BRONTE WATERFALL WALK, HAWORTH

Take a trip back in time on this popular Howarth waterfall walk…

Start: Bronte Village, Haworth, BD22 8QN

Distance: 5 miles

Duration: approx. 2 hours

Elevation: 400 feet

Navigation: follow the route here

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Lace up your walking shoes and let the echoes of Wuthering Heights guide the way as you explore the landscape that inspired some of the most iconic works in English literature.

Haworth

The village itself is home to many quaint tea rooms, souvenir shops and a few quirky pitstops you can’t afford to miss. Our favourite is The Cabinet of Curiosities, a traditional shop that’s been restored it to it's former glory as a Victorian druggists and apothecary shop.

Cabinet of Curiosities

The museum-like shop truly is like stepping foot in an old apothecary store, warmly lit by glass globes, fragranced with exotic oils, and packed from floor to ceiling with rich mahogany and glass display cases. Over the years the family-run business has taken on a true labour of love, salvaging many of the shops fittings from chemists, grocery shops and museums to replicate the ‘wonder-rooms’ of a time gone by.

You could easily spend a full day here, but we were dying to check out Bronte Waterfall and Top Withens, a ruined farmhouse which is thought to be the inspiration for Heathcliff’s home in Wuthering Heights.

Bronte Waterfall and Top Withens

The Bronte Waterfall is a great place to rest on your way to Top Withens (Wuthering Heights), Alcomden Stones or Ponden Kirk (The Fairy Cave). Top Withens (also known as Top Withins) is a ruined farmhouse near which is said to have been the inspiration for the location of the Earnshaw family house in Wuthering Heights.

Originally known as ‘Top of th'Withens’, Top Withens is thought to have been built in the second half of the 16th century by George Bentley. At the time of the Brontës, it was inhabited by Jonas Sunderland and his wife Ann Crabtree (from 1811) and then their son, Jonas, with Mary Feather (from 1833). It was last inhabited by Ernest Roddy in 1926.

On 18 May 1893, Top Withens was struck by lightning during a thunderstorm. Holes were made in the wall, the roof was partially torn off, flags were cracked, and around 30 windows were almost completely removed. Today, it attracts literary fans from across the globe, each wanting to take a peek at Heathcliff’s house.

Nature, literature, and history truly converge in this short walk, inviting you to experience the setting that inspired some of the most enduring works in English literature. Let the words of the Brontës echo in the Yorkshire winds—here, among the moors and waterfalls, the stories truly come alive.

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SCAMMONDEN WATER WALK

Short on time but want to get your Sunday steps in? Then take a trip to this idyllic reservoir just off the M62…

Start: Scammonden Water Car Park, HX6 4LD

Distance: 3.4 miles

Duration: 1 hour

Elevation: 250 feet

Navigation: follow the route here

Tucked away in the foothills of West Yorkshire, Scammonden Water offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This stunning little spot is surrounded by some of Yorkshire’s finest landscapes, and with the route itself clocking up just 3 miles, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk.

Looking for a quieter but more adventurous walk? Head up to Deanhead Reservoir where the surrounds are spectacular and the views plentiful.

Good-to-knows:

Parking: Free parking at Scammonden Reservoir car park, HX6 4LD

Transport: For those needing to use public transport, you can take a train from Manchester to Huddersfield then transfer to a local bus service. There is a bus stop on Saddleworth Road/Church Lane which is 0.8 miles from the Western side of the reservoir. Check train and bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Extend the route: Why not walk along the Standedge Trail or head to nearby Marsden Moor? Both locations are perfect for a full day’s adventure.

Places to eat: Peaks, canals, valleys, reservoirs… and plenty of places to rest your legs — Marsden has it all. Stop off at the nearby village and explore a wealth of outdoor delights and a rich industrial heritage.

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DIGLEY RESERVOIR

Wander alongside woods, through fields and up on the the moor on our Digley walk

Start: Digley Quarry Car Park, (nearest postcode HD9 2QD).

Distance: 5.38 miles

Elevation: 700 feet

Duration: 2 hours

Navigation: follow step-by-step

Located just outside the lovely town of Holmfirth, a walk up to Blackpool Bridge around the outskirts of Digley Reservoir makes a very enjoyable escape into some of Yorkshire’s most glorious countryside. Legend has it that the name Blackpool Bridge comes from the black pools below the bridge that once upon a time local people used to swim in.

This easy going five-mile circular walk will reward you with stunning views across the tops and down into the valley surrounding. You’ll walk through some typical Yorkshire scenes across moorland paths and streams, along lanes and drystone walls in the company of nothing but sheep. Have a well-earned rest and maybe a picnic alongside the Blackpool Bridge along the way, taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air and soak up the peaceful setting.

To begin your journey, park at Digley Quarry Car Park close to the reservoir. The car park is free, but be sure to arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends and public holidays. As you start your walk, take a moment to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding moorlands.

From here, you’ll follow the footpath towards Digley Reservoir, following the footpath that skirts the reservoir. On a sunny day, Digley Reservoir creates picturesque scene you won't soon forget.

Continue your walk towards the moorlands, following the well-marked trail that winds its way through the heather and bracken. The moorlands offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with panoramic vistas stretching for miles in every direction. Take a moment to catch your breath and appreciate the stunning beauty of this unique landscape.

About half way, you’ll find Blackpool Bridge — a great place to pause and take in the beauty of the moorland surrounding. The wooden footbridge sits high above the streams underneath, which flow through Dean Clough and Reap Hill Clough, join here before flowing down through Marsden Clough and into nearby Bilberry Reservoir.

It's quite a steep climb away from the bridge, but fortunately not a very long one. You are soon at the top of the hill and then into the heather-covered open moorland. As you walk along here, the hills in front of you carry the Pennine Way as it climbs towards the desolate peat-bog of Black Hill just to the south.

After dropping down to cross the stream at Hey Clough, there is then a short climb to reach the ruler-straight track known as Issues Road. As you walk along here, there are wonderful long-distance views to the east. The skyline is dominated by Emley Moor television transmitter, but on a clear day you can see the power stations at Ferrybridge and Drax, some forty miles away.

From here, you’ll travel along the outskirts of the reservoir and back up to the quarry at the starting point. Alternativley, if you want to take a short detour into Holme village, there’s a lovely pub called The Fleece which serves great food.

If you manage to resist the temptation of the villlage pub, it’s just a short walk alongside Digley Reservoir before we climb back the starting point.. and that’s it! Your easygoing, 5-mile walk complete.

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BEST WALKS NORTH YORKSHIRE: KILBURN WHITE HORSE

If you’re after a walk that has it all - from hidden lakes to cosy pubs - this route in North York Moors won’t disappoint

Start: Kilburn, YO61 4AH

Distance: 6 miles

Elevation: 875 feet

Duration: 2-3 hours

Navigation: Follow the route here

Tired of the same old boring treadmill walks? Want to spice up your exercise routine and take in some breathtaking views at the same time? Look no further than the North York Moors. The North York Moors is a beautiful and diverse area of natural beauty — making for a great base to explore the stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history of the region.

Walking in the North York Moors is like taking a step back in time. The rolling hills, lush green countryside, and charming villages will transport you to a simpler, more peaceful era. But don't let the idyllic scenery fool you, this area is also home to some serious natural beauty.

One of the must-see landmarks on a walk in the North York Moors is the Kilburn White Horse. This impressive hill figure, carved into the side of a hill, is believed to have been created in the 18th century and is a true marvel to behold. The best part? You can burn some calories and work those leg muscles while hiking up to get a closer look.

After you've had your fill of the Kilburn White Horse, head over to Gormire Lake for a more serene walking experience. This beautiful lake is surrounded by woods and heathland, and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the diverse range of plants and animals that call it home. Plus, the flat footpaths make it a great option for those who aren't quite ready for a mountain hike… as long as you start at the white horse, that is. Our route starts just below and features a steady (and breathy) climb up to the start.

The origins of the Kilburn White Horse are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been created in the 18th century. Some historians believe that it was created by a local farmer as a tribute to King George III, who was the reigning monarch at the time. Others believe that it was created by a group of local residents as a way to promote the area and attract tourists.

Over the years, the Kilburn White Horse has undergone several renovations and repairs. In 1857, a group of local residents formed the Kilburn White Horse Preservation Society, which was responsible for maintaining the horse and ensuring that it remained visible to the public. In the early 20th century, the horse was re-cut and re-chalked to ensure that it remained visible.

Today, the Kilburn White Horse is a popular destination for walkers and visitors to the North York Moors. It's a fascinating piece of history, and a testament to the enduring popularity of this ancient art form. The horse stands as a symbol of the area's rich history and culture, and a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

So next time you're considering a stroll up in’t the North York Moors, make sure to stop by the Kilburn White Horse and take a closer look. Not only is it a great workout for the ol’ legs, but a novel way to experience a piece of history that’s stood the test of time.

From the Gormire Lake to cosy country pub The Forresters Arms, the North York Moors is the perfect destination for nature lovers and pub dwellers alike. So scribble that gym sesh out your diary and head to the North York Moors for a walk you'll never forget. Trust me, your legs (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.

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BEST WALKS WEST YORKSHIRE: LUMB FALLS

Lumb Falls, located just above the charming Hebden Bridge, is a hidden gem that’s not to be missed.

Start: Bowling Green Car Park, Heptonstall

Distance: 6.7 miles

Duration: 2-3 hours

Elevation: 1,250 feet

Navigation: follow the route here

Nestled in a lush, green valley surrounded by rolling hills that look out onto nearby Heptonstall, this picturesque waterfall is the perfect spot for a peaceful and idyllic walk.

The walk to Lumb Falls is fairly easy, with well-marked trails that lead you through fields and wooded areas. The route takes you along a small stream, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. As you approach the falls, the sound of rushing water becomes louder and louder, until you finally reach the viewing platform where you can take in the full majesty of the falls.

After taking in the beauty of the falls, you can continue your walk along the winding path that follows the river. The path takes you through a peaceful wooded area, where you may spot a variety of wildlife.

As you make your way back to the starting point, it's worth stopping off at the nearby village of Heptonstall for a bite to eat and a drink. The village is home to a number of charming pubs and restaurants, including the friendly and welcoming The Cross Inn country pub. Here you can sit outside in the sunshine and enjoy a refreshing drink and a hearty meal, surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Lumb Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. The walk is easy and the views are breathtaking, and the nearby village of Hebden Bridge offers a charming and welcoming place to stop off afterwards. So if you're in the area, be sure to add Lumb Falls to your itinerary – you won't be disappointed!

Whether you're looking for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life or simply want to appreciate the beauty of nature, a walk through Lumb Falls is an experience you won't soon forget.

If you're feeling more adventurous, why not try the Hebden Hey Trail? This challenging route takes you through the heart of the Pennine hills, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is around 13 miles in total, so it's best suited to experienced walkers.

No matter what your fitness level or interests, there's a walking route in Hebden Bridge to suit you. So pack your walking boots, grab your camera, and discover the beauty of this charming village on foot.

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