Best attractions and places to see around Kirklees include a diverse range of historical landmarks, expansive natural landscapes, and cultural venues. The district, located in West Yorkshire, features parts of the Pennine Moors and Peak District parkland, offering varied terrain from blanket bogs to ancient woodlands. Visitors can explore ancient sites, engineering marvels, and picturesque villages. The region's natural environment provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its hills, valleys, and reservoirs.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Highlight (Segment) • Summit
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Highlight • River
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Highlight • Cycleway
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Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Popular around Kirklees
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Hiking around Kirklees
Road Cycling Routes around Kirklees
Cycling around Kirklees
Take your time down this section as it can get quite busy with people, dog walkers, and cyclists. Some sections are newly laid tarmac but other areas are hardstanding compacted stone. The canal does narrow in parts but all ridable with caution at the locks.
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Views for days! But extremely bleak when it wants to be. Nice early tickbox when walking the Pennine Way
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Handmade Bakery is a popular choice for a decent pastry and coffee. Get them at opening time.
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Part of the quarried crag of Pule Hill, the area can be popular with rock-climbers on the least windy days and paragliders on other days. The arch is one of the highlight, but the whole crag offers a beautiful landscape as well as views of the valley below. Easily accessible from Marsden, you can include this spot as part of a short walk; or a much longer hike taking in Black Hill and the Marsden Moors.
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Kirklees offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Black Hill Trig Point, a natural monument offering extensive views in clear conditions, though it can be boggy. The area also features several beautiful reservoirs like Wessenden Reservoir, a scenic spot perfect for a hike, and Scammonden Reservoir, notable for its dam carrying the M62 motorway. For panoramic views, consider the challenging climb to Holme Moss Summit.
Yes, Kirklees is rich in history and culture. You can explore the ancient site of Castle Hill in Huddersfield, featuring Iron Age and medieval remains, topped by the Victoria Jubilee Tower. Oakwell Hall and Country Park is a beautifully preserved Elizabethan manor house, offering a glimpse into 17th-century life. The Colne Valley Museum, housed in 19th-century weavers' cottages, provides insight into the region's industrial past. For a unique experience, the Kirklees Light Railway (Whistlestop Valley) offers steam train rides through the Pennine foothills.
Families can enjoy a variety of attractions. The Kirklees Light Railway offers a fun steam train experience. Slaithwaite village and canal is a pleasant spot for a stroll, and Butterley Reservoir and Spillway is a peaceful and family-friendly location just outside Marsden. Additionally, the Sheep Sculptures on Spen Valley Greenway provide an engaging point of interest along a cycle path suitable for all ages.
Kirklees offers extensive opportunities for walking and hiking. Marsden Moor provides 5,000 acres of moorland, valleys, and hills for exploration. The Pennine Way skirts Wessenden Reservoir, making it a great objective for a hike. For more structured routes, you can find various mountain hikes around Kirklees, including challenging options like the 'Laddow Rocks – Black Hill Trig Point loop from Crowden'. Explore more options in the Mountain Hikes around Kirklees guide.
Yes, Kirklees is well-suited for cycling. The Scammonden Reservoir features a cycle path. For road cyclists, the Holme Moss Summit Climb from Holmbridge is an iconic and challenging route. Mountain bikers can find trails like the 'Stainland to Scammonden Water loop' or the 'Meltham Moor to Butterley Reservoir loop'. Discover more cycling options in the Cycling around Kirklees guide and the MTB Trails around Kirklees guide.
Holmfirth is a picturesque Pennine village famous as the setting for the BBC TV series 'Last of the Summer Wine'. It's known for its charming architecture, vibrant arts scene, and a good selection of cafes and restaurants. The Holmfirth town centre is a popular spot for visitors to explore.
The Spen Valley Greenway, featuring the Sheep Sculptures, is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a pleasant route for those with mobility needs. Public parks like Beaumont Park and Greenhead Park in Huddersfield also offer paved paths and accessible areas for enjoyment.
Kirklees boasts impressive engineering feats. The Standedge Tunnel is Britain's longest canal tunnel, an 1811 marvel offering boat rides and a visitor center. Scammonden Reservoir is unique as its dam carries the M62 motorway, the only structure of its kind in the UK.
On a rainy day, consider visiting one of Kirklees' museums. The Tolson Museum in Huddersfield offers a vivid picture of the town's history, while the Bagshaw Museum showcases unusual collections from around the world. The Colne Valley Museum provides an indoor look at industrial heritage. You can find more information on local museums at kirklees.gov.uk/museums.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from places like Black Hill Trig Point and Holme Moss Summit, noting the rewarding panoramas after a challenging effort. The peaceful beauty of the reservoirs, such as Wessenden Reservoir and Butterley Reservoir, is also highly appreciated for their tranquil atmosphere and scenic walks.
Yes, Kirklees is home to several notable public parks. Beaumont Park in Huddersfield, opened in 1883, retains period architecture and beautiful flower arrangements, hosting various events and nature trails. Greenhead Park, also in Huddersfield, is another significant public park offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.


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