green is a peaceful stop. Bailiff Bridge then marks the transition from rural landscapes to the outskirts of urban areas. The route continues past Thornhills. Brighouse A bustling town, Brighouse offers a range of amenities and a chance to restock before heading into the final stages of the walk. The Calder and Hebble Navigation runs through this town. The route continues past Brookfoot and Freeman's Cut. Southowram Southowram sits on elevated ground, offering fantastic views back across Calderdale. The village itself has a rich history. West Vale and Greetland The final stretch of the Calderdale Way takes you through West Vale and Greetland, bringing your journey full circle with a mix of rural and urban landscapes.
Walk: Pennine Way National Trail
This iconic 268 mile walk takes you through three of England's finest national parks. The Route what3words for start point: ///mice.ages.improvise Start Point: Edale Finish Point: Kirk Yetholm Distance: 268 Miles GPX Route Map pennine-wayDownload Walk Description Embark on an epic journey along the Pennine Way, a majestic 268-mile trek that weaves through the heart of England's most captivating landscapes. Your adventure begins in the charming village of Edale, nestled in the rugged Derbyshire Peak District. From there, you'll set your sights northward, traversing the rolling hills and serene valleys of the Yorkshire Dales. As you journey onward, each step reveals the rich tapestry of England's natural beauty. You'll cross the historic Hadrian's Wall, a testament to ancient times, in the awe-inspiring Northumberland National Park. Your trek culminates in a triumphant arrival at Kirk Yetholm, a quaint Scottish village that marks the end of this extraordinary trail. Regarded as England's premier Long Distance Footpath, the Pennine Way is more than a hike; it's a pilgrimage through the soul of the Great North. While the path demands resilience and fitness, it generously rewards with unparalleled vistas and breathtaking landscapes. Highlights of this grand expedition include the surreal limestone pavements of Malham Cove and the towering trio of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Traverse the mysterious moorlands bordering Yorkshire and County Durham, descending into the Tees Valley, where the river guides you past a cascade of awe-inspiring waterfalls. Your journey reaches a crescendo as you ascend to the edge of a dramatic canyon, offering a panoramic view over the Eden Valley that will etch itself into your memory forever. The Pennine Way is not just a walk; it's a journey through history, nature, and the depths of your own endurance, culminating in an experience that transcends mere physical achievement.