HARDCASTLE CRAGS, HEBDEN BRIDGE
This 8-mile walk through Hardcastle Crags near Hebden Bridge is perfect for autumn, featuring stunning woodland, historic sites, and the charm of the Yorkshire countryside.
Start: Bowling Green Car Park, Heptonstall
Distance: 7.82 miles
Elevation: 950 feet
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot or download GPX file
About the route
This circular walk begins at Bowling Green Car Park in Heptonstall, a beautiful historic village near Hebden Bridge. This 8-mile route weaves through Hardcastle Crags’ dramatic landscape, full of ancient woodlands, river crossings, and open meadows, making it a superb choice for an autumn outing. The walk is especially captivating in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red. Along the way, you'll encounter Gibson Mill, a historic 19th-century mill run by the National Trust, and the resting place of literary legend, Sylvia Plath.
Route difficulty
Walk type: Easy-moderate circular walk with some inclines and rocky paths
Parking: Bowling Green Car Park, Heptonstall
Walk highlights:
Hardcastle Crags’ stunning rocky ravines and deep woodlands
Gibson Mill and its eco-friendly Weaving Shed Café
Sylvia Plath’s grave
Stepping stones
Route highlights
Hardcastle Crags Woods
Managed by the National Trust, Hardcastle Crags offers a varied landscape, from lush, rocky ravines to open woodlands of oak, beech, and pine. This diverse ecosystem is home to birds, insects, and even occasional deer. The National Trust has created several waymarked trails for all abilities, including stepping-stone river crossings, perfect for families and solo walkers alike.
Gibson Mill
Gibson Mill is a must-visit stop on your walk, located at the heart of Hardcastle Crags beside Hebden Water. This historic mill, operated by the National Trust, regularly hosts exhibitions showcasing the area's natural and industrial history.
The Weaving Shed Café serves delicious, ethically sourced food and drinks, providing a perfect spot to relax and refuel amid stunning woodland views. Don’t forget to visit the shop for unique souvenirs and locally crafted gifts.
Sylvia Plath’s Grave
At the starting point in Heptonstall, you’ll find the grave of poet Sylvia Plath. Her grave is located in the churchyard of St. Thomas the Apostle, a peaceful place that attracts visitors from around the world.
White Lion Pub
After your walk, head to the White Lion Pub in Heptonstall for a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This traditional pub, with its charming stone exterior and cosy interior, serves a range of local ales and hearty meals, making it the perfect spot to unwind after your adventure.
Other things to see and do in Hebden Bridge
After your walk, neighbouring Hebden Bridge has so much to offer. Known for its vibrant arts scene, local markets, and independent shops, it’s a wonderful place to explore and make a full day of it. The town is famous for its quirky charm, making it a lovely end to a day of walking. Make sure you check out the local art galleries or pop into one of the many cosy pubs or cafés.
Getting to the starting point
Arriving by car
Parking is available at the Bowling Green Car Park in Heptonstall. This convenient location is close to the start of the trail and offers a lovely view over the valley. Payment is by donation.
Public transport
You can reach Hebden Bridge from Manchester by train in under 30 minutes. From Hebden Bridge, Heptonstall is a short bus ride or walk up the hill.
✔️ Good to knows
Difficulty: This walk is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and uneven terrain. To navigate, you can use offline apps such as Komoot or download a GPX file for ease of tracking.
Accessibility: This is a carrier only route. There are some steep steps and rocky paths which aren’t suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. This route includes stiles.
Navigation: Gibson Mill’s Weaving Shed Café offers delicious food made with locally-sourced ingredients. There is also another café near the start of the route, ideal for grabbing a coffee or snack before setting out.
Food and drink: Gibson Mill’s Weaving Shed Café offers delicious food made with locally-sourced ingredients. You’ll find the cafe mid route. We also visited Town Gate Tea Room at the start of the route, ideal for grabbing a coffee or snack before setting out. And if you’re looking to make an evening of it, you’ll find plenty of pubs and restaurants in Hebden Bridge after your hike.
Parking: We parked at The Bowling Green car park in Heptonstall.
🧭 Following the route
I use komoot and OS Maps for offline navigation. To follow this walk step-by-step on komoot, simply click this link here or download the GPX file and upload it to your chosen app, such as OS Maps.
