Work off that extra portion of Christmas Pudding or escape from the in-laws with a stroll at one of Calderdale’s many beautiful scenic spots.

Cromwell Bottom

Cromwell Bottom Local Nature Reserve is located next to the River Calder and Calder & Hebble Navigation just outside Brighouse. It is one of Calderdale’s richest areas in terms of biodiversity, with over 130 species of plant, 200 species of birds, large numbers of mammals, amphibians and invertebrate life.

The Reserve is mainly woodland, with a good network of paths, including a wheelchair and pushchair accessible route. Click here for more information.

Hardcastle Crags

Sheltered from the moorland wind, this deep wooded valley is an enchanting mix of wood, water and stone.

The National Trust has put in some superb waymarked walking routes suitable for all abilities. It’s a wonderful place for children – crossing the river on stepping stones and spotting birds, insects, amphibians and if you’re lucky, deer!

Hardcastle Crags offers a completely different experience throughout the year – from the icicles of midwinter to the carpet of bluebells in the spring. Click here for more information.

North Dean Woods

A fine example of the type of woodland that used to cover much of the countryside in the North of England, North Dean Woods lie on the outskirts of Greetland and offer an extensive network of footpaths, including part of the Calderdale Way.

You will also discover a wide variety of plant, bird and wildlife life, with over 60 species of birds recorded there and squirrels, rabbits, newts and frogs often seen. Click here for more information.

Ogden Water

Set high in the Pennine hills, Ogden Water Local Nature Reserve covers some 60 hectares with a walk around the reservoir and a number of footpaths through the surrounding woodland. The moors and fells beyond wait to be explored too.

Ogden Water offers the chance for quiet, informal recreation through these walks, a chance to see wildlife and to listen to the sounds of water, wind, woodlands and moorlands. Click here for more information. 

The Calderdale Way

The Calderdale Way is a 50 mile (80 km) walk exploring the hills, moors and valleys of Calderdale. It is an ‘up and down’ journey with few level sections. However, the higher levels provide some exceptionally fine panoramic views and are well worth the effort.

Numerous link paths connect the Calderdale Way to the valley floor, which means the route can be walked in several short stages. The walk encircles Halifax, Hebden Bridge and Todmorden, following old packhorse ways across the open gritstone hillsides with sections of traditional stone causeway.

The route passes through medieval hillside settlements such as Heptonstall, Lumbutts and Mankinholes and old mill towns on the banks of the River Calder.

A short diversion along the Pennine Way takes in the popular walk to the 100ft monumental landmark, Stoodley Pike, which dominates the skyline above Todmorden. Click here for more information.

When you’re enjoying Calderdale’s beautiful countryside, please follow the Countryside Code.

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