Hebcra one

Verified Slow Way

Verified by 80.00% of reviewers

Walked this from Cragg Vale to Hebden Bridge. Agree with the other comments - whilst this is a lovely and scenic walk, I'm not convinced it uses the best possible combination of the many available footpaths in this area.
At the Cragg Vale end, I would try sticking with the track to Hill Top as the route through Old Cragg Hall is not obvious. I would also suggest an earlier descent to the track at Broad Head (SD 99535 25424) as after this point there were some very wet sections.
There's probably scope for an alternative route following the valley down to Mytholmroyd and then either the canal or cycle route to Hebden.

On a cold, crisp, sunny, early January day I really enjoyed walking this route. I think you would be hard pressed to find a walk with such variety, interest and great views of this length that could surpass it in many other parts of the UK. Yes, OK there are steep climbs at the start/finish whichever way you go, and it's a bit boggy - but this is moorland!
There is also much added interest thanks to the association with King David and the infamous Cragg Vale Coiners, whose story is soon to be the subject of a series on the Beeb in the New Year, based on the novel 'The Gallows Pole' by local author, Ben Myers.
Several new boardwalks across more of the boggier bits have been put in place, since a previous reviewer's comments on the route, by 'CROWS' the local Community Rights of Way volunteers, in anticipation of increased use of this trail (which also follows part of an excellent walk inspired by the novel with maps and illustrations by Christopher Goddard). The path is likely to become easier to follow across the moorland section as result, but I would still repeat what another review has said - bring a map and/or GPS.

This is a convoluted way to get down from Erringden Moor and involves some very decrepid stiles around GR999239. I would recommend coming doen via Hill Top at GR 997236.

I walked this route in the opposite direction (from Cragg Vale to Hebden Bridge) and connected it with other Slow Ways routes to start in Sowerby Bridge and end in Todmorden.
Cragg Vale is a lovely area that I'd not explored before. This isn't a long or particularly strenuous route but it is pretty boggy around Bell House Moor (the footpath is due to be diverted to higher and drier ground which is useful). The route passes above Broadhead Clough Nature Reserve which is worth an explore.
Perfect as either a short walk (there's a pub at Cragg Vale and a bus stop on the main road) or to connect with other routes.

This walk is has a steep assent in either direction. It has a good variety if walking. A mixture or road surfaces, grass and moor land. It can be damp in places after heavy rain or during long periods of rainfall. You need good waterproof walking boots. The path is clearly marked although there are lots of alternative routes. Take a map or GPS.

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