Our top 3 hikes from Hebden Bridge

There’s something quite magical about Hebden Bridge: a little town tucked into the Pennine valleys, where woodland paths, moorland ridges and cosy cafés await you to explore. We at WILDher have wandered these hills many times and we want to share our three favourite walks - each one different, each one taking in the fascinating history and each one brimming with wild beauty.

1. Gibson Mill & Hardcastle Crags – gentle woodland amble

If you’re after a peaceful, low-level amble, start at Hardcastle Crags car park off Midgehole Road and head to Gibson Mill. This is woodland at its most stunning: beech and pine trees, the murmur of Hebden Water and moss-draped rocks. The route is gentle underfoot and perfect for a mindful stroll, about 6km there and back. There's a fire road to take if you are not steady under foot or riverside and lesser-trod paths for the more sturdy walker.

Gibson Mill itself is a lovely reward at your half way point - a restored 19th-century mill, powered sustainably, nestled deep in the woodland. It’s a place where history, nature and renewal meet. We love to stop here for a hot chocolate and delicious savoury pastry. Maybe you'll spot a dipper or a wagtail by the water or deer skulking about the trees. National Trust have marked paths for you to follow and explore. This is the number one walk if you are heading out with family and children.

2. Stoodley Pike – the moorland climb with big skies

For a more invigorating hike, head up to Stoodley Pike. This is a roughly 10 km circular walk (about 6 miles), which takes you across open moorland and up steep paths, but boy are the views are worth the effort! The monument at the top, the Stoodley Pike obelisk, stands tall and proud, looking out over the Calder Valley, and you can walk up the steps inside and stand on the balcony for 360 degree views.

As you ascend out of Hebden Bridge, the trees fall away and you’re met with wind-swept grasses, wide skies and a sense of wild openness. It'll certainly blow away any cobwebs! There’s a sense of history too, of old packhorse routes and boundary paths, that makes every step feel rooted in place. The descent back to town is a satisfying contrast: you leave the wild moor and return through ancient woodland and finally along the canal towpath.

3. High Brown Knoll – moorland calm and far-reaching views

Our third favourite is the circular walk to High Brown Knoll, another ~10 km loop that feels like a pilgrimage. The climb is steady rather than punishing and once you crest the trig point, you’re rewarded by sweeping panoramas across the Pennine moors. You'll see ancient working farms and ruins, protected moorland and an array of bird life like Curlews and Lap Wings.

One of the things we adore about this walk is you can stop at a little hidden gem on the way back - the Old Town Post Office shop and café, perched on the hilltop village. This spot feels like a secret: a cosy café serving good coffee in a spot where you can meet the proper locals. You'll meander through the gorgeous Nutclough Woods as you descend back into Hebden Bridge.

If you’re planning a trip to Hebden Bridge, these three walks are our go-to and if you want more information do get in touch. You can join a guided walk or explore yourself, by downloading OS Maps app to plan your route.