Todmorden: Where History Meets the Hills

Todmorden, a town steeped in history and surrounded by the stunning Pennine landscape, offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. On a chilly January morning, I ventured out to explore a couple of its most iconic spots, and the crisp, clear air only added to the atmosphere.

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Water Street: A Cobbled Canvas

My journey began on Water Street, a quiet cobbled lane that seems to have a story to tell with every stone. The street is lined with historic buildings, their stone facades and large windows hinting at a past life of industry and community. With the morning sky a deep blue and the lamplight just beginning to fade, the street felt like a movie set—a perfect moment of stillness before the town awoke. The spire of a church in the distance and a sliver of the moon overhead completed the picture, a reminder of the timeless beauty that can be found in everyday places.

The Golden Lion: A Timeless Landmark

Just a stone's throw from Water Street, I found The Golden Lion. A classic pub that stands as a testament to Todmorden's rich heritage. Its weathered stone and distinctive signage beckon you in, promising warmth and good cheer. Even from the outside, the pub’s character is undeniable. The contrast between the rough stone of the building and the bright, moss-covered porch tells a story of years gone by. The Golden Lion isn't just a pub; it's a piece of Todmorden's soul, a place where people have gathered for generations.

Todmorden is a town that invites you to slow down and notice the details. From the historic cobbles of Water Street to the timeless appeal of The Golden Lion, every corner holds a piece of its past, waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a quiet place to wander, Todmorden is a destination that truly delivers.

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An Urban Escape on the Rochdale Canal

The Rochdale Canal offers a peaceful, flat, and easy walk, even through the urban sprawl of Sowerby Bridge. This 1-mile stretch from Rose Grove Bridge (3) to Tower Hill Bridge (1A) is a perfect escape, taking you through some of the canal's most interesting features.

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From Rose Grove to the Tunnel

Our journey begins at Rose Grove Bridge, a classic stone-arched bridge that feels a world away from the town's bustle. The path is a tranquil, tree-lined track with the canal running alongside. The water here is calm, reflecting the trees and sky beautifully, creating a sense of peace. As you walk, you'll hear the gentle sounds of nature and the lapping of water, a calming soundtrack for your stroll.

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The Hollins Tunnel

After a short walk, the path leads to the Hollins Tunnel, also known as the Cemetery Tunnel. This is an incredible sight, with its moss-covered stone archway providing a dramatic entrance. The tunnel is a feat of engineering, and a walk through it feels like stepping back in time. The reflection of the tunnel's mouth on the still water inside is a remarkable sight, highlighting the symmetry and craftsmanship of its construction.

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The Final Stretch

Once you emerge from the tunnel, the canal curves towards Sowerby Bridge. The path becomes more open, offering glimpses of the town's historic buildings and the impressive hillside landscape. You'll pass under the Co-Op Bridge, an old railway bridge with a modern twist, and finally, arrive at Tower Hill Bridge (1A).

This final section is especially interesting as it marks a point of historical change. The Rochdale Canal, once a bustling commercial waterway, was infilled here in 1952. The waterway was effectively cut off at Tower Hill Bridge, and this part of the canal now connects to the Tuel Lane Tunnel, which opened as part of the canal's restoration. This restoration and reconnection of the Rochdale Canal have allowed this scenic path to be enjoyed by walkers and nature lovers once again.

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These two pictures show both sides of Bridge 3 High Royd.

These two pictures show the stretch of Canal towpath between Rose Grove, High Royd Bridge and Hollins Tunnel.

Inside Hollins Tunnel.

Hollins Tunnel entrance on the Sowerby Bridge side.

The canal curbing towards Sowerby Bridge, the Co-Op bridge visible crossing over the canal. The bridge provides access to Hollins Mill Lane from the Industrial Road area of Sowerby Bridge, but does not give any access to the canal.

The canal underneath Bridge 1A. In 1952 the canal was infilled from just beyond the arch, the bridge was also known as Tuel Lane Bridge until the road that crossed over it was rerouted and then it was changed to Tower Hill Bridge. The tower block is Ladstone Towers, built when large areas of low quality housing around the area was demolished in the mid 1960's.

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Walking the Ghost Tracks: The Pickle Bridge Line

The Pickle Bridge Railway, a line that once linked Bradford and Huddersfield, now exists mostly as a series of ghosts in the West Yorkshire landscape. The line, which operated from 1881 to 1952, was a casualty of a common problem in the area: subsidence. While it's been closed for over 70 years, a walk along its former route reveals fascinating glimpses of its past life.

From Clifton to Bailiff Bridge

My first walk along the route began at the former site of the Clifton Road Viaduct. This three-arch viaduct, which led directly into Clifton Road Station, is no longer standing. The line then crossed the A644 Wakefield Road and the River Calder before joining the Caldervale Line. Today, the former trackbed is often a narrow, overgrown trail.

Further along the path, you come across the Thornhills Viaduct, a magnificent five-arch structure that still stands today. The sheer scale of the viaduct, seen from Thornhills Beck Lane below, is a powerful reminder of the engineering feat required to build this line. The path then continues, leading to an abandoned railway bridge stranded in the middle of a field between the viaduct and Birkhouse Road. This isolated structure, weathered and partially hidden by thick overgrowth, is a poignant symbol of the line's fate. The final stretch of this particular walk took me toward Bailiff Bridge. Here, the former railway crossing and the Birkhouse Road Bridge are still visible, marking the line's path through the village. These structures, now simply part of the local scenery, are a testament to the fact that even after being abandoned, the railway still leaves its mark on the land.

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The remains of Clifton Road Viaduct, the station occupied a spot along the wall pictured with the dirt track to the left the main access road.

Former track bed pictured between the remains of Clifton Road Viaduct and Thornhills Beck Viaduct.

The top of Thornhills Beck Viaduct, this was the southern side and was gated off as can be seen preventing access any further.

Thornhills Beck Viaduct, opened up I think it would make an interesting footpath - cycleway.

Another of Thornhills Beck Viaduct

These last 2 show an abandoned bridge in the middle of a low cutting in what seemed to have become a farmers field. Looking at the surrounding land and historic maps I can see no reason for it's existence as their were alternative crossings over the railway nearby in both directions.

The second set of pictures were taken on the 25th May 2014, starting at the bridge above they show the remains of the line up to the end of Red Lion (Wyke) Viaduct.

The Pickle Bridge line crossing over Birkhouse Lane, Bailiff Bridge

The line's remains at Bailiff Bridge, the town's former station used to occupy a spot to the right of the picture behind the trees.

All that remains of the bridge that crossed Lower Wyke Lane, Houses now occupy the former trackbed to the left of the picture.

The bridge that crossed over Bradford Road has been removed, leaving only the abutments as a reminder the railway passed here.

The Red Lion or Wyke Viaduct crossing over a small access lane off Bradford Road.

The top of Wyke - Red Lion Viaduct, I don't remember climbing up to the top but I must have as the picture here proves I did. The end of the viaduct was probably just beyond the trees,

Wyke - Red Lion Viaduct. The crossing suffered badly from subsidence resulting in a much reduced speed limit during its years of operation. The situation was so bad that by the 1980's permission was sought to demolish part of the Grade II listed Viaduct.

This partially overgrown bridge stands to the northern end of the demolished part of Wyke - Red Lion Viaduct, I'm not sure if it was separate or part of that structure.

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Exploring the Unseen Heptonstall: A Walk Through History and Charm

Perched high above the Calder Valley, the ancient village of Heptonstall is a place of profound history and quiet beauty. While many visitors flock to its famous landmarks—the Ruined Church and its replacement—this collection of photographs, taken on a clear July day in 2020, offers a different perspective, focusing on the hidden corners and everyday charm of this historic settlement.

A Glimpse into Village Life

Heptonstall is not just a tourist destination; it is a living, breathing village of approximately 1,400 people. Its history is deeply rooted in the textile industry, particularly hand-loom weaving, a tradition that shaped the village’s unique architecture. The pictures capture this character beautifully, from the cobbled streets of Towngate to the sturdy stone houses that have stood for centuries.

One image shows a classic red telephone box, a vibrant splash of colour against the backdrop of a well-kept garden. This iconic symbol of British life, now a rare sight, feels perfectly at home in Heptonstall's timeless setting. Another shot frames a charming row of buildings on Towngate, including the village's post office, with its traditional signage and hanging baskets, a testament to the community spirit that keeps this place alive.

The Stories in the Stone

The houses themselves tell stories. One particularly grand building on Towngate, with its large windows and elegant stonework, stands out as a former high-status dwelling, perhaps a merchant's house from the village's prosperous past. Another photograph shows the former grammar school, now the Heptonstall Museum, its plain, solid facade a symbol of the importance of education in this community. The simple yet striking stonework of these buildings highlights the craftsmanship that went into their construction.

The village's narrow, winding streets feel like a journey back in time, a feeling enhanced by the lack of modern clutter. Heptonstall has featured in a number of TV shows, including the recent Shane Meadows drama The Gallows Pole, a story about the Cragg Vale Coiners. It is a fitting location for such a tale, as the leader of the coiners, "King" David Hartley, is buried in the village churchyard—a grim piece of history that adds another layer to the village's already-rich tapestry.

These photographs reveal the quieter side of Heptonstall, the side that locals and long-time visitors know well. They show a village that has adapted to modern life without losing its soul. Heptonstall remains a favorite spot for hikers and history buffs, a place where every cobbled street and every stone wall has a tale to tell. It is a village that lives up to its reputation as a stunning, historic gem in the heart of the Calder Valley.

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The phone box found towards the lower end of Hetonstall is now I am told used as a library by the local community.

Towngate is the main route through the centre of the village.

The village's post office.

34 Towngate.

41A Towngate. The passge to the right leads to the former grammar school and museum and runs past the churchyard.

The grammar school and museum buildings, the fence to the right surrounds the lower part of the churchyard.

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A British Icon in a Winter Setting: The Morris Minor 1000

On a frosty December day in 2022, a charming piece of British motoring history was spotted, standing out brightly against the muted, wintery landscape of Bradford. A classic 1967 Morris Minor 1000, its vibrant red paint dusted with frost, was parked outside St. John the Evangelist Church on Bierley Lane, its timeless design a stark and beautiful contrast to the modern cars around it.

A Car of the People

The Morris Minor 1000 is a true British icon. It was in production for a remarkable 15 years, from 1956 to 1971, during which time an astonishing 850,000 models were built. The car was beloved for its simple, sturdy design and its reliable performance, becoming a staple of British roads and a symbol of post-war ingenuity. The photographs capture the essence of this beloved vehicle, from its distinctive curved silhouette to its compact size. The frost on the windscreen and the light snow on the pavement add a touch of nostalgic, seasonal magic to the scene.

A Moment in Time

The pictures, taken with a Nikon D3300, show the car from different angles, highlighting its unique features. From the front, its rounded headlights and classic chrome grille are prominent, while the side-view shot shows its smooth, aerodynamic lines and the distinctive hubcaps. The car's license plate, a vintage "RYU 948E," confirms its 1967 model year, a detail that adds to its historical authenticity.

The backdrop of the church and its graveyard adds a sense of place and permanence to the photographs. The car, a temporary visitor in this historic setting, creates a fascinating juxtaposition between the transient nature of everyday life and the enduring presence of architectural heritage.

The Morris Minor 1000 is more than just a car; it's a cultural artifact. It represents a simpler time and a distinct period in British manufacturing. To see one in such a pristine condition, still on the roads and clearly cherished by its owner, is a delight. It’s a testament to a design that has transcended time, continuing to turn heads and spark memories, even on the coldest of winter days.

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Asquith Bottom Mill: A Sowerby Bridge Survivor

The former Asquith Bottom Mill in Sowerby Bridge stands as a powerful testament to the region's industrial past, a hulking monument of brick and stone that has adapted to the changing times. These images, taken in April 2017, capture the mill complex in its current state as a mixed-use industrial estate, a fascinating blend of old and new.

A Legacy of Industry

Asquith Bottom Mill has a rich history, serving various purposes over the years, from a carpet mill to a wire and woollen mill. It was originally built by the Edlestons family, a name that many locals will recall with fondness. For those who grew up in the area during the 1980s, the sight of a vibrant red neon sign bearing the Edlestons name across the roof is a cherished memory, a beacon of a bygone era that has sadly since been removed. The mill's closure in the late 1980s and early 1990s marked the end of a significant chapter for the area.

The photographs from 2017 reveal the sheer scale and character of the mill. The wide-angle shot shows the full facade of the main building, its rows of large, multi-paned windows a classic feature of mill architecture. The lower buildings in the foreground, with cars parked alongside, indicate the complex's modern function, a bustling hub for various businesses.

A Walk Through Time

Walking through the mill complex is like stepping into a living museum. One of the images captures a narrow ginnel or alleyway that runs between two buildings, with an overhead passageway connecting them. This architectural feature, common in industrial complexes of this size, speaks to a time when goods and people needed to move efficiently between different parts of the mill.

The details are what truly tell the story. A photograph of the building's exterior, shot at an upward angle, highlights the patina of age on the stone and the faded, closed-off windows, some of which still have their original frames. Another striking image, a black and white shot with a splash of red, focuses on a set of external stairs. These "red stairs," a pop of colour against the otherwise monochrome backdrop of the brickwork, lead up the side of one of the buildings, a dramatic and eye-catching feature that evokes a sense of both the mill's grand past and its slow, inevitable decline.

Asquith Bottom Mill, much like the surrounding landscape of Sowerby Bridge, is a symbol of resilience. It is a place that has not been forgotten but has been given a new purpose, a place where the echoes of industrial looms and the footsteps of mill workers still linger, even as new businesses thrive within its walls. These photographs serve as a poignant reminder of its past and a celebration of its enduring legacy.

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A vibrant memory from the mill's past stands in stark contrast to its present-day industrial hustle. Where the cars now sit parked in front of the mill, there once was a lush bowling green, a green oasis across the River Ryburn. The most striking change, however, was the mill's rooftop. For years, the building was crowned with a brilliant red neon sign that proudly displayed the W.M. Edlestons name—a familiar, glowing landmark that lit up the Sowerby Bridge skyline.

Once, goods and materials were hoisted to and from these doorways, but now, a lone hoist support juts out from the old brickwork, a silent reminder of the mill’s industrious past.

This picture was taken from the Norland hillside towards the back of the building. I don't imagine other than for safety checks that fire escape has been used in many years.

 

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