Walks from Hebden Bridge

Recommended: A very enjoyable, direct and straightforward canal walk, almost entirely along the Rochdale Canal towpath following national cycle route 66. The terrain is nearly all level with a mostly gravel surface, though bridges and slopes past locks have cobbles and canal overflows run over cobbles across the towpath in several places. Tree cover gives a green-tunnel feel. Follows national cycle route 66 along the Rochdale Canal. Canalside interest: locks, houseboats, mileposts and stone bridges.

Waterway: almost all along the Rochdale Canal.

Time: 2h–4h

Lunch: Refreshment opportunities along the canalside towards Hebden Bridge.

Warnings: Canal overflows run over cobbles across the towpath in several places, with a raised plank alongside to keep feet dry.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

This is a gorgeous experience. A largely flat, easy-to-follow route predominantly along an off-road shared-use cycle path (national cycle route 66), with sections of canal towpath and woodland alongside the railway and quiet roads. Mostly step-free with only slight inclines; one short stretch on narrower busy-road pavements in Mytholmroyd. Some bridleway diversions are overgrown. Follows national cycle route 66 along the Rochdale Canal.

Waterway: nine tenths along the River Calder.

Woodland: a quarter under tree cover.

Time: 2h30–5h

Warnings: A short section of narrow pavement on a busier road in Mytholmroyd. A couple of tricksy points joining the canal and railside paths.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Fine hilltop views surprisingly close to Halifax. An interesting, varied walk of contrasts: tranquil canalside towpath, fine hilltop views surprisingly close to Halifax and a two-mile straight stretch of road through suburbs. A couple of points need care to stay on route. Passes the former Duke of Wellington's barracks and ends near a full-size replica of the Halifax Gibbet.

Time: 3h30–6h30

Warnings: At bridge No.7 over the Rochdale Canal a large metal gate is chained up and not easy to climb, with no footpath signs; a small detour may be needed to walk round Shepherd House. The tricky housing-estate section and the chained bridge can both be avoided by staying on the canal a further 0.5km to Luddendenfoot.

Walk details: Slow Ways.