Stage 3 Standedge to Hebden Bridge

Breakfast at 7:30 and a lift back to the Pennine way meant a nice early start. A very gentle climb onto the moor on a clear path but we missed a turn and had to back track slightly. On crossing the A640 we found a snack van and a welcome hot drink. Past the most eastern point in Lancashire, this is national trust land so the point is marked (but you can argue this is no longer Lancashire but Greater Manchester). Soon it was over the M62 on a bridge I have been under so many times, I’m into home territory now. The day started to warm and we were able to remove our coats. More moor with its bog cotton, deeply grooved tracks, and the constant singing of sky larks. Next the great outcrop rocks of Blackstone Edge, where we had lunch looking out over Littleborough. Soon after lunch we passed the “White House” pub, and everyone knows the rules, you have to stop for a drink. We met others at the pub doing the Pennine way who skipped yesterday as the weather was too bad. That made us feel superior. Thankfully today was better and by now the sun was actually shining on us. After this point it’s miles of track around reservoirs before reaching the edge above Mankinholes and finally Stoodley Pike. Stoodley Pike was designed by James Green to commemorate Napoleon’s defeat. A slow gentle descent and a detour along the “Pennine way- Hebden Bridge loop” brings you to farm fields and woodland track, before being plunged into the hustle and bustle of Hebden Bridge. A nice easy walk and unlike yesterday lots of people out walking and cycling.

Sunfield accommodation – Diggle, quirky, a lick of paint on the window frames would help but I liked this place. It’s a working small holding. Breakfast was provided in a very characterful sitting room / dining room. This felt like someone’s home not a commercial establishment. The view from our room was very pleasing.