Yorkshire Churches Day Circular Walk (HD3) - Discovering quiet routes connecting churches
St Stephen's Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD3 3JB
The aim of Yorkshire Churches day on 14 September is to encourage everyone to visit their local church even if they have never stepped foot inside a church before. It will be a day for those who are curious about history and heritage of their local surroundings. Each of the churches will be open for refreshments and for us to have a look at the interior and exterior features.
We will start with a brief history of St Stephen's Church at Lindley (Grade II) and then walk mostly downhill to St John's Church in Birkby which is Grade II*. Our route takes us through residential streets, on paths by fields, and through the fascinating Edgerton Cemetery with the tall spire of St John's visible at many points. There will hopefully be an organ recital at St John's to enhance the visit. We progress on to St Cuthbert's in Birkby and then head up the beautiful Grimescar Valley towards St Philip's Birchencliffe (both Grade II). This will be through woods on tracks and by fields, with a stream running by. En route, we will pass other interesting buildings, such as the Buddhist Centre on Wheathouse Road, which used to be a Baptist Church, and Lindley Methodist Church.
The walk is suitable for people who can cope with 5 miles distance. Please note the route includes some steep inclines taken at steady pace. Walking time is 2-3 hours + extra depending how long we stay in each church. Our aim is to be back to St Stephen's for final refreshments around 1345 to 1400.
St Stephen's Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD3 3JB
There are a few busy main roads to cross, and some pavements may be slippery if there is wet weather. Good stout walking footwear is necessary especially through the Grimescar Valley tracks. It is not suitable for wheelchair users, those with prams and pushchairs, and only suitable for children who can easily cope with 5 miles of walking.
This is a guided walk but if anyone wishes to come by car to each church they will be very welcome. Please see the HOD website for the churches' opening times.