Best walks from Slaithwaite

Slaithwaite Station to Huddersfield Station

Mostly canal towpath, well surfaced and step-free, with only slopes and some cobbled sections at the locks. The valley deepens between Longroyd Bridge and Milnsbridge and with a mix of industrial stretches and lovely semi-rural sections; the climb up to Huddersfield station uses an old footpath. The towpath is well surfaced and largely suitable for wheelchairs, though some canal bridges have very narrow paths. The route can be split or extended at Marsden; check train times as not all services stop at Slaithwaite.

Tough: steep ascents. 8km.

A section of towpath near the railway viaduct in Huddersfield (between Birdhouse Lane and Manchester Road) has an unstable embankment wall and has been technically closed, though it remains in use; some cobbled sections by the locks can be steep.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Marsden Station to Slaithwaite Station

A straightforward, attractive and broadly accessible walk along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal towpath for its entire length, past many locks as the canal rises up the Pennines. Generally easy underfoot but not tarmacked and so muddy with large puddles in wet weather; some steep cobbled sections by the locks and one gate. Follows the Huddersfield Narrow Canal towpath the whole way, with a frequent three-minute train ride back. The last 100m at Marsden leaves the towpath along a narrow ridge.

Easy: 4km, moderate ascents.

A pub next to Marsden station.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route