Walks in Marsden
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Marsden on foot.
Walk: Mardsen and March Haigh Reservoir
A walk with a trek across open moorland and hillsides to the March Haigh Reservoir, and then back alongside the mighty Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Good navigation skills are required for this walk. The Route what3words for start point: ///under.gains.tacky Start / Finish Point: Marsden Railway Station, Marsden, Huddersfield HD7 6AX Distance: 5 Miles GPX Route Map walkshiremardsenandmarchhaighreservoirDownload Walk Description Leave the railway station by the bridge, and turn right. At the junction, turn left down Reddisher Road - taking care as there is no pavement here. At the Public Footpath sign, turn right. Continue up the hill and to the left side of the cluster of trees, but swinging around to the right to meet a lane. Turn left and follow the lane past three farms before a slight double bend. Continue past two more farms and eventually, the lane becomes a tarmacked road at a junction. Turn right and then around the corner, walking past some houses. Carry on up the track veering to the right, past another farm and onto the open moorland. The path is clear enough on the ground as it steadily climbs on the hillside. Eventually after gently turning to the right, the path crosses a stream and then around some trees to the left to reach a road through a gate. Turn right, past the house, and turn left at the junction. Follow this track around to the right until it splits. Here, take the left fork, and then the public footpath to the left onto the open moor. Follow the clear path along the side of valley, across two footbridges and to meet the southern tip of March Haigh Reservoir. With the reservoir behind you, cross the stream, then keep it to your left as you head over the moor. Cross another stream and then turn left to follow a much clearer path.which follows the stream, and then crosses it. The path drops sharply here, over a bridge, then another, to join the Standedge Trail. The path meets Blake Lee Lane, turning right. Walk along this narrow road until it turns in Water Road, and turn right down Ainsley Lane. Turn left through the gap in the wall to the car park of the Standedge Tunnel Visitors Centre. Turn left over the footpath to cross the canal, and then follow the tow path all the way back to the railway station.
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: Butterley Reservoir
A lovely walk around this picturesque reservoir with stunning views of the valleys below on a walk up from the village of Marsden near the border with Lancashire. The Route what3words for start point: ///worm.ringside.deserved Start Point: Butterley Reservoir Finish Point: Butterley Reservoir Distance: 5 Miles GPX Route Map butterley-reservoirDownload Walk Description If you're a fan of scenic beauty intertwined with rich industrial heritage, then this walk starting near Marsden train station is an experience tailor-made for you. The convenience of beginning your journey adjacent to a public transport hub makes it effortlessly accessible for everyone, whether you're a local or a visitor relying on the train. Your exploration kicks off as you step onto the Kirklees Way, a trail that leads you away from the station and toward the captivating landscape of the reservoir. As you wander, you'll immediately be struck by the natural beauty surrounding you—water reflecting the sky, trees that sway in the wind, and open fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. But this isn't just any trail; it's a pathway that meanders through a region steeped in history. Marsden and its surroundings were once bustling epicenters for milling and cloth production. The very ground you walk upon has been tread by laborers, merchants, and industrialists whose efforts transformed this bucolic setting into a hive of human ingenuity and production. Every step you take is like a stroll through a living museum, where nature and history coalesce. If you're looking to make the most of your day, the journey doesn't have to stop at the first reservoir. Extend your adventure to include the neighboring reservoirs at Wessenden and Blakely. Each of these bodies of water has its own unique charm and story, and covering more ground gives you a deeper appreciation for the landscape's diversity. Whether you're out for photography, bird-watching, or simply savoring the sights, you'll find ample opportunity for enrichment. As you loop back to Marsden, don't forget to cap off your expedition by indulging in some local hospitality. The village boasts an array of quaint pubs and cozy cafes, each offering its own unique blend of traditional and contemporary fare. Whether you opt for a steaming cup of tea, a hearty pie, or a refreshing pint of local ale, you’ll find that it's the perfect way to refuel both body and spirit. This walk offers a unique blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and historical context, making it a perfect outing for individuals and families alike. Whether you choose the shorter route for a quick afternoon escape or extend your journey to encompass more reservoirs, you're in for a fulfilling experience. And regardless of how far you go, you’ll end your day with a deeper understanding of both the natural and human forces that have shaped this captivating region.
Walk: Scammonden Reservoir
An accessible wander around the Scammonden Reservoir, lodged between Worts Hill and Moselden Height near Huddersfield, in the shadow of the mighty M62 motorway. The Route what3words for start point: ///inert.skin.molars Start Point: Scammonden Water Car Park, Low Platt Lane, Huddersfield HD3 3FR Finish Point: Scammonden Water Car Park, Low Platt Lane, Huddersfield HD3 3FR Distance: 3 Miles GPX Route Map walkshirescammondenreservoirDownload Walk Description From the Wood Edge car park, nearest to the M62, walk towards the motorway and head through the gap in the fence onto a surfaced path. When the path forks, it doesn’t matter which one you pick, just follow it until you reach a fairly steep downhill path. Follow this path as it zig-zags down to just before the water’s edge. The path levels out, and then you turn left onto a permissive Yorkshire Water path running alongside the reservoir. Follow this for around half the length of the reservoir until you reach the sailing club. During construction of Scammonden Reservoir, the village of Deanhead was submerged and many buildings were demolished. Scammonden now holds a massive 7.8 billion litres of water. The path starts to rise to the left and goes through a gate. The path then meets another track coming down the hill on the left. Follow the path turning left down to the sailing club access road. Turn left on the access road and then turn first right to drop down towards the waterfront Near the bottom of the slope, turn left close to the high-water line and follow the path to the head of the reservoir passing through two gates which are close to each other. The path splits here, and you take the right-hand path, crossing a bridge to continue around the reservoir. After the bridge, follow the path on your left until you reach a tarmac ramp, just before the motorway. Veer right and follow the track with the fence on your right hand side over the dam embankment. At the end of the dam, retrace your steps up the zig-zag path to the car park. On the way home, why not take the Scammonden Road at Moselden Height (pictured below).
Walk: Huddersfield Narrow Canal
This wonderful walk starts in the centre of Huddersfield and is full of heritage and history for the industrial revolution. Follow the canal as it makes it's way up through the Pennines to Standedge tunnel which cuts through the hill side on it's way to Manchester. The Route what3words for start point: ///song.snacks.miss Start Point: Huddersfield Finish Point: Standedge Distance: 21 Miles GPX Route Map huddersfield-narrow-canalDownload Walk Description Starting in central Huddersfield make sure you take the time to spot the beautiful buildings of a bygone age. The canal is dotted with repurposed warehouse and factory buildings that relied on the canal for supplies and goods. There are excellent narrow locks to safely explore and hopefully see in use for that amazing photo. This is a long distance walk so we suggest you break it up into manageable chunks dependent on your walking ability. The contrast of the countryside outside of Huddersfield is stark as those industrial buildings give way to the stunning views of the Pennine footholds and the lovely villages such as Slaithwaite. You'll also be rewarded with a wide range of bird life nestled into the canal's ecosystem such as plover and curlew. The walk finishes (for Yorkshire) at Standedge tunnel, the deepest canal tunnel in the UK.
Walk: Marsden to Standedge Tunnel
A short family friendly walk along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal to Standedge Tunnel – one of the seven wonders of the waterways. The Route what3words for start point: ///curries.health.wobbles Start Point: Station Rd, Marsden, Huddersfield HD7 6DH Finish Point: Station Rd, Marsden, Huddersfield HD7 6DH Distance: 1 Miles GPX Route Map oldgoodsyardtostandedgeDownload Walk Description Starting at the Old Goods Yards in Marsden, where parking is available. You can join the towpath by Marsden Station and at Lock 42 on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Once on the towpath take the peaceful 15-minute walk along the scenic towpath towards Standedge Tunnel and see if you can spot the resident kingfisher that can often be seen skimming the canal between Lock 42 and the Visitor Centre. After passing under 2 bridges you will see the Grade II listed, 18th Century former Warehouse, in front of you. Did you know that not only is this now a visitor centre on the ground floor, but you can also get married here in the stunning setting overlooking the canal?* Continue along the path where you will reach Standedge Tunnel. The tunnel is one of the Seven Wonders of the waterways as it is the longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel in Britain. Once you have explored tunnel end, return to the towpath where you can enter the enchanting woodland for you return walk. When it the woodlands lock out of the old sheep pen and the wooden animals hidden amongst the trees. You’ll also be able to see the River Colne.
Walk: The Kirklees Way
The Kirklees Way is a scenic long-distance footpath that encircles the metropolitan borough of Kirklees in West Yorkshire, England. Spanning approximately 72 miles (116 km), this circular route offers a diverse and captivating journey through some of the region's most picturesque landscapes Designed for those seeking both a physical challenge and an opportunity to connect with the area's history and environment, the Kirklees Way provides a comprehensive experience of West Yorkshire's rural charm and historical depth. Whether undertaken in sections or as a complete circuit, the route promises a rewarding adventure for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. The Route what3words for start point: ///squeaking.thanks.kinks Start Point: Marsden Railway Station Finish Point: Marsden Railway Station Distance: 72 Miles GPX Route Map kirklees-way-west-yorkshireDownload Walk Description Marsden The journey often begins in the village of Marsden, nestled in the Colne Valley. Known for its rugged Pennine landscapes, Marsden is the gateway to the Standedge Tunnel, the longest, highest, and deepest canal tunnel in Britain. Wessenden Valley and Reservoirs From Marsden, the path leads into the Wessenden Valley, home to a series of reservoirs, including Wessenden Reservoir and Wessenden Head Reservoir. This area is known for its stunning moorland views and is a haven for wildlife. Black Hill and Holme Valley Continuing east, the route ascends Black Hill, one of the highest points in West Yorkshire, offering panoramic views. It then descends into the Holme Valley, passing through the village of Holme, known for its proximity to Digley Reservoir and Brownhill Reservoir. Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe Further along, the route passes through the villages of Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe. Denby Dale is known for its famous giant pies and the Denby Dale Viaduct, while Skelmanthorpe offers a glimpse of traditional Yorkshire village life. Clayton West and the Dearne Valley The path continues through Clayton West, then follows the Dearne Valley into the village of Flockton, offering a mix of wooded areas and open fields. Grange Moor and Emley Moor The path then heads towards Grange Moor and the towering Emley Moor Mast, the tallest freestanding structure in the UK. The mast is a significant landmark visible from miles around. Thornhill and Dewsbury As the route heads back towards the west, it passes through Thornhill, known for its historic Thornhill Parish Church and Dewsbury. Dewsbury is a large market town with significant historical architecture and a bustling town centre. Huddersfield The route skirts the town of Huddersfield, a vibrant town known for its impressive architecture, including the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and Lockwood Viaduct. The route offers glimpses of the town before continuing into more rural areas. Scapegoat Hill and Deanhead Scapegoat Hill is a small, elevated village that stands proudly on the hillside, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Continuing on the Kirklees Way, the route leads you to Deanhead, a remote area characterized by its rugged moorland terrain and a sense of isolation that feels far removed from the bustling towns below. Deanhead lies in the upper reaches of the Deanhead Reservoir. This section of the walk is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the raw beauty of the Pennines. Return to Marsden The route completes the circle as it returns to Marsden, bringing the journey full circle. Here, walkers can reflect on the varied landscapes, rich history, and natural beauty encountered along the Kirklees Way. Key Landmarks: Standedge Tunnel (Marsden) Wessenden Reservoirs Black Hill Digley and Brownhill Reservoirs Victoria Tower (Castle Hill) Emley Moor Mast Denby Dale Viaduct Thornhill Parish Church This journey through the Kirklees Way provides a comprehensive exploration of the area's natural and cultural heritage, making it a rewarding experience for hikers and history enthusiasts alike.