The Calderdale Way: 50 miles for 50 years

An epic new walking challenge is encouraging people to get active whilst enjoying Calderdale’s distinctive landscapes and culture. 

As part of the Calderdale Year of Culture 2024 (CultureDale) programme, the Council is inviting long-distance walking enthusiasts to celebrate Calderdale’s 50^th birthday year by walking the Calderdale Way – a 50-mile walking route that encircles Halifax, Hebden Bridge and Todmorden.

The launch of a special five-day hike itinerary comes just before the Council’s themed social media week focusing on what makes Calderdale distinctive, to build awareness of this important Vision 2024 for Calderdale theme. From Monday 15 to Sunday 21 July, people can share comments and images of what they think makes Calderdale special, using the hashtag #VisionCdale2024.

The Calderdale Way is an outstanding example of what makes the borough’s landscapes so distinctive. Originally created to mark the formation of the borough in 1974, this 50-mile circular route was officially opened on 21 October 1978. It follows old packhorse routes, passing through pretty hillside villages and old mill towns, providing exceptional panoramic views over the Pennines.

Although the route can be done in sections, for the borough’s 50^th year the Council is encouraging people to tackle the Calderdale Way as a five-day adventure, using local businesses along the route.

To provide inspiration for this, Visit Calderdale has created a five-day itinerary, including points of interest and hospitality businesses / facilities along the way. Head to www.visitcalderdale.com/visitor-information/walking-in-calderdale/the-calderdale-way when planning your trip.

Cllr Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, said: “Calderdale is blessed with very distinctive scenery and culture. We are making the most of this throughout our Year of Culture 2024. The Calderdale Way is something special that local residents can enjoy on their doorstep, and our 50^th anniversary walking challenge also aims to attract more visitors and benefit local hotels, cafés and other businesses.

“As well as promoting our Year of Culture, the challenge supports our Active Calderdale mission to get people moving more for their health and wellbeing, and our climate action priority to encourage more sustainable travel. Visitors can arrive in the borough by train, and then discover our spectacular countryside on foot at their own pace.”