The best walks and hikes around Meltham

Yes, many of the trails around Meltham are circular, designed to bring you back to your starting point. These routes vary in length and difficulty, from short reservoir loops to longer moorland treks. A great example of a shorter, easy circular walk is the Blackmoorfoot Reservoir – The Bull's Head loop from Linthwaite, which is perfect for a quick outing.

Meltham is a great place to hike with a dog, but be mindful of the terrain. Many routes cross open moorland and farmland where livestock graze, particularly sheep. It's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. During bird nesting season (typically March to July) on the moors, dogs must be kept on a short lead to protect ground-nesting birds.

There are plenty of options for beginners. The Meltham Greenway, a repurposed railway line, offers a flat and accessible path for a gentle stroll. For a scenic and relatively easy hike with a bit of ascent, the Cock Crowing Stone – West Nab Trig Point loop from West Nab is a good choice, providing great views without being too strenuous.

For a more demanding trek, head towards the Peak District moorlands. The area around Black Hill and Saddleworth Moor offers rugged terrain and a true sense of wildness. These routes involve significant elevation gain and navigation across exposed, often boggy ground, rewarding experienced hikers with solitude and expansive views.

Yes, the most well-known waterfall is Folly Dolly Falls. This tranquil cascade is a popular local spot, especially after rainfall. It's set in a pleasant woodland and can be reached via a short path, making it an excellent feature to include in a local walk.

Reservoir walks are a key feature of the Meltham landscape. You can find trails around several reservoirs, including Blackmoorfoot, Wessenden, and Deer Hill. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer serene, scenic walks with excellent opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquil water views.

Yes, Meltham is served by bus routes connecting it to Huddersfield and other nearby towns. From the village centre, you can directly access many footpaths, including the Meltham Way and routes leading to the surrounding reservoirs and moors. This makes it possible to plan a day of hiking without needing a car.

The Meltham Greenway is ideal for families, offering a flat, traffic-free path suitable for pushchairs and small children. Shorter loops around the reservoirs, like Blackmoorfoot Reservoir, are also great options, providing scenic views on relatively easy and manageable paths for a family outing.

The weather in the Peak District can change quickly, so layering is key. Always wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as trails can be muddy and uneven. A waterproof jacket is essential, even on a clear day. For moorland hikes, also pack a hat, gloves, and an extra warm layer, as it can be significantly colder and windier at higher elevations.

Several walking routes in and around Meltham pass by or finish near traditional pubs, perfect for a post-hike meal or drink. The village itself has a few options, and many trails are designed to incorporate a stop at a country pub in the surrounding Holme Valley.

You can explore over 50 different hiking routes around Meltham. The trails are split almost evenly between easy and moderate difficulty, with a couple of challenging options for experienced hikers, ensuring there's a walk for every ability level.

The hiking routes around Meltham are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of landscapes, from the peaceful reservoir paths to the wild, open moorlands and the stunning views from vantage points like West Nab.