Walks in Huddersfield

Sarah Gaffney-Lang, Families Editor

With the Pennines on its doorstep, along with the Colne Valley, Huddersfield has a lot to offer when it comes to walking and if getting the all-weather gear on is what you’re into then our Walks in Huddersfield Guide has you covered – whether it’s a mooch around the historic Byram Arcade or up to the iconic landmark Castle Hill (for which sensible hiking shoes are essential!).

Testament to the universal love of exploring on foot there are a number of organised groups – ‘Hello Huddersfield’ offer informal heritage trails and maps full of ideas for exploring the Pennines waterways and there is also a range of official National Trust walks around the Marsden Moor Estate which are guided and can be booked.

For families, Greenhead park (which is a 20-minute walk away from the train station) is unmissable and features two play areas, a miniature railway, a large pond, and plenty of green parkland to meander (or race) across. If you are staying at the luxurious Titanic Eco-Spa and have access to a car then a trip to Beaumont Park is perfect for the little ones (and taking just 25 minutes on foot, it’s also doable to walk). Beaumont is the oldest ‘public’ park in Huddersfield at no less than 125 years old, and really packs a punch in terms of things to do – with woodland to explore, playgrounds and a large pond with an impressive water feature.

Heading out to the up-and-coming Slaithwaite area you’ll discover hidden gems in the form of independent businesses like Om Is Where The Heart Is which make the area perfect for a good pootle around getting plenty of steps in over the course of a few hours.

All in all, there are ample ambles to be had in and around this historic town.

Here are our picks

  • 1. Manor House Lindley

    Courtesy of Manor House Lindley

    Manor House Lindley, 1 Lidget Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD3 3JB - Visit now

    A little over two miles out of Huddersfield town centre, in a leafy residential suburb lies the Manor House Lindley – a stunning boutique hotel which features two restaurants, three bars, and eleven uniquely-styled bedrooms. If you are basing yourself at the Manor House then the good news is, you will be perfectly located for hikes around the surrounding countryside including the National Trust Marsden Moor Estate.

    What’s more, the fabulous Greenhead park is a six-minute drive away (or a 25-minute walk). This historic green space is incredibly popular with families boasting two play areas, a large pond, paddling pool, band stand, miniature railway, and tennis courts. All in all, it’s a fantastic place to soak up the beauty of the changing seasons and the tree lined paths are perfect for a roam before heading back to the comfort of your cosy hotel room to rest up.

  • 2. Castle Hill and Victoria Tower

    Food and drink delivery in Huddersfield
    Courtesy of Welcome to Yorkshire

    Castle Hill and Victoria Tower, Hillside, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD4 6TA - Visit now

    What is undoubtedly Castle Hill’s most iconic landmark is also a much-loved spot for walkers. Climb the 138 steps up to the grade II listed Victoria Tower, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Huddersfield and the surrounding countryside.

    For hikers, the 20-kilometre Holme Valley Circular Walk is popular and joins-up Holme Valley, Castle Hill, and the villages of Farnley Tyas, Thurstonland, Hepworth, Netherthong and Honley. For visitors looking for a slower pace or those pushed for time, there are several footpaths around the hilltop and picturesque trails across nearby woodland. Castle Hill is also a prime picnic spot on warmer days with bird watching opportunities aplenty and a visiting ice-cream van.

    If you are seeking spectacular views combined with a stimulating walk, then Castle Hill is not to be missed.

  • 3. Byram Arcade

    Courtesy of Byram Arcade

    Byram Arcade, Westgate, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 1ND - Visit now

    Limber up in preparation for exploring the plethora of independent shops, bars, restaurants, and cafés in Byram Arcade. Occupying three floors, the space is an architectural gem – packed with colourful period features including a spectacular glass roof. It’s location – a four-minute walk from the train station, in the heart of Huddersfield town centre, makes it a must visit for any shopper.

    It proudly promotes some of the area’s best-loved retailers and businesses with a focus on ‘the independent and the artisan’. A mooch around Byram Arcade is an excellent way to while away a few hours and with so much great produce on offer you are unlikely to leave empty handed.

  • 4. Titanic Spa

    Titanic Spa

    Titanic Spa, Low Westwood Lane, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD7 5UN - Visit now

    You might quite rightly wish to spend your time at the Titanic Eco-Spa zoning out, immersing yourself in the incredible state-of-the-art facilities and that would be completely understandable. If you are staying in one of its 33 luxury rooms for more than one night though, and are considering exploring the surrounding areas, there are plenty of excellent walking spots including the Colne Valley Walk which takes in Marsden, Slaithwaite and Milnsbridge via the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.

    If you have kids in tow, then Beaumont Park is a must. Just a twelve-minute drive away, you’ll find a green oasis. At over 125 years old, Beaumont Park is steeped in historical importance not least because it was Huddersfield’s very first public park. The park achieved a green flag award in 2020, and here visitors will find a haven of nature as well as activity. There is stunning woodland to roam, a tree canopy walk, and steep cliffed areas, and a pond with striking fountains. With over 20 acres of sprawling parkland to explore there is thankfully, a rather useful visitors centre where walkers can obtain information and maps along with a café serving up hot and cold food and drinks.

    With the Pennines for a backdrop and a focus on wellbeing and the environment, stretching your legs is a good addition to any spa-break itinerary.