Clayton West - Kirklees Light Railway - Skelmanthorpe - Clayton West

Graham Wilson

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This is a leisurely walk which allows you to savour the delights of the Yorkshire countryside in this area. The route uses mainly footpaths and off-road tracks and is very quiet, although never far from civilisation. The leisurely pace allows you to spot the birdlife in the hedgerows and copses, whilst also taking in the longer distance views seen whilst crossing this undulating land.

The unique thing about this walk is the use of the Kirklees Light Railway at the start. The kids really like this, as it is often pulled by steam trains. It chugs you up the valley to the station at Skelmanthorpe, where you begin the route. As the train takes you up the valley, there is little climbing to do on the way back, apart from crossing the rolling landscape. The station also allows you to partake of light refreshments and buy railway-related items and memorabilia.

The route we used is only one of many options and if you are confident with a map, several variations can be taken, using the many footpaths identified in the area.

There are refreshment facilities to be found at the station and in the start / finish village.

England - North England - Yorkshire - Countryside