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.
Table of Contents
The Route
- what3words for start point: ///switch.comfort.harmonica
- Start Point: Todmorden
- Finish Point: Todmorden
- Distance: 7 Miles
GPX Route Map
Download file for GPSWalk 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.
Memories memories. Myself and a friend walked to the Pike after school one day in the late 1950’s from Castle Hill, played there for ages and walked back to Cross Stone. Had our parents out looking for us until we returned hours later walking down Halifax Rd with not a care in the world. We were only 7 years old and in deep trouble.