Heptonstall and Hardcastle Crags

The route

Start from the hilltop village of Heptonstall and drop into the valleys around Hebden Bridge, taking in Hardcastle Crags before climbing onto the open moor to close a 24km loop. This is classic South Pennine terrain, where every valley means a steep climb out the other side, so the route feels tougher than a flat 24km and rewards strong legs on the ascents.

Hardcastle Crags

Hardcastle Crags is a deep, wooded ravine of oak, beech and pine cut by Hebden Water, with more than 15 miles of paths and the old Gibson Mill at its heart. It is one of the finest patches of woodland in the South Pennines and a cool, sheltered contrast to the exposed moor above. The route uses the valley paths before hauling up onto the tops, where the ground opens to heather, peat and the long views that define this corner of West Yorkshire.

Why it works

This is a proper Calderdale outing, honest about its climbs and varied in its ground. The woodland paths are good but rooty and can be slick; the moor is boggy and exposed, with navigation needed where paths fade in cloud. It suits a strong long run or a hard training day, and Hebden Bridge below is one of the best small towns anywhere for a post-run feed. Heptonstall itself, with its cobbles, ruined church and Sylvia Plath's grave, is worth time at either end. Save the moor sections for reasonable weather, carry a map, and expect wet feet whatever the forecast. This is a route that rewards fitness on the climbs more than speed on the flat, which is Calderdale running in a nutshell.