Dixon Scar Woods: A Hidden Gem in the Calder Valley

Nestled near the historic town of Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, lies Dixon Scar Woods, affectionately known to locals as "Dixy Woods." This unassuming woodland, a sliver of green clinging to the steep hillside, offers a surprising escape into nature within a bustling industrial valley. Its unique topography, stretching from the tranquil banks of the River Calder at Hollins Mill up towards the solemn heights of Sowerby Bridge Cemetery, creates a diverse habitat and a captivating walking experience.

The woods are a testament to the region's industrial past, with the mainline railway slicing through its heart via the evocative Dixy Tunnel (or Cemetery Tunnel, as it's also known). This juxtaposition of nature and infrastructure adds a layer of historical intrigue to the landscape. Below, the valley floor reveals a patchwork of fields, the manicured expanse of Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club, and the ever-flowing River Calder, all overlooked by the verdant embrace of the woodland.

Exploring Dixy Woods reveals a network of paths, weaving through a tapestry of trees that change with the seasons. On September 7th, 2017, using a Nikon D3300, I embarked on a journey that began at the bridge spanning the River Calder at Hollins Mill. The path, initially hugging the river's edge, offered glimpses of the water's gentle flow and the valley's industrial heritage.

The lower reaches of the woods are characterized by a mix of mature deciduous trees, likely including oak, ash, and sycamore, providing a shaded canopy. The undergrowth, though perhaps dense in places, offered glimpses of wildflowers and the subtle signs of wildlife. The air, thick with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves, carried the distant rumble of trains echoing through the tunnel.

As the path progressed, it led towards Tenterfields Business Park, a modern development marking the transition between Sowerby Bridge and Luddenden Foot. This section of the walk offered a contrast between the natural beauty of the woods and the more structured environment of the industrial park.

The journey culminated at Monkey Tunnel, a pedestrian passage that facilitates access from Tenterfields Bridge up towards the village of Boulderclough. This tunnel, a portal connecting different elevations and communities, symbolizes the way Dixy Woods acts as a bridge between landscapes and histories.

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Wood Lane Railway Bridge.

Hollins Mill Weir, this was damaged in the 2015 Calder Valley Boxing Day floods.

The tunnel, which can be found near Tenterfields Business Park is known locally as Monkey Tunnel.

Another of the damaged Hollins Mill Weir.

Footbridge over the River calder at Hollins Mill.

Footbridge over the River Calder at Tenterfields.

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Broad Street Plaza: A Hub of Halifax Entertainment (and More!)

Broad Street Plaza, a modern mixed-use development, has become a cornerstone of Halifax's leisure scene since its grand opening in 2012. After years of planning by the local authority, this former car park site has been transformed into a vibrant hub, offering something for everyone.

While not all units are currently occupied, the plaza boasts a diverse range of amenities, making it a popular destination for a night out, a workout, or even a staycation. For film buffs, Vue Cinemas provides a state-of-the-art cinematic experience, while fitness enthusiasts can break a sweat at Pure Gym.

Need a place to stay? The Premier Inn offers convenient accommodation right in the heart of the action. And for those seeking healthcare services, an NHS health centre is also located within the complex.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice with a variety of dining options. From the hearty grills at Beefeater and the American classics at Frankie & Benny's and TGI Fridays, to the spicy delights of Nando's and the Italian flavours of Pizza Express, there's a restaurant to satisfy every craving. And of course, no town centre is complete without a Wetherspoons – The Percy Shaw, named after the Halifax inventor of cat's eyes, offers a friendly local pub atmosphere.

These photos, captured on May 27th, 2018, with my trusty Nikon D3300, showcase the plaza in its bustling glory. It's a testament to the town's ongoing development and a great place to spend an evening. Next time you're in Halifax, be sure to check it out!

Update 6th May 2025, a number of the businesses that occupied the plaza have since closed, Wetherspoons disposing of the Percy Shaw which now has new owners, so if your planning to visit you may want to check which restaurants are still trading. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography Store on Zazzle.

The pictures also feature in the YouTube video below,

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Holme & Cliviger: Gorge, Church, and Landscape

On a crisp April day in 2016, the 23rd to be precise, my trusty Nikon D3300 and I set out to explore the rugged beauty surrounding Holme and Cliviger. My primary mission? To finally capture the stoic grandeur of St. John the Divine, a landmark I'd admired countless times in passing. Little did I know, the day held far more treasures than just a church portrait. The walk unfolded into a delightful adventure, revealing the hidden wonders of the landscape: the shadowy maw of Holme Tunnel, the elegant span of Buckley Bridges, and a tapestry of other captivating scenes.

Holme Tunnel itself, a subterranean passage slicing beneath the dramatic Thieveley Scout, part of the Cliviger Gorge, proved a highlight. This 265-yard marvel, born in 1849, whispered tales of a bygone era. I learned that it had recently emerged from a transformative £11.5 million refurbishment, shedding its slow, 20mph crawl for the exhilarating rush of 75mph. A testament to engineering prowess, it stood as a powerful reminder of the region's enduring spirit.

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Buckley Bridge.

The Copy Pit Railway Line traverses the landscape via Buckley Bridge, a primary structure. Adjacent, to the west, a secondary bridge spans the road, its function less immediately apparent. Oral tradition suggests this smaller bridge was integral to the original Holme Railway Station approach, a detail that hints at a more complex history than the present-day scene reveals.

Below are a couple of views taken from near the top of Cliviger Gorge looking towrads Todmorden with Stoodley Pike Visible in the distance and across the valley towards the Church of St John the Devine.

The Church of St John the Devine.

Consecrated between 1788 and 1794, this active Anglican church, a Grade II listed landmark in the Blackburn diocese, gazes down upon the village like a silent guardian. But it's more than just stones and mortar; it's a place where stories reside. General Sir James Yorke Scarlett, a name etched in Crimean War history for his daring charge, found his final peace here. The sheer scale of his funeral, with over 60,000 people lining the streets, speaks volumes about the man, and the impact of his life.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio's on Photo4Me and ClickAsnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.