Attractions and Places To See around Kirklees - Top 20
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.
Best attractions and places to see around Kirklees
- The most popular attractions is Black Hill Trig Point, a natural monument that offers extensive views in clear conditions. This remote landscape has a rugged charm, though it can be boggy.
- Another must-see spot is Wessenden Reservoir, an other man-made lake and viewpoint. This reservoir, constructed in 1836, is a beautiful objective for a hike, with the Pennine Way skirting its northern edge.
- Visitors also love Scammonden Reservoir, a cycle way and lake. This reservoir is notable for its dam, which carries the M62 motorway, making it a unique engineering feat in the UK.
- Kirklees is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient hill forts to picturesque villages and vast moorlands.
- The attractions around Kirklees are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 180 upvotes and 140 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Black Hill Trig Point
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Wessenden Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Holme Moss Summit Climb from Holmbridge
Highlight (Segment) • Summit
The gradient ramps up in Holmbridge to 12.5%, before easing a little through Holme. The final 2.2km (around 1.5 miles) have an average gradient of 9.3% and wide, open views that ease the suffering somewhat (ideally, you'll hit this climb when the sun is out!).
Tip by
Slaithwaite village and canal
Highlight • River
Commercial Hotel is recommended, located next to the main street (and canal) with a small sitting area out the front. It has an excellent selection of real ales including a couple of their own at very keen prices. Good selection of pubs and restaurants, so a good place for a stop when on a long-distance tour.
Tip by
Butterley Reservoir and Spillway
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Scammonden Reservoir
Highlight • Cycleway
Scammonden Dam, which serves the reservoir, was built as part of the M62 Motorway and is the only of its kind in Britain.
Tip by
Holmfirth Road Climb (Dovestone Reservoir)
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
Pule Hill
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Holmfirth town centre
Highlight • Historical Site
The Riverside cafe (at first floor level near the river) is popular with cyclists.
Tip by
Standedge Tunnel and Visitor Centre
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Kirklees.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Kirklees
Peak District National Park – A Walk in the Parks
#WalkHome2020 — Sheffield to Cockermouth in 15 days
Pennine Cycleway – An epic adventure along the UK's toughest ride
Exploring dramatic Peak District waterfalls on foot
A Walk in the Parks – hikes across all of England’s national parks
Spectacular rides in Central England – e-bike trials by Halfords
Calderdale — Yorkshire's mountain biking trail honeypot
Hiking around Kirklees
Road Cycling Routes around Kirklees
Cycling around Kirklees
Other adventures around Kirklees
Tips from the Community
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.
0
0
Views for days! But extremely bleak when it wants to be. Nice early tickbox when walking the Pennine Way
0
0
Handmade Bakery is a popular choice for a decent pastry and coffee. Get them at opening time.
0
0
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.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and viewpoints can I explore in Kirklees?
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.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions in Kirklees?
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.
What family-friendly activities are available in Kirklees?
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.
Where can I find good walking and hiking trails in Kirklees?
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.
Are there cycling routes or mountain biking trails in the area?
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.
What is Holmfirth known for?
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.
Are there any accessible trails or attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
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.
What are some unique engineering marvels in Kirklees?
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.
What are the best places to visit on a rainy day in Kirklees?
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.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Kirklees?
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.
Are there any significant public parks in Kirklees?
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.
Most popular routes around Kirklees
Most popular attractions around Kirklees
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
