Todmorden

Todmorden, a market town nestled in the Calder Valley on the border of Lancashire and West Yorkshire, is a place where industrial heritage, dramatic landscapes, and community spirit blend seamlessly. Although historically part of Lancashire, Todmorden has shared cultural and economic ties with both counties, giving it a unique identity.

Surrounded by steep Pennine hills, the town is framed by stunning countryside, with Stoodley Pike – a towering 19th-century monument – dominating the skyline. This obelisk, built to commemorate the end of the Napoleonic Wars, can be reached via scenic walking routes offering breathtaking views across the valleys.

Todmorden thrived during the Industrial Revolution, particularly through textile production, coal mining, and engineering. The Rochdale Canal and the railway transformed it into a vital transport hub, and many Victorian-era buildings still stand, including the impressive Todmorden Town Hall. Interestingly, the hall straddles the old county boundary – one end was in Yorkshire, the other in Lancashire – symbolising the town’s dual heritage.

A standout feature of Todmorden is its commitment to sustainability and food activism. The Incredible Edible movement, which began here in 2008, turned public spaces into communal vegetable gardens. Herbs grow outside the police station, fruit trees line the towpaths, and locals are encouraged to pick and share food freely – a pioneering model that has inspired similar projects worldwide.

The town boasts a strong arts and music scene, independent shops, markets, and cosy cafés. The Todmorden Market Hall, open since 1879, remains a bustling hub for local produce, crafts, and community life.

For lovers of the outdoors, Todmorden offers direct access to the Pennine Way, cycling routes, and wild moorland. There’s also Centre Vale Park, a beautiful green space with woodland walks, a skate park, and even remnants of a 19th-century mansion.