Though Holmfirth is most famous for providing the backdrop for BBC’s hit sitcom, ‘Last of the Summer Wine,’ this West Yorkshire market town also happens to be the gateway to miles of spectacular rolling countryside, making it ideal for any keen outdoor adventurer.

Set on the edge of the Peak District National Park, the whole area is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

And whether you’re an intrepid walker or a seasoned hiker, this West Yorkshire market town really has it all, from easygoing trails and bridleways to hilly climbs and longer routes, like the 24-mile Holme Valley Circular Walk.

Don’t believe us? Read on for our guide to walking in Holmfirth.

 

1. Holme Valley Circular Walk – 24 miles
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There’s no better way to enjoy Holme Valley’s dramatic landscapes than with a challenging 24-mile tour of the best views the area has to offer.

The walk starts at Berry Brow Railway station near Huddersfield, heading south along the River Holme to Holmfirth. You’ll pass through the villages of Hepworth, Thurstonland, Holmbridge and Castle Hill, as well as several reservoirs and woodlands en route.

This 11-hour walk isn’t for the faint-hearted though, as with lots of ascending and descending, it can be quite challenging in places. Nevertheless, we think the views make it worth a try.

 

2. Three Reservoirs Scenic Short Walk – 1.5 miles
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Walking in Holmfirth is surprisingly varied, with routes to suit any age, skill and interest levels. For example, if you’re looking for a lighter, kid-friendly stroll with only the occasional steeper sections then the Three Reservoirs route is the walking route for you.

This route takes you around Ramsden Reservoir, Riding Wood Reservoir and Brown Hill Reservoirs, offering lots of picture-perfect views and interesting local wildlife to discover. 

There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy a picnic, and the car park also has a great picnic area, so you can even make an afternoon of it if the weather allows.

 

3. Harold Wagstaff Trail – 4 miles
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Harold Wagstaff, also known as ‘Waggy,’ was a Holmfirth-born professional rugby player nicknamed the ‘Prince of Centres.’ During his career, he was captain for England and also played for Yorkshire.

Whether you’re a rugby fan or you’re just interested in immersing yourself in the local history during your stay, this four-mile circular walk visiting places associated with Wagstaff’s life is a great walking route starting from the centre of Holmfirth.

 

4. Last of the Summer Wine Country Walk – 5 miles
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No guide of things to do in Holmfirth would be complete without at least one nod to what the town’s most famous for.

As fans of the long-running BBC comedy series will know, ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ was filmed in Holmfirth, with plenty of attractions related to the programme (including Sid’s Café and Nora Batty’s Cottage) remain today.

You could take the 10-mile ‘Summer Wine Magic’ vintage bus tour around all the key BBC filming locations or you could the opportunity to get your steps for the day in instead.

This popular five-mile route starts in the town centre and takes you past some of the show’s famous landmarks as well as the surrounding countryside.

 

5. Holme Moss and Ramsden Clough – 11.3 miles
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The Holme Moss and Ramsden Clough walking route is an 11-mile long loop located near Holmfirth. Classed as moderate, the trail takes you from Holme, on the edge of the Peak District National Park, through Digley and Bilberry Reservoirs.

Walkers will also pass through Marsden Clough, Black Hill, Holme Moss, Ramsden Clough and Brown Hill Reservoir, with lots of wildflower and bird spotting opportunities en route.

If you’re feeling fit, you could even test your stamina against the iconic Holme Moss incline, which was part of the Tour de France’s Yorkshire Grand Départ route in 2014.

Looking for a walking holiday in West Yorkshire? The Old Bridge Inn, Holmfirth is the ideal base to explore walking routes in Holme Valley and beyond – click here to find out more and book your stay today.