A thrilling country walk that’s turned into a yearly tradition with my crew, we set off last week once again from Burnley to Hebden Bridge. 🌿
Kicking off near Hurstwood, the trail serves up a perfect mix of winding country lanes, wide-open moorlands, sparkling reservoirs, and charming woodlands – all leading us to Hebden Bridge for a well-earned ale at The Old Gate. 🍺
“Can you believe we’ve done this every year?” I laughed.
“Yeah, but it never gets old,” my pal replied, smiling at the views.
Route Difficulty: Medium
Distance: 22.75 km (14.2 miles)
Route Elevation: 459m
Route Time: 5-6 hrs
Start Point: Queens Park, Ormerod Rd, Burnley BB10 3AA
Finish Point: 1-5 Old Gate, Halifax, Hebden Bridge HX7 8JP
Step-by-step guide
Starting from Queen’s Park in Burnley, kick off your walk by strolling down Ridge Avenue. 🚶♀️
Continue along Brunshaw Road and Red Lees Road, then take a left onto Foxstones Lane right before you hit the Kettledrum Inn.
“Are we on the right path?” I asked.
“Yep, Foxstones Lane is next—can’t miss it!” my friend confirmed with a grin.
Follow the lane all the way to The Limmers Lodge House, then turn left down to the bridge and continue onward toward Hurstwood. 🌳
“Almost there!” I said, spotting the bridge ahead.
“Yep, Hurstwood’s just past this—perfect spot for a quick break,” my pal added.
As you enter Hurstwood, stick to the right side of the reservoir and enjoy the peaceful waterside views. 💧
“Check out that reflection on the water!” I pointed out.
“Beautiful, isn’t it? Makes the hike totally worth it,” my friend replied.
Keep following the path until you reach Gorple Road, taking in the surrounding countryside as you go. 🌾
“Looks like Gorple Road is just ahead,” I said.
“Perfect, let’s keep the pace up—we’re making great time!” my pal cheered.
Follow the Penine Bridleway waymarker, veer right, and start the long, steady climb uphill. 🏞️
“This incline looks tough, but the views will be worth it,” I said, catching my breath.
“Absolutely, nothing like reaching the top and seeing the whole valley,” my friend encouraged.
At the summit, you’ll reach Gorple Stones. Take the trail to the right, weaving through the rock formations and descending toward Gorple Upper Reservoir. 🪨
“Wow, these rocks are incredible!” I exclaimed.
“Yeah, it’s like nature’s own sculpture garden,” my pal replied, snapping a photo.
Once you reach the reservoir footpath, turn left and follow the trail along the left side of Gorple Lower Reservoir. 🌊
At the reservoir’s end, take a left onto Widdop Road and make your way toward the Pack Horse Inn.
Keep going along Widdop Road, passing Blake Dean, until you spot the signs pointing left into the woodland of Hardcastle Crags. 🌲
“Almost to the woods now, ready for some shade?” I asked.
“Definitely, can’t wait to explore Hardcastle Crags—it’s gorgeous in here,” my friend replied.
Stroll alongside the Hebden Beck River, pass Gibson Mill, and continue following the trail until you exit Hardcastle Crags. 🌿
“Gibson Mill looks amazing from here!” I said.
“Totally, this river walk makes the hike even more relaxing,” my friend replied.
Follow Midgehole Road, and after a short stroll, you’ll descend into the heart of Hebden Bridge town centre. 🏘️
“Here we are, finally in town!” I exclaimed.
“Perfect spot to grab that well-deserved drink,” my friend added with a smile.
Points of Interest
Hurstwood
Just outside Burnley, Hurstwood is a charming rural village rich in history. 🏡
The hamlet is home to three Grade II listed buildings: Hurstwood Hall, The Great Barn, and Spenser House.
Prominent local families like the Towneleys, Spensers, and Tattersalls shaped the area, with the most famous resident being Edmund Spenser, one of England’s greatest poets, who lived here from 1576 to 1578. ✍️
To the east lies Hurstwood Reservoir, a favorite spot for walkers, forming part of the Penine Bridleway National Trail and the Burnley Way footpath.
“Can you imagine walking these trails centuries ago?” I asked.
“Yeah, but even today, it feels like stepping back in time,” my friend replied.
Gorple Stones
The hills around Gorple and Widdop are full of mysterious rock formations, sparking plenty of speculation and local folklore. 🪨
Many walkers pass through just for the stunning hilltop views, but some rocks here have intriguing links to druids and the occult.
One carving, in particular, resembles the hawk-headed Egyptian god Horus. Researchers believe it may be connected to an old occult group from Bradford called the Temple of Horus.
“Wait, are we standing near an ancient secret?” I whispered, eyeing the carving.
“Looks like it—definitely adds some mystery to the hike!” my friend replied.
Pack Horse Inn
Nestled on Widdop Road, just a short walk from Gorple Lower Reservoir, is the Pack Horse Inn. 🍺
This 17th-century country inn keeps its classic charm while serving homemade dishes.
Set amidst open farmland and far from nearby towns, its peaceful location makes it the perfect stop to relax after a long countryside walk.
“Finally, a proper pit stop!” I said, stretching my legs.
“Couldn’t ask for a better spot to recharge,” my friend replied with a smile.
HARDCASTLE CRAGS & GIBSON MILL
For over two centuries, people have been exploring and working in the stunning Hardcastle Crags and Gibson Mill valley. 🌲
Spanning more than 400 acres with 15 trails to wander, visitors can enjoy streams, ravines, woodlands, wildlife, waterfalls, and rugged rocks along the way.
One of my favorite paths is the classic Mill Walk at Hardcastle Crags.
Gibson Mill, built around 1800, was one of the first mills of the Industrial Revolution. By the early 20th century, it transformed into an entertainment hub, hosting tea dances and roller-skating events.
Even today, Gibson Mill is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike—you can explore the museum or relax with a drink at the charming Mill House Café. ☕
“Imagine people skating here a hundred years ago!” I said.
“Yeah, this place has seen so much history, it’s incredible,” my friend replied.
FAQs
Is Burnley to Hebden bridge a difficult walk?
The walk stays mostly flat, except for the long climb from Hurstwood Reservoir up to Gorple Stones. 🥾
It’s a decent trek overall, taking around 5–6 hours to complete. If you’re not used to long hikes, your legs will definitely feel it the next day!
“Think we can handle the climb?” I asked, looking up at the incline.
“Piece of cake—we’ve got this!” my friend replied with determination.
What should I pack?
Since it’s a long ramble, make sure to bring plenty of water and some snacks to keep your energy up. 💧
Dress for the weather, and remember that the wind can get chilly near the reservoirs, even on sunny days.
“Got enough water for the whole hike?” I asked, checking my pack.
“Yep, and I’ve got snacks too—can’t let our energy drop!” my friend replied.
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