Hebden Bridge Loop, West Yorkshire UK

• 4-star hike
• 6 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 320m (1,040ft)
• Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire | United Kingdom
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The image shows an old stone bridge in a lush, green forest. The bridge is covered in moss and ferns, blending seamlessly with the surrounding vegetation. A small stream flows underneath the bridge, and a waterfall can be seen in the background.

Jumble Hole' picturesque stone bridge and cascading weir.

The Hebden Bridge Circular Trail leads hikers through the diverse landscapes of Calderdale, both wild and industrial, but always picturesque. Nestled in the narrow valley of Calderdale at the confluence of the rivers Calder and Hebden, Hebden Bridge developed during the Industrial Revolution as a mill town specializing in wool processing and textile production.

Hebden Bridge's distinctive stepped houses built on the steep valley sides create a unique architectural character. Today, Hebden Bridge is known for its independent shops, creative community, and as a gateway to the surrounding moorland landscapes.

The circular trail is best walked counter-clockwise, beginning with a step-climb out of town in the direction of the hilltop village of Heptonstall. As the path ascends, the landscape transforms from the sheltered valley bottom to exposed moorland. The higher sections of the route cross areas of upland pasture, predominantly used for sheep grazing, and provide extensive views across Calderdale and the surrounding Pennine landscape. On clear days, visibility can extend for miles across the undulating moorland.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Hebden Bridge Loop 5.6 mi loop, moderate, gain 320m (1,040ft)
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P £ Free and paid parking. Expand map for options.

Watch for public footpath signs and be sure to use our map as you navigate the sometimes confusing route alongside ancient stone walls, as it cuts through farms, past backyards and over fields of sheep. Beyond the village of Blackshaw Head, you'll head into a valley where the trail becomes easier to follow.

This steep-sided wooded valley was once the site of several water-powered textile mills operating along its length. The large stone ruins of the late 18th century Staups Mill were removed in 2022 for safety reasons. Further down the valley**,** some low-level ruins can still be found, including the picturesque spot of Jumble Hole where water cascades over an old weir, framed by a stone bridge. Complete your loop back to Hebden Bridge with a pleasant and level walk along the towpath of the Rochdale Canal, where you can wave at holidaymakers cruising by on their rented canal barges.

The image shows a picturesque valley with lush green hills and a small village nestled within it. The village has several buildings, including houses and what appears to be a few larger structures, possibly apartments or commercial buildings. A winding road runs through the village, connecting the various buildings and leading out of the valley. The hills surrounding the village are densely forested, and the landscape extends into the distance with more rolling hills and patches of open land. The sky is partly cloudy, adding to the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the scene.

Looking into Calder Valley and towards Mytholm.

We categorize this trail as moderate due to some wayfinding difficulties, occasional overgrown narrow paths, and some slippery surfaces in wet conditions. A counter-clockwise route will help to mitigate some of the slippery surfaces**,** as trail conditions in Jumble Hole's valley offer a fair amount of traction on the descent.

The 'directions' link in this article will take you to the closest free parking opportunity, though that car park is very popular and likely to be full. We have labeled several parking options, both free and paid, that are close to the trail. You can find them by expanding the map and turning on the resources layer in the sidebar.

A person walking along a narrow stone path through a grassy field. This individual is wearing dark clothing and a backpack. The path leads towards a distant landscape of rolling hills, fields, and scattered trees. On the right side of the image, there's a stone wall and a fence, with wildflowers and tall grass growing nearby. The sky is partly cloudy, with patches of blue visible.

Crossing farmland atop the hills.

The image shows a person wearing a red jacket and beige pants walking on a narrow wooden bridge with metal railings. The bridge is situated in a lush, green forest area with dense vegetation. Below the bridge, there is a small stream or river with clear water flowing over rocks.

A trail bridge leads into a dense woodland valley.

The image shows a person wearing a red jacket walking along a narrow path beside a canal. The canal is bordered by lush green trees and vegetation. On the canal, there is a colorful narrowboat painted in green and red, with the name 'Saracen' visible on the front. The boat has several people inside, and there is a bicycle on its roof.

Returning to Hebden Bridge along the canal.

The image shows a picturesque scene of a canal viewed from under a stone bridge. The canal is flanked by old stone buildings with green windows, and there are trees and greenery along the water's edge. The water in the canal is calm, reflecting the buildings and trees.

Rochdale Canal towpath in Hebden Bridge.

Tangents:
• External Links: Staups Mill
• AllTrails Public: Hebden Bridge Circular
• Trailspotting Nearby: 5★ Brontë Falls (4-6 mi)
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

A castleated tower with defensive walls and colorful heraldic crest.

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