9k Run Calderdale: Scenic Loop to Stoodley Pike

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 9.4km circuit captures the essence of Calderdale running, offering a challenging yet rewarding climb from the valley floor up to one of West Yorkshire’s most famous landmarks. Starting on the flat towpath of the Rochdale Canal, the route quickly transitions into a steady ascent through the hamlet of Horsehold. With 268m of elevation gain, you’ll tackle a mix of paved lanes and rugged trails that can be muddy after a Pennine downpour. The effort is rewarded at the summit of Stoodley Pike, where you can catch your breath before a sweeping, fast descent via Old Chamber back into the heart of Hebden Bridge.

The centerpiece of this run is the Stoodley Pike Monument, a 121-foot stone structure built in 1856 to commemorate the defeat of Napoleon and the end of the Crimean War. As you navigate these ancient packhorse bays and moorland tracks, you are running through the "Pennine Centre," an area steeped in textile history and creative spirit. Hebden Bridge itself is famously nestled at the confluence of the River Hebden and the River Calder, and this route provides a bird's-eye view of how the town clings to the steep valley sides, making it a favorite training ground for local fell runners and outdoor enthusiasts.