Top o' th' Calder. Todmorden.
11 people attending
9 places left
We will explore the upper extreme of the Calder Valley between Todmorden and Cliviger.
The infamous River Calder ("violent water") is mostly a culverted stream at this stage of its life.
We will pass close to its source at Heald Moor (the source two river Calders!).
The valley here is at its steepest, bleakest, quietest and remotest. It has its own unique beauty in comparison to further down the catchment.
We will have hills, great views and water! The walk is approximately 10 miles long with a 580 meter total ascent
We will call at The Bridestones, approximately 430m above sea level. They were formerly the abode of druids and the site of ritualistic and sacrificial ceremonies. It was probably named after Bridia, a Brigantes deity. Legend also suggests weddings took place on the moor giving the "Great Bride Stone" and smaller "Groom Stone" their name.
We will follow the Calder way To Pudsey Clough and straddle the Lancashire borders before heading up and along the opposite side of the valley by Dobroyd Castle, an important, historic building built in 1866 and continue back to Todmorden.
This is a dog friendly walk, so well behaved dogs welcome. There are a few stiles on a small section, so bigger dogs might need extra hands.
We will finish in The Golden Lion for a great selection of beers and Thai food.
Image / photo credits: All leader's own images - OutdoorLads has permission to use and them.
If the event is fully booked: please join the waiting list as people frequently drop out during the week before an event and you are likely to get a place on the walk.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
Packed lunch and plenty to drink