May is National Walking Month! Celebrate by exploring beautiful routes like the Bradford Millennium Way and Calderdale Way, especially as this year marks the 25th anniversary of the Bradford Millennium Way. While enjoying the landscapes, don’t miss the warm local hospitality. Cosy pubs and friendly chats make the journey delightful. Happy walking!
Calderdale Way Highlights and Pub Stops
The Calderdale Way is a 50-mile circular walk that explores the hills, moors, and valleys of Calderdale. You can walk it in sections, using the link paths from nearby towns and villages – detailed directions are provided on the Hearts of the Pennines website. You can also tackle the Calderdale Way as an epic multi-day hike – this itinerary provides guidance on how to do so, plus information on baggage transfer through Rake Hey Farm. Key highlights and nearby pub stops on the Calderdale Way include:
- River Ryburn: Flowing through Ripponden, this river is crossed by a bridge near The Old Bridge Inn, an ancient Grade II listed coaching inn that has remained largely unchanged for over 700 years. The inn offers hand-pulled beer and traditional dishes with a modern twist.
- Withens Clough Reservoir: Walk around the stunning Withens Clough Reservoir and be rewarded with views of open moorland and the wonderful Stoodley Pike monument. From Withens Clough, take a wander down to The Hinchliffe Arms, a classic country pub nestled in the picturesque village of Cragg Vale.
- Heptonstall: Enjoy this ancient historic village’s quiet charm as you meander along its cobbled streets before visiting some of its key attractions, such as the St. Thomas a Beckett church ruins, Sylvia Plath’s grave within the Heptonstall Church graveyard, and Heptonstall Museum. Stop off at The Cross Inn in Heptonstall, a pub often frequented by the famous Cragg Vale Coiners.
- Jerusalem Farm Nature Reserve – take some time to explore Jerusalem Farm, a 13-hectare nature reserve in the heart of picturesque Luddenden Valley. Close by you’ll find the Cat I’th’ Well pub and the Moorlands Inn pub, where you may want to stop for a delicious pub lunch.
Bradford Millennium Way Highlights and Pub Stops
The Bradford Millennium Way is a 45-mile circular route created by Countryside Service volunteers to commemorate the millennium. It highlights Bradford’s natural beauty and historical landmarks, with stunning views of woodland, moorland, streams, reservoirs, and valleys. The trail is divided into linear sections with easy access points, most of which are reachable by public transport. Here are some highlights along with nearby traditional pub stops:
- Brontë Falls: A serene spot associated with the famous Brontë Sisters, perfect for a reflective pause. Nearby, you can visit The Wuthering Heights Inn in Stanbury, which offers a cosy atmosphere, cask ales, and hearty home-cooked food.
- White Wells: Located on Ilkley Moor, this historic spa baths offer stunning views and a touch of history. Close by is The Wheatley Arms in Ben Rhydding, which provides a warm welcome, delicious food, and a great selection of drinks.
- Cow and Calf Rocks: These iconic rock formations on Ilkley Moor provide a great spot for climbing and photography. The Cow and Calf, a country pub, is just opposite the rocks, making it a perfect stop for refreshments. It’s a panoramic place to wine, dine, relax and rest up overnight.
- Shipley Glen: A beautiful, wooded valley with a rich industrial heritage. Nearby, you can find The Old Glen House, a welcoming country pub
Getting There by Bus and Train
Bradford Millennium Way:
- By Train: The route is accessible from several train stations, including Bingley, Ilkley, and Shipley. Northern Rail services connect these stations to major cities like Leeds and Bradford.
- By Bus: Bus services such as the 60, 616, and 662 routes provide access to various points along the Bradford Millennium Way.
Calderdale Way:
- By Train: the Calderdale Way starts in Brighouse, an easy train ride from nearby cities. Hebden Bridge and Todmorden are also key stations along the Calderdale Way, with regular services from Northern Rail connecting to Manchester and Leeds.
- By Bus: Bus routes including the 501, 563, and X1 serve the Calderdale Way, making it easy to reach different sections of the trail. The Heart of the Pennines provides public transport instructions for each section of the route.
Top Tips for Walkers
- Plan: Check the weather, plan your route, and bring a map and compass.
- Gear: Wear good boots and waterproof clothing. Layer for comfort.
- Hydrate: Carry water and snacks.
- Respect Nature: Stick to paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out litter. #RespectProtectEnjoy
- Safety: Inform someone of your plans, and carry a charged phone and first aid kit.
So, lace up your walking boots, grab a map, and set off on an adventure that promises stunning views and pub stops along the way.
