The Walks

Cat Holes

Distance : 2.5 miles
Time : 1.5 hours
Moderate

Explore a variety of terrains along the canal, past mills and over hills with one short uphill climb.

Detailed History Notes

As well as the main Map Leaflet or GPX and MPA digital files (below), you can also download a fuller set of history notes for this route. These were researched and supplied by Marsden History Group for the original version of this walk, first published in 2012.

Click here to download > “Cat Holes detailed history notes

Deer Hill

Distance : 6.5 miles
Time : 3 hours
Difficult

Visit Deer Hill reservoir and explore the high ground to the east of Marsden, with far-reaching views across Huddersfield and the surrounding countryside.

Intake Head

Distance : 4 miles
Time : 2 hours
Moderate

Discover historic farms, the famous Huddersfield Narrow Canal tunnel and the Wessenden Valley, along with far-reaching views of the Colne Valley.

Mesolithic March Hill

Distance : 6.5 miles
Time : 3 hours hours
Difficult

Hike up through outlying hamlets at the head of the Colne Valley, to reach March Hill, one of the highest points around, with stunning views back down the Valley. The hill was used by our Mesolithic hunter-gatherer forebears as a flint-knapping spot and hunting camp. Walk in the footsteps of the pack horses and their drivers as you descend the pack horse road on your return to Marsden.

This walk crosses exposed, open moorland. Make sure you wear suitable footwear, and bring weatherproof clothing.

Piper Holes

Distance : 3 miles
Time : 1.5 hours hours
Moderate

A lovely walk along the canal and through lush farmland towards the source of the River Colne.

Swellands

Distance : 6.5 miles
Time : 3 hours
Difficult

Discover the scenic Wessenden valley, ancient woodlands and deep upland reservoirs.

The Marsden Film & TV Trail

Distance : 4 miles
Time : hours
Easy

A fascinating 4 mile* circular walk around the village of Marsden in West Yorkshire, that uncovers some of the locations made famous by film and television companies over the last few decades.