Exlore the winding cobbled roads and cosy pubs of this charming market town
Hebden Bridge is perfect a day out in winter (Image: Julian Paren / geograph.org.uk)
If you’re at a loose end over the ‘Twixmas’ period, a day out can be just the thing to break the cycle of lounging on the sofa, eating Christmas chocolate and watching films all day. There are certainly lots of places near to Greater Manchester which are beautiful to visit at this time of the year.
Among them is the town of Hebden Bridge, located just over the border in Yorkshire. Nestled in the Upper Calder Valley, this market town is surrounded by moody countryside which is particularly striking in the depths of winter.
Only a half-hour train ride from Manchester Victoria – or a little bit longer by car – Hebden Bridge is easily reached from the city but feels a world away. The town features rows of stone cottages, cobbled streets and a winding river crossed with scenic bridges.
It’s a beautiful place for a mooch on a chilly winter’s day. The town has no shortage of coffee shops and cafes where you can step inside and warm up with a hot drink and sweet treat, while there are scores of welcoming pubs, too, if you fancy something a bit more substantial.
A snow-covered frozen canal in Hebden Bridge (Image: Tim Green / Flickr)
What’s so great about Hebden Bridge is it’s what you make it. If you fancy a leisurely stroll along the high street and a browse of the shops, then you can do just that.
The town is known for its eclectic mix of retailers; you’ll find antiques shops which are like an Alladin’s cave, and independent boutiques where you can find items you can’t get elsewhere. It has several charity shops too where you can grab a bargain.
The ruined church of St Thomas a Becket in Heptonstall, which stands next to its replacement the St Thomas the Apostle Church(Image: MEN Staff)
Or if you want a more substantial walk there are lots of routes nearby which will take you into the surrounding countryside. Follow the towpath beside the Rochdale Canal and you’ll notice the town’s terraces and old mills give away to woodland scenery.
For a challenge, climb up the steep hill to Heptonstall, a separate village which towers above Hebden Bridge. Must-sees in the village include the ruined church of St Thomas a Becket, which stands next to its replacement the St Thomas the Apostle Church. In the nearby graveyard of American poet Sylvia Plath, who was married to Poet Laureate Ted Hughes, from nearby Mytholmroyd.
Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags(Image: Chris Combe / flickr.com)
Or venture north of Hebden Bridge to Hardcastle Crags, a beauty spot operated by the National Trust which features 400 acres of woodland. There are 15 miles of footpaths to explore which take you through a landscape of towing trees, tumbling streams and waterfalls.
It’s also home to Gibson Mill, a 19th century cotton mill which is totally off grid and hosts regular exhibitions, as well as being home to the Weaving Shed Cafe – but this is only open on certain days during the winter months so check on the National Trust website before your visit.
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