Stoodley Pike Monument stands tall as the most iconic landmark in the Upper Calder Valley skyline, rising proudly above the Pennine landscape and visible from miles away. 🌄
Standing proudly above Todmorden and Hebden Bridge, the monument crowns the summit of Stoodley Pike hill and remains one of West Yorkshire’s most loved walking spots. 🌄 Every year, crowds of walkers head out to reach it. “Ready for the climb?” one might say with a grin. The best part? The monument can only be reached on foot, with several scenic trails starting from the nearby towns of Todmorden, Hebden Bridge, and Mytholmroyd.
How high is Stoodley Pike?
Stoodley Pike is a 400 metre hill in the South Pennines of West Yorkshire, and right on its summit stands the Stoodley Pike Monument rising another 37 metres high. 🌄
The monument dominates the skyline and can be seen from miles away. In fact, on a clear day, you might even spot it from Halifax or Bradford. “Can you see it from there?” someone asks, and the answer is often yes.
Why was Stoodley Pike Monument Built?
Designed in 1854 by local architect James Green, the Stoodley Pike Monument was completed in 1856 to celebrate the peace declared after the Crimean War. 🌄
Many walkers do not realize that another monument once stood on the summit of Stoodley Pike long before the one we see today. “Wait, there was an older one?” Yes, and its story is just as fascinating. 🌄
The first structure began in 1814 to celebrate the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte and the surrender of Paris. It was completed in 1815 after the Battle of Waterloo, marking the end of the Napoleonic Wars.
The monument stood proudly on the summit for nearly 40 years. Sadly, in 1854 it collapsed after a lightning strike and many years of harsh weather.
Can you go inside Stoodley Pike?
Yes! Stoodley Pike Monument is open to visitors and features a 39 step spiral staircase leading to the top, where breathtaking moorland views await. 🌄 “Ready to climb and see the view?”
Please stay careful during the climb, as the staircase is narrow and the inside can be quite dark because the monument has no windows. For extra safety, the National Trail recommends bringing a torch. 🌄
But before enjoying the views from the top of Stoodley Pike, you will need to lace up your walking boots. The monument can only be reached on foot, which makes the journey part of the adventure. “Ready to start the walk?”
Stoodley Pike Walk (From Hebden Bridge) – Route Info
Route Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Distance: 10km (6 miles)
Route Time: 2-3 hours
Start and Finish Point: Hebden Bridge, HX7 6AA
With several routes to pick from, our top choice has always been the circular trek starting and ending in Hebden Bridge. 🌿
It’s a stunning countryside trail, and finishing back in Hebden Bridge lets you reward yourself with a tasty meal in the town centre.
Hebden Bridge was the first town to join the “Walkers are Welcome” program, making the Stoodley Pike circular route one of the key trails promoted by the scheme.
The “Walkers are Welcome” initiative began in 2007 to encourage towns to be as friendly and welcoming to walkers as possible. 🌿
One key goal is to keep public footpaths well maintained and clearly signposted, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding your way on this trek.
For a full step by step guide of the trail, you can check out the National Trail PDF here.
FAQs
How long is the Stoodley Pike walk?
Depending on your walking pace and how long you linger at the top of Stoodley Pike, this circular walk typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete. 🌄
How difficult is the Stoodley Pike walk?
At just 10 kilometres (6 miles), the Stoodley Pike walk from Hebden Bridge is a manageable trek that still gives you a solid workout. 🌿
The climb up Stoodley Pike can be a bit challenging for those not used to walking, but it’s completely achievable for most people without any real trouble.
Who owns Stoodly Pike?
Located on Langfield Common, a designated Special Conservation Area (SCA), Stoodley Pike is managed and cared for by Calderdale Council. 🌿
Where to park for Stoodley Pike?
If you’re doing the Stoodley Pike hike from Hebden Bridge, just park in the village centre. 🌿 Some of the main car parks in town include:
| Car Park | Address |
|---|---|
|
St. Pol Square Car Park |
St. Pol Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8EX |
|
Garden Street Car Park |
Garden St, Hebden Bridge HX7 8AQ |
|
Station Rd Car Park |
Station Rd, Hebden Bridge HX7 8AU |
|
Market Place Car Park |
4 St George’s St, Hebden Bridge HX7 7BX |
Comment (0)