The 19 Most Amazing Peaks around Erringden

The Erringden area, characterized by expansive moorlands and significant hills, offers several prominent landmarks. Key among them are the Stoodley Pike Monument, a striking obelisk offering panoramic views, and Blackstone Edge trig point and Robin Hood's Bed, a gritstone escarpment with fine views over Manchester and West Yorkshire. Another significant site is Top Withins Ruins, a ruined farmhouse known as the inspiration for Emily Brontë's novel, Wuthering Heights.

Yes, the region is rich in history. The most prominent historical landmark is the Stoodley Pike Monument, a 38-meter obelisk completed in 1856 to commemorate the end of the Crimean War. You can also visit Top Withins Ruins, a ruined farmhouse with literary historical significance, and Blackstone Edge trig point and Robin Hood's Bed, which has historical ties to the English Civil War.

Erringden's high points showcase rugged Pennine landscapes. You'll encounter expansive moorlands, gritstone escarpments like Blackstone Edge, and unique natural stone formations. Examples include the Whirlaw Stones Trig Point, part of the Bridestones, which are weathered Millstone Grit outcrops forming strange and curious shapes, and the Cuckoo Stone and Lumb Stone mentioned in local lore.

For breathtaking panoramic views, the summit of Stoodley Pike is exceptional. From its internal viewing platform, you can see across the Calder Valley and even as far as Manchester on clear days. Blackstone Edge also offers commanding views over the landscape, including Manchester and West Yorkshire. Freeholds Top Trig Point provides excellent views across the valley towards Rawtenstall and Haslingden.

While many routes in Erringden involve strenuous moorland walking, there are easier options. For family-friendly walks, consider exploring the 'Easy hikes around Erringden' guide, which features routes like the 'Hell Hole Viewpoint – Jack Bridge over Colden Water loop from Hebden Bridge' or the 'Hebden Old Bridge – Hebden Bridge Beer Garden Café loop from Erringden'. These routes offer gentler terrain suitable for a wider range of abilities. You can find more details in the Easy hikes around Erringden guide.

The Erringden area offers a variety of hiking trails, from well-defined footpaths to rugged moorland routes. You can access Stoodley Pike via the Pennine Way and other paths. The Pennine Way also passes through Blackstone Edge. For those seeking more challenging terrain, Freeholds Top involves rough and often marshy moorland, with the Rossendale Way long-distance trail running nearby. Many routes crisscross Erringden Moor, offering strenuous but rewarding walks.

Beyond hiking, the Erringden area provides opportunities for running and road cycling. You can explore various running trails, including challenging routes like the 'Gibson Mill – Crimsworth Dean Beck loop from Hebden Bridge' or the 'Stoodley Pike Monument – Withens Clough Reservoir loop from Erringden'. For road cyclists, there are routes such as the 'Cragg Vale double with a Calderdale loop from Hebden Bridge' or the 'Calderdale moorland & reservoir loop from Hebden Bridge'. Discover more options in the Running Trails around Erringden and Road Cycling Routes around Erringden guides.

The best time to visit the peaks around Erringden is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and the moorlands are more accessible. However, the area's rugged beauty can be appreciated year-round, with winter offering a different, often dramatic, experience for well-prepared hikers. Always check local weather forecasts, as conditions on the exposed moorlands can change rapidly.

Yes, the nearby towns of Hebden Bridge and Todmorden are excellent bases for hikers and offer a good selection of pubs, cafes, and accommodation. After a walk on Erringden Moor or to Stoodley Pike, you can find welcoming establishments to refuel and relax. Many routes are designed to start or end in these towns, making it convenient to combine your outdoor adventure with local hospitality.

While direct public transport to the monument's base is limited, you can reach nearby towns like Hebden Bridge or Todmorden by train or bus. From there, Stoodley Pike is accessible via well-defined footpaths, including sections of the Pennine Way. It typically involves a steady climb from the valley, making it a rewarding walk from the towns.

Given the rugged and often marshy terrain, especially on areas like Freeholds Top and Erringden Moor, suitable waterproof footwear with good ankle support is a must. Layered clothing is advisable due to changeable weather conditions, and waterproof outer layers are highly recommended. Even on clear days, the exposed nature of the peaks means it can get very windy, so be prepared for all elements.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the public footpaths and trails across Erringden Moor and to landmarks like Stoodley Pike. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially when crossing farmland or during lambing season, and to be mindful of ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code, clean up after your dog, and respect local signage.