Location: Summit Hills, Nr Todmorden Date: 14th November 2013 Camera: Samsung Galaxy Tablet
The Pennines, often referred to as the "backbone of England," possess a rugged, untamed beauty that has inspired poets, hikers, and dreamers for centuries. There is a specific magic to these hills when the autumn sun hangs low, casting a bronzed glow over the moorland. This particular view, captured from the high ground above the historic Summit Tunnel, offers a breathtaking perspective of the borderlands between Walsden and Littleborough, stretching all the way toward the distant horizon of Halifax.
If you are looking for a walk that combines industrial heritage with expansive natural vistas, this stretch of the South Pennines is an absolute must-visit.
The Gateway to the North: Standing Above Summit Tunnel
The vantage point for this photograph is steeped in Victorian engineering history. Deep beneath these feet lies the Summit Tunnel, one of the oldest and longest railway tunnels in the world at the time of its completion in 1841. Designed by George Stephenson for the Manchester and Leeds Railway, it represents a pivotal moment in the Industrial Revolution.
Standing on the hills above it, however, the roar of the steam engines (or modern-day Sprinters) is replaced by the whistling wind and the cry of the curlew. This contrast—the hidden, mechanical heartbeat of the valley versus the timeless, rolling silence of the peaks—is what makes the Pennine experience so unique.
A Landscape Painted in Gold and Rust
The image perfectly captures the transition of the seasons. In late autumn, the vibrant greens of the lower pastures begin to yield to the hardy moorland grasses and ferns.
The Foreground: The steep incline is blanketed in golden-brown fescue and dried bracken, glowing as if illuminated from within.
The Middle Ground: Traditional stone farmsteads and white-washed cottages are nestled into the folds of the valley. These buildings are constructed from the very gritstone upon which they sit, making them feel like a natural extension of the earth.
The Far Distance: Looking toward Halifax, the layers of the Pennine ridges fade into a soft blue-grey, showcasing the sheer scale of the Calder Valley landscape.
Walking the Borderlands: Walsden to Littleborough
For those wishing to see this view in person, the trek between Walsden and Littleborough offers some of the most rewarding scenery in West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester.
Starting in Walsden
Walsden is a village with a distinct character, sitting right on the edge of the historic Lancashire-Yorkshire border. Starting here, hikers can ascend the steep tracks that lead toward the Pennine Bridleway. As you climb, the valley opens up, revealing the intricate patchwork of dry stone walls that have defined these fields for hundreds of years.
The Summit Pass
The area known as "Summit" is the highest point of the valley pass. It is a narrow, dramatic gap where the road, the canal (Rochdale Canal), and the railway all huddle together to find passage through the hills. Walking the ridge line above this pass provides a "birds-eye" view of this incredible feat of transit planning.
Looking Toward Halifax
On a clear day, the visibility is astounding. Following the line of the valley eastward, your gaze travels over Todmorden and Hebden Bridge toward the industrial heritage heights of Halifax. It’s a reminder of how interconnected these mill towns were, linked by the very hills and waterways you are traversing.
Why the South Pennines Are a Photographer's Dream
The South Pennines offer a different aesthetic than the jagged peaks of the Lake District or the limestone plateaus of the Yorkshire Dales. Here, the beauty lies in the texture and light.
Gritstone Shadows: The dark millstone grit crags provide a moody, dramatic backdrop that changes character with the passing clouds.
The "Golden Hour": Because of the east-west orientation of many of these valleys, the sunset light (as seen in the photo) lingers on the hillsides, creating a long, warm glow that is perfect for landscape photography.
The Scale: The lack of heavy forestation means the topography of the land is completely exposed. You can see the "bones" of the hills.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning to head out to the hills above Summit Tunnel, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Footwear: The terrain is often "peaty" and can be very boggy, especially after the rain. Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential.
Weather: The Pennines are notorious for rapid weather shifts. A sunny start in Littleborough can turn into a misty shroud by the time you reach the summit. Always carry a windproof and waterproof layer.
Navigation: While many paths are well-marked, the moorland can be disorienting in low cloud. Carry a physical map (OS Explorer OL21 is the one you need) or a reliable GPS app.
Respect the Land: Much of this area is working farmland. Keep dogs on leads, especially during lambing season, and always follow the Countryside Code.
Final Thoughts
There is a profound sense of perspective to be found on these hills. Looking out from above the Summit Tunnel, you aren't just looking at a view; you are looking at a living history book. You see the ancient paths of the packhorse trails, the Victorian ambition of the railway, and the enduring resilience of the farmers who still work this rugged land.
Whether you are a local rediscovering your backyard or a visitor seeking the authentic heart of Northern England, the walk above Walsden and Littleborough is a soul-stirring journey through one of the UK’s most underrated landscapes.
