The South Pennines offer plenty of choice when it comes to activities. For the best Pennines activities suitable for families, why not check these out:
Here are some of the best family-friendly activities to enjoy in the South Pennines Park:
Please note that some of these activities may have age restrictions or require advanced booking, so it’s always best to check ahead.
Safety First
When hiking or walking in the outdoors, particularly on the wild hills of the Pennines, it’s important to take proper precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changes in weather conditions. Bring appropriate clothing and gear, such as waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy footwear.
Plan your route and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Stick to marked trails where possible, and carry a map and compass or GPS device.
Take enough food and water with you to last the duration of your hike. Bring snacks to keep your energy levels up, and consider bringing a stove to make hot drinks or food.
Be aware of wildlife and livestock in the area, and give them plenty of space. Keep your dog on a lead where necessary and follow the Countryside Code.
Be mindful of the environment and take your litter home with you. Respect any signs or restrictions in the area and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
Carry a fully charged mobile phone with you in case of emergencies. Make sure you have the relevant emergency numbers for the area you are visiting.
Explore the Top Attractions and Activities in the South Pennines
Introduction
Discover the family-friendly activities that await you in the South Pennines, a region known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. In this series, we’ll explore the top attractions and activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.
Hidden Gems
Discover the lesser-known treasures of the South Pennines:
Hardcastle Crags
Location: Hebden Bridge
This beautiful wooded valley offers hiking and picnicking opportunities with numerous trails and paths.
South Pennines Landmarks – Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Craggs
Stoodley Pike
Location: Todmorden
Climb to the top of this iconic tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Gaddings Dam
Location: Near Todmorden
A secluded reservoir perfect for wild swimming, offering clear water and stunning views.
The Singing Ringing Tree
Location: Near Burnley
An unusual sculpture on a hilltop that produces a haunting sound in the wind.
Natural Attractions
Hills, valleys, moorlands, and rivers for hiking, walking, and water-based activities.
Cultural Attractions
The Piece Hall in Halifax is a vibrant cultural and commercial centre.
Bronte Parsonage Museum in Haworth, celebrating the Bronte sisters.
Hebden Bridge Arts Festival is a showcase of artistic and cultural activities.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and fishing in picturesque settings.
Famous trails like the Pennine Way and the Calderdale Way.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Theme parks, zoos, play centres, and more.
Local gems like Hollingworth Lake and Gibson Mill.
Dining and Accommodation
Pubs, restaurants, and cafés serving local cuisine.
Accommodation options range from campsites to luxury hotels.
Shopping Destinations
Markets, independent shops, and farm shops for unique finds.
Art galleries and contemporary art spaces.
Industrial Heritage
Museums and sites showcasing the region’s industrial history.
Events and Festivals
Celebrate local culture, music, food, and more at various festivals.
Wildlife Experiences
Observe diverse bird species, wildlife, and flora in natural settings.
Plan Your South Pennines Adventure
Explore the South Pennines and make the most of your visit with this guide to its top attractions and activities. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun or hidden gems, this region has something for everyone.
Main Takeaways
– Family-friendly attractions offer interactive learning and wildlife encounters.
– Hidden gems include scenic valleys, historic towers, and serene reservoirs.
– South Pennines attractions encompass natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures.
– Dining and accommodation options cater to various tastes and budgets.
– Shopping destinations feature local crafts and contemporary art.
– Explore industrial heritage sites and enjoy vibrant festivals.
– Discover diverse wildlife and lush gardens in tranquil settings.
Family Hubs provide a range of support services for families with children aged 0-19 or 0-25 for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
7 Reasons Why Littleborough Is the Perfect Pennine Escape Visit Littleborough, which is nestled in the foothills of the South Pennines. it is a charming town with a lot to offer. It's the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. But don't just...
History Hare Hill Park has an interesting history. Key Takeaways: Hare Hill Park, a traditional Victorian park in Littleborough, has a rich history intertwined with that of Hare Hill House. Originally home to the Newall family, Hare Hill House later served as the Town...
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Explore the Tranquil Charm of Littleborough: From Lakeside Serenity to Sustainable Living. Discover the best of Littleborough’s picturesque landscapes, sustainable initiatives, and more in our informative blog. Uncover the heart of Greater Manchester’s hidden gem!
With its sweeping moorland hills and wealth of captivating routes, Littleborough is a haven for hikers seeking scenic outdoor adventures. By properly preparing for your hike, taking safety precautions, and refueling at local eateries after, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable walking experience. The breathtaking hills around Littleborough await – it’s time to lace up those boots!
However, in the 1930s, the fate of Watergrove took a drastic turn. The decision was made to create a large reservoir to supply drinking water to Rochdale.
The Summit Tunnel stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit and engineering prowess of its time. Let us delve deeper into the technical specifications that make this tunnel a remarkable feat of human innovation.
An area nestled in the Pennines, situated just outside Rochdale. Known for its picturesque scenery and rich history, Littleborough and the Pennine Villages is a popular destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
A Brief History
The area has a rich history dating back to the Roman period, with evidence of Roman activity found throughout the region. During the Industrial Revolution, the area saw a boom in textile production, with mills being built throughout the valley.
The Villages
The area is composed of several villages, each with its own unique charm and character. These include:
Littleborough
Littleborough is the largest village in the area, and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés. The village also boasts a number of historic buildings, including Littleborough Coach House and the Shore Hall.
Walsden
Walsden is a small village situated in a picturesque valley. The village is home to a number of historic buildings, including St. Peter’s Church and the Hollins Mill.
Smithy Bridge
Smithy Bridge is a small village situated on the Rochdale Canal. The village is home to historic Clegg Hall and the popular tourist attraction of Hollingworth Lake.
Summit
Summit is a small village situated on the outskirts of Littleborough. The village is home to a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a historic church.
Wardle
Historically a part of Lancashire, Wardle and its surroundings have provided archaeological evidence of Mesolithic activity in the area. The name Wardle is said to be derived from “Ward Hill”, implying “fortified place”. Places to visit include Wardle Village Church and Watergrove Reservoir, with its drowned village! There is a free car park at the reservoir, though the approach road is very uneven, being an old cobbled road, so be sure to drive very slowly up to the car park. It is definitely worth it though as there are pleasant walks around the reservoir and the surrounding hills.
Things to See and Do
Littleborough and the Pennine Villages offer a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are just a few things to see and do:
Hiking and Walking
The area is a hiker’s paradise, with a variety of trails and paths to explore. From the Rochdale Canal towpath to the Pennine Way, there is something for hikers of all abilities. There is the Pennine Way and Blackstone Edge. Furthermore, you have plenty of walks around local reservoirs, often with spectacular views over the surrounding hills and valleys.
Cultural Attractions
The area is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Littleborough Coach House and the Littleborough Arts Festival. Visitors can also explore the area’s rich history at the Littleborough Heritage Centre.
Food and Drink
Littleborough and the Pennine Villages is home to a variety of restaurants, cafés, and pubs. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as Lancashire Hotpot and black pudding, and enjoy a pint of real ale at one of the many pubs in the area.
Getting Here
Littleborough and the Pennine Villages are easily accessible by car or public transport. The area is situated just off the M62, and is well-connected by rail and bus services.
In Conclusion
The area is part of the South Pennines, with plenty of places just waiting to be discovered. Whether your interest is in history, wildlife, or you simply wish to explore nature, there is something for all ages and abilities in this beautiful area.
Be sure to check out some of our other posts, such as the one on Hare Hill House in Littleborough or the one about Edwin Waugh, a Lancashire Dialect Poet.
Littleborough Lakeside is part of the South Pennines. As such, it especially makes a great base from which to explore this dramatic landscape and historically significant region. The area is a stunning upland region in Northern England, stretching across West Yorkshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester. Furthermore, it is home to some of the UK’s most breathtaking scenery, with rolling hills, wild moorland, and picturesque valleys. In this article, we will explore the many landmarks and attractions that the South Pennines has to offer, highlighting some of the lesser-known gems that are waiting to be discovered. For this reason, you must visit the area at the earliest opportunity!
Brontë Country: Haworth and the Brontë Parsonage Museum
Haworth is undeniably a charming village situated on the edge of the Pennine moors, famous for its association with the Brontë sisters. For instance, the village is home to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, which is dedicated to the lives and works of the Brontë family. Visitors can explore the museum’s many exhibits, including manuscripts, personal belongings, not to mention the first editions of the sisters’ books. In addition, there are a range of independent shops, cafés and restaurants. In view of this, it makes it the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Marsden Moor Estate: Wild and Wonderful
Marsden Moor Estate is undoubtedly a wild and wonderful area of moorland that lies to the west of Huddersfield. The estate covers over 5,000 acres and is managed by the National Trust. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including walking, cycling, and bird watching. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including curlews, lapwings and mountain hares. Without a doubt, one of the highlights of the estate is certainly the striking gritstone outcrops, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the surrounding countryside.
Hardcastle Crags: A Hidden Gem
Hardcastle Crags is a hidden gem, tucked away in a secluded valley near Hebden Bridge. It is an area that’s home to a stunning woodland landscape, with ancient oak trees, tumbling streams and cascading waterfalls. Make sure you follow any one of a number of waymarked trails through the woods, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. Similarly, be sure to visit one of the highlights of the area in the Gibson Mill, a former cotton mill that has been converted into an eco-friendly visitor centre.
Heptonstall is surely a picturesque village that is frozen in time. Situated high on a hill overlooking the Calder Valley, the village has changed little over the past 200 years. When visiting, be sure to explore the village’s many historic buildings, not to mention the octagonal Methodist chapel and the ruined church of St Thomas a Becket. It also has a range of quaint tearooms and pubs, making it the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat.
Peak District National Park: Explore the Great Outdoors
The South Pennines is home to the northern section of the Peak District National Park, which offers some of the UK’s most stunning scenery. You should explore the park’s many attractions, including the dramatic Kinder Scout plateau, the picturesque village of Castleton, and the stunning Derwent Valley. The park is also home to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and caving.
In Conclusion
The area of the South Pennines is a region of outstanding natural beauty, with a wealth of landmarks and attractions just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or simply exploring the great outdoors, there is something for everyone in this stunning part of the UK. So why not plan a visit today and discover the hidden gems of the South Pennines for yourself? Sooner or later, you will be back. I guarantee it!
The historical Hare Hill House is a Georgian House built by the Newall family during the later half of the 18th Century. It has a fascinating history and significant artefacts. The house was gifted to the people of Littleborough by the Newall family and is now cared for by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Newall Family
Historical Hare Hill House was originally part of an estate owned by the Newall family of Littleborough. Their main residence was Town House. In 1876 Hare Hill House was settled on H.G.F. Newall when he married. In 1901 the property with its grounds was purchased by Littleborough Urban District Council for a ‘perpetual yearly payment’ of £323.19s 8d.
Now, the house is managed by a local community group, the Friends of Hare Hill Park. Rochdale Library has a branch at the house. Details of opening times etc can be found here. As well as a library, it hosts various group activities such as craft, art and some U3A groups.
You can read more info on the history of the Newall family here.
Town House itself is still in existence and more can be read about its history on the Littleborough’s History site here.
Hare Hill House is set in Hare Hill Park, formerly part of the grounds of the house and now a Green Flag park with several Grad II listed features. There is a programme of events throughout the year. Details of upcoming events can be found on the Friends of Hare Hill Park Facebook page.
Hare Hill Park was created in the Victorian era and sits snugly in the very heart of the Littleborough community.
There’s a range of facilities at Hare Hill Park, including:
Formal gardens
Fixed play areas
Skateboard park
Toddlers’ play area
Sports pitch area
Bowling greens
Historical features, including a listed water wheel and the bandstand
Town library and information centre, formerly Hare Hill House
Guide dogs allowed
Council-run bowling greens close each year from 30 September until 1 April while we complete winter maintenance work.
