Stump Cross (Standing Stone)

Stump Cross is a Grade II listed structure with a rich history. It is believed to have origins dating back to the Bronze Age, potentially serving as a prehistoric standing stone. Later, it was repurposed as a marker or guidepost along the ancient Long Causeway, a medieval trackway. Its name, 'STUMP CROSS', is carved into its lower section, and an incised cross is visible near its top, though both are heavily weathered.

Yes, Stump Cross can be a great destination for families. The highlight itself is easily accessible from the Long Causeway. While the intro mentions family-friendly options, it's important to note that the surrounding moorland terrain can be exposed and weather conditions changeable. Choosing an easier bridleway, such as the one along Bransdale Ridge, would be ideal for a family walk. Always ensure children are dressed appropriately for the weather.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome at Stump Cross and on the surrounding public footpaths and bridleways. The area offers many dog-friendly walks. However, as it's open moorland, livestock may be present, so it's crucial to keep dogs under close control or on a lead, especially during lambing season, and to clean up after them.

There isn't a dedicated car park specifically for Stump Cross. However, visitors can usually find opportunities for roadside parking near the Long Causeway track. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as spaces can fill up quickly.

The terrain around Stump Cross is typical of exposed moorland. The Long Causeway itself is a trackway, generally manageable. However, some diverging routes can be more challenging. For instance, heading northeast towards Cockayne Head involves navigating potential boggy sections, and the bridleway towards Colt House Farm is described as a narrow, very steep, and quite boggy sheep path. Appropriate footwear is essential for all routes.

Stump Cross serves as an excellent waypoint for various circular walks. From the cross, you can head north to cross Slape Wath Moor and descend into Tripsdale, or take the easy bridleway south along Bransdale Ridge. Combining these with other sections of the Long Causeway or connecting paths can create diverse loop trails. Exploring local maps or using a route planner can help you design a circular walk that suits your desired distance and difficulty.

While Stump Cross itself is in an isolated moorland setting, there are amenities in nearby villages and towns. The intro mentions turning right at a pub to ascend onto the Long Causeway, suggesting a local establishment in Mereclough or Over Town. For a wider selection of pubs and cafes, you would need to venture into larger nearby settlements like Todmorden, Burnley, or Hebden Bridge.

Reaching Stump Cross directly by public transport can be challenging due to its remote moorland location. The nearest towns with bus or train services would be Todmorden or Burnley. From these points, you would likely need to arrange for a taxi or undertake a significant walk to reach the Long Causeway and then Stump Cross. Planning your journey in advance with local transport schedules is recommended.

A winter hike to Stump Cross offers a unique and starkly beautiful experience, but requires careful preparation. The moorland is exposed and can be very windy, cold, and potentially boggy or icy. In winter, routes like the one towards Bloworth Crossing might involve navigating an overflowing High Bloworth Ford. Always check weather forecasts, wear multiple layers of warm, waterproof clothing, carry navigation tools, and inform someone of your route and expected return time.

In the early 19th century, Stump Cross was known as 'Cross With The Hand'. This name is believed to originate from an outstretched hand that may have been carved into the original, taller shaft of the cross. This hand would have served as a directional indicator, guiding travelers along the ancient Long Causeway, highlighting its historical role as a crucial waypoint.