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.
