Discovering the Charm of the Huddersfield Broad Canal: Aspley to Turnbridge

The Huddersfield Broad Canal, also known as Sir John Ramsden's Canal, is a hidden gem winding its way through Kirklees, England. This 3.75-mile waterway, adorned with nine wide locks, boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century.

Originally built to serve the thriving textile industry, the canal played a crucial role in transporting coal and finished goods. Nicknamed the "Broad Canal" to distinguish it from its narrower counterpart, the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, it witnessed the industrial revolution unfold along its banks. Today, the canal stands as a testament to the region's industrial heritage, offering a glimpse into the past.

While its industrial days may be behind it, the Huddersfield Broad Canal has found a new purpose as a haven for leisure activities. Whether you're a keen boater, a cyclist seeking a scenic route, or simply someone looking for a peaceful walk, the canal caters to all.

For boaters, the canal offers a tranquil journey, connecting the Calder and Hebble Navigation at Cooper Bridge with the Huddersfield Narrow Canal near Aspley Basin. For those who prefer dry land, the towpath alongside the canal offers a scenic walking or cycling path. The gentle incline makes it suitable for all fitness levels, allowing you to soak in the picturesque surroundings at your own pace.

The Huddersfield Broad Canal is a reminder of the transformative power of historical waterways. From its industrial roots to its current role as a leisure destination, the canal continues to offer a unique and enriching experience for visitors and locals alike. So, next time you're in West Yorkshire, take a step back in time and explore the charm of the Huddersfield Broad Canal.

The pictures shown below were taken while walking the canal on the 27th May 2023, the first set featured were taken on the stretch between the Narrow Canal at Wakefield Road Bridge to the historic Turnbridge. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

Aspley Marina from Wakefield Road Bridge.

The end - beginning of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, a short distance to the west of Wakefield Road Bridge and Aspley Marina.

Underneath Wakefield Road Bridge, Aspley Wharf at the tunnels end.

Aspley Wharf Moorings.

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Todmorden's Unitarian Church: A Testament to a Family's Legacy

Todmorden Unitarian Church, nestled on Honey Hole Road, is more than just a place of worship. It’s a remarkable tribute to John Fielden, a local mill owner, social reformer, and Member of Parliament for Oldham from 1832 to 1847. A prominent member of the local Unitarian movement, Fielden’s legacy was honoured by his three sons, Joshua, John, and Samuel, who funded the church’s construction on land donated by their family.

Building began in 1865, with an unlimited budget that eventually swelled to over £35,000 (more than £3.5 million in 2020). The church was completed in 1869 and opened with a sermon preached by William Gaskell to a congregation of over 800 people.

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A Story of Decline and Rebirth

The church flourished until the early 20th century when, like many other religious institutions in the UK, its congregation began to decline. Maintaining the building became increasingly difficult, leading to the main church's closure in 1987. Services were moved to the nearby lodge at the entrance to the grounds, but even these ceased in 1992, and the church was closed completely.

Left abandoned, the building fell into decay and was a target for vandals. However, in 1994, the Historic Chapels Trust stepped in, undertaking a massive restoration project that cost over £1 million. Their efforts saved this architectural gem.

The church was granted Grade I listed status on November 22, 1966, while the lodge at the entrance received Grade II listed status on February 22, 1984.

These photos, taken on July 11, 2020, capture the church's unique character and the beautiful grounds surrounding it. It's a true testament to the power of preservation and the enduring legacy of a family dedicated to their community.

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This picture taken from the Rochdale Canal, looking across the Golden Lion Pub, shows the Churches Spire. Notice the guitarist sat on the bench.

The Lodge, stands at the entrance to the church grounds. This was used for services after the main building closed. I believe it is now a private residence.

This lamp post can be found on the main driveway, the path to the right leads through the woodland circling the eastern side of the church.

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Whispers of the Past: Discovering the Hidden Gem of Oxygrainz Clough

Amongst the heather-clad moors of Rishworth, on the edges of West Yorkshire, lies a hidden gem: Oxygrainz Clough and Bridge. This charming spot offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike, combining stunning scenery with intriguing remnants of the past.

As you approach the clough, the ancient packhorse bridge, believed to date back to the 16th or 17th century, stands proudly, a silent witness to centuries of travellers and goods traversing the moors. Imagine weary traders leading laden horses across its weathered stones, carrying essential supplies between villages and markets. The historic bridge was replaced when the Oldham Turnpike was constructed a few metres to the north, allowing for larger goods traffic to cross between Lancashire and Yorkshire.

The clough itself unfolds like a verdant secret garden. A babbling brook meanders through moss-covered stones, whispering tales of a bygone era. Lush greenery carpets the banks, offering a vibrant contrast to the heather-dominated moors above. Sunbeams dance through the leaves, creating a magical, dappled light on the forest floor.

Your exploration doesn't have to end here. Rishworth Moor itself beckons with further adventures. Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, marvel at the ancient standing stones steeped in myth and legend, or visit the historic village of Rishworth with its charming pubs and traditional cottages.

The pictures below show the area around both bridges and the clough. They were taken in December 2020 with a Nikon d3300. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The A672 Oldham Turnpike connects Oldham with Ripponden, the bridge replaced the much smaller Oxygrainz Bridge below which was once the packhorse route connecting the 2 towns.

Old and new, the original packhorse bridge, and the replacement turnpike bridge beyond.

Oxygrainz Clough flowing under the packhorse bridge and down Rishworth Moor, eventually reaching Booth Wood Reservoir.

The turnpike bridge viewed from the north side looking south. The M62 motorway is just beyond the hills peak.

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Hawksclough Bridge: A Walk Through Myth and History

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Calder Valley, in the charming Yorkshire village of Mytholmroyd, lies the Grade II listed Hawksclough Bridge. This seemingly unassuming structure, crafted from the warm embrace of local sandstone, is more than just a passage over the River Calder. It's a bridge woven with myth, whispered secrets, and the echoes of a bygone era.

As you stand upon its weathered stones, the gentle gurgle of the water below serenades you, transporting you back in time. Legend has it that the bridge was built by the devil himself, enticed by a wager with a local builder. The deal? The bridge's completion within a night was in exchange for the builder's soul. But as the rooster crowed, signalling the dawn, the bridge remained unfinished, just one stone short. The devil, cheated of his prize, vanished in a puff of brimstone, leaving behind the incomplete bridge as a testament to his trickery.

While the truth behind the bridge's construction is likely less fantastical, the myth adds a touch of magic to its history. It's a reminder that even the most ordinary structures can hold extraordinary stories, waiting to be unravelled by the curious mind.

But Hawksclough Bridge is more than just a relic of the past. It's a vibrant part of the Mytholmroyd community. Children clamber along its edges. Artists capture its rustic beauty in their paintings, and photographers find endless inspiration in its weathered nooks and crannies.

Below are a set of pictures taken at the bridge with a Nikon d3300 in July 2024, Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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The Grandeur of Todmorden Town Hall's Frontage.

As you approach Todmorden, nestled amidst the Pennine Hills, a majestic sight unfolds: the imposing frontage of the town hall. More than just a grand building, it's a symbol of civic pride, rich history, and a vibrant present.

The frontage, spanning an impressive 53 feet, is a visual delight. Constructed in the Italianate style, it boasts a symmetrical design with towering columns, arched windows, and intricate stonework. The town hall opened on the 3rd April 1875, at a cost of £54,000. The original plans for the hall were conceived a couple of decades earlier, when architect James Green was charged with building a town hall for the town of Todmorden. Legal and financial problems saw this work grind to a halt by the mid-1860s. The Fielden family, a local owner of many of the town's cotton mills, purchased the site and took financial responsibility for completing the hall. 

Look closer at the frontage, and you'll discover the symbolic language whispered in the stone. The pediment features two allegorical figures, representing Lancashire and Yorkshire, united by industry and prosperity. The friezes below depict scenes of cotton spinning and engineering, reflecting the town's heritage. The hall was built atop Walsden Water, the historic boundary of Lancashire and Yorkshire, to unite the town populace. 

The frontage isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it's a window into the town's soul. Imagine grand balls held in the opulent ballroom, the echo of justice served in the former magistrate's court, and the countless community events that have brought laughter and life to these walls. Every scratch, every detail, whispers untold stories of the people who have walked these steps and made Todmorden what it is today.

The pictures were taken on the 6th January 2024 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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A Winter Ascent to Stoodley Pike

Towering over the Calder Valley, Stoodley Pike is more than just a hill overlooking the town of Todmorden, West Yorkshire. It's a monument, a beacon, a challenge, and a gateway to breathtaking panoramas. I recently embarked on my own Stoodley Pike adventure, and let me tell you, it was an experience of stunning vistas.

There are several routes to the summit, each offering its own unique charm. I opted for the Shaw Wood Road trail, starting from the A646 Burnley Road. The trail leaves Burnley Road almost immediately, crossing over the Rochdale Canal alongside Lock No. 15 Shawplains. The road winds through woodlands before reaching a housing estate at Lee Bottom Road, which runs eastward, offering glimpses of the imposing Pike as you ascend. The road steadily gains elevation, so be prepared for a good workout.

After conquering the final incline, the reward arrives. The 39-step spiral staircase beckons, leading you up another 40 feet to the balcony of the monument. A torch is highly recommended, as the narrow passage is often plunged in darkness, despite a grill that is meant to offer a light source.

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Views for Days

The views from the top are nothing short of magnificent. The hill, at a height of 1,300 feet, shows rolling fields in every direction, dotted with villages, reservoirs, and the distant Pennine peaks. On a clear day, you can even see Manchester and the Irish Sea! Take a deep breath, soak it all in, and let the sense of accomplishment wash over you.

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A Monument to History

Stoodley Pike is steeped in history, dating back to the Iron Age. Explore the monument's intriguing inscriptions and weathered stones, which whisper tales of the past. The original monument was built to commemorate the Napoleonic Wars and then rebuilt to remember the Crimean War.

Above the north-facing door, a faded inscription tells the story of the monument's creation and dramatic rebuilding:

STOODLEY PIKE A BEACON MONUMENT ERECTED BY PUBLIC SUBSCRIPTION COMMENCED IN 1814 TO COMMEMORATE THE SURRENDER OF PARIS TO THE ALLIES AND FINISHED AFTER THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO WHEN PEACE WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1815. BY A STRANGE COINCIDENCE THE PIKE FELL ON THE DAY THE RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR LEFT LONDON BEFORE THE DECLARATION OF WAR WITH RUSSIA IN 1854. WAS REBUILT WHEN PEACE WAS RESTORED IN 1856. RESTORED AND LIGHTNING CONDUCTOR FIXED IN 1889.

This adventure to Stoodley Pike was a chilly one, but the light dusting of snow made the landscape even more beautiful. These pictures were taken on November 19, 2016, and really capture the unique atmosphere of the hike. It's a journey I won't soon forget.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The path up to Stoodley Pike, the monument visible at the summit.

I think the snow clinging to the side of the structure gives the monument a completely different feel to its usual look.

The Calder Valley and beyond towards Lancashire, taken from the base of the monument.

Looking west away from the monument, I have always liked this picture as it's gives the impression the clouds will shortly fall over the edge of the hill.

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A Timeless Walk on the Rochdale Canal

There's something about a vintage photograph that adds a layer of timelessness, and when applied to the landscape of the Rochdale Canal, it feels like a journey back in time. On a crisp November day in 2013, I took a walk along the stretch between Mytholmroyd and Hebden Bridge, armed with a Samsung Galaxy tablet. The images I captured, edited to have a sepia-toned, aged look, seem to echo the long and storied history of this waterway.

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A Glimpse into the Past

This section of the canal is particularly beautiful, winding through the heart of the Calder Valley. The path is often muddy and strewn with autumn leaves, and the trees, stripped bare of their foliage, reveal the skeletal beauty of the landscape. As the path meanders, you pass under stone bridges, their arches a constant reminder of the 18th-century engineering that created this vital transport link. These bridges, with their worn brickwork and mossy undersides, look as though they have stood for centuries, watching the world change around them. The canal itself is a mirror, reflecting the grey sky and the surrounding hills. Lock 7, with its white-painted lock gates, stands out against the muted tones of the landscape, a functional and artistic focal point. You can almost imagine the sound of the locks creaking open and the rush of water as barges passed through, a scene that played out for generations.

Where Nature and Industry Meet

As you continue towards Hebden Bridge, the canal becomes more populated with boats. Moored narrowboats, their names and histories hidden from view, float peacefully on the water, adding a touch of colour to the otherwise monochromatic landscape. The scene, captured from a higher vantage point, shows the canal snaking through the trees, a ribbon of water connecting the villages of the valley. It's a striking image of how nature and human-made industry have coexisted for over two centuries.

A Photographic Journey

Using a tablet to create these vintage-style photos felt like a fascinating experiment. The editing process transformed the modern digital images into something that felt like a glimpse into a bygone era. It highlighted the enduring beauty of the Rochdale Canal, showing that while technology and life move on, some places retain a timeless quality that transcends the decades.

This walk from Mytholmroyd to Hebden Bridge isn't just a physical journey but a historical one, too. It’s a chance to see the landscape through a different lens and appreciate the stories etched into every stone, every lock, and every reflection on the water.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Located a short distance from where Burnley Road crosses the canal, Lock 7 Broad Bottom is a Grade II listed structure. It was granted this status on June 21, 1984, and is situated near the former site of Walkley Clogs.

A classic shot of the peaceful Mayroyd Moorings in Hebden Bridge, taken from the historic Station Road Bridge overlooking the canal.

A view of the Broad Bottom Lane Bridge from Lock 7 in Mytholmroyd, a tranquil spot on the Rochdale Canal.

Bridge 12, Westfield Terrace Bridge, the canal had been drained for a stretch here, I can not remember why and for how far it stretched.

Mayroyd Bridge near the moorings at Hebden Bridge.

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