Photo credit: Dyer’s Holiday Cottage

This year, Heritage Open Days are celebrating the theme of ‘Routes and Connections’, exploring how people and ideas have moved around and come together throughout history. Calderdale certainly has its fair share of historic routes – the landscape is etched with ancient pathways that have been trodden for centuries. Among these, the Magna Via (also known as Wakefield Gate) and the Calderdale Way stand out as significant for their historical and cultural importance. These routes not only offer stunning views and challenging walks but also serve as windows into Calderdale’s past.

The Magna Via and Wakefield Gate: The Ancient Thoroughfare

The Magna Via, also known as Wakefield Gate, is one of Calderdale’s oldest and most storied routes. This medieval road, whose name translates to “Great Way,” once served as the primary route between Halifax and Wakefield. Dating back to the 12th century, the Magna Via was crucial for trade and communication, connecting the wool-producing regions of Calderdale with the broader markets of West Yorkshire and beyond.

The route starts in Halifax, winding its way up towards Southowram, before descending into the Calder Valley. Along the way, travellers would have encountered inns, toll houses, and the occasional religious sanctuary, all of which played a part in the journey. The Magna Via was not just a road; it was a lifeline for the communities it connected, enabling the flow of goods, people, and ideas. One of the most significant stretches of this route is Wakefield Gate, a steep and cobbled section that descends into Halifax. This part of the road is still visible today, its ancient stones bearing the marks of centuries of use. Walking along Wakefield Gate is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to the medieval travelers who once relied on this route.

The importance of the Magna Via waned with the advent of modern roads and the industrial revolution, but its legacy remains. Today, the route is celebrated by walkers and historians alike, with many sections incorporated into modern footpaths and walking trails, like this one provided by Walking Britain. The organisation Calderdale Heritage Walks regularly deliver guided tours exploring these ancient transport routes, and in 2022, Halifax Civic Trust spearheaded a project to raise awareness of the Wakefield Gate, including installing new signposts, information boards and commissioning this film to celebrate this unique and little known part of Calderdale’s medieval past.

The Calderdale Way: A Modern Journey Through History

In contrast to the ancient Magna Via, the Calderdale Way is a relatively modern creation, but one that is steeped in history and natural beauty. Originally created to mark the formation of the borough in 1974, this 50-mile circular route celebrates its 50th birthday this year. Circling the whole of the Borough, the route offers walkers a comprehensive tour of Calderdale’s diverse landscapes and historical landmarks. The Calderdale Way begins and ends in the market town of Brighouse, taking in a variety of terrains, from rugged moorlands and wooded valleys to picturesque villages and historic sites. The route is well-marked and can be completed in sections, making it accessible for walkers of all abilities – the Heart of the Pennines website provides detailed guidance for walking the route, whilst Visit Calderdale have created a 5-day itinerary for those brave enough to complete the route all in one go.

One of the key features of the Calderdale Way is its ability to showcase the region’s rich industrial heritage. As you walk, you’ll encounter remnants of Calderdale’s textile mills, stone quarries, and canal networks, all of which played a crucial role in shaping the district’s identity during the Industrial Revolution. The route also passes by ancient packhorse trails, which were once used to transport goods across the Pennines long before the advent of modern roads.

The Calderdale Way isn’t just about history, though. It’s also a celebration of the area’s natural beauty. The route offers breathtaking views across the Calder Valley, with its patchwork of fields, forests, and waterways. Whether you’re navigating the high moors above Todmorden or descending into the lush valleys near Hebden Bridge, the Calderdale Way provides a constantly changing backdrop that reflects the area’s unique geography.

The Intersection of Past and Present

The Magna Via, Wakefield Gate, and the Calderdale Way represent different eras of Calderdale’s history, yet they are interconnected. The Magna Via offers insight into the medieval world of trade and travel, while the Calderdale Way reflects the district’s industrial and natural heritage. Together, they highlight how Calderdale’s landscape has been shaped by human activity over the centuries, and how these ancient routes continue to play a role in the district’s cultural life. Walking these routes today is more than just a physical journey; it’s a journey through time. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a history enthusiast, exploring Calderdale’s historic routes offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying the beauty of the present. So, lace up your boots, pack your map, and set out to discover the stories that have been etched into Calderdale’s landscapes for centuries.