Holiday rentals in Marsden

The small village of Marsden in West Yorkshire boasts breathtaking landscapes and a rich industrial heritage. From its striking canals to its lush green valley and glistening reservoirs, Marsden brims with natural beauty. Set against the backdrop of the South Pennines and Peak District parkland, the village is at the doorstep of many walking, hiking, and bicycling trails. A journey along the River Colne, which runs through Marsden, leads to Standedge Tunnel, one of four parallel tunnels in the Pennines.

The historic buildings that line the streets are made of sandstone and grit, giving the appearance of a village suspended in time, though that certainly isn’t the case. Peel Street, Marsden’s main thoroughfare, is the central shopping area, home to boutiques, art studios, and trendy and traditional places to grab a drink and a bite to eat.

The warm but not too hot temperatures Marsden experiences during the spring and summer months are ideal for enjoying the Pennines’ vast natural beauty with nature walks and bicycle rides. The town hosts the Marsden Cuckoo Festival in spring, with a colourful procession, live entertainment, and food. Even in summer, rain is common, so it’s always a good idea to bring an umbrella and an extra layer with you, just in case. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and more rainfall, though there are still plenty of nice days to get out on the local hiking trails. Temperatures rarely dip below freezing in winter and the area does not see a ton of snow, but the wind and rain can make it feel colder than it is, so be sure to bundle up before heading out to explore the region.

Standedge Tunnel and Visitor Centre

Five minutes outside Marsden is the 5.6-kilometre Standedge Canal Tunnel, one of Britain’s highest, deepest, and longest canal tunnels. Take a guided boat trip along the waterway to learn more about the tunnel’s construction and history, spanning 200 years. There is a cosy cafe near the tunnel if you’re looking for a small bite or a cuppa.

Ramsden Reservoir

Situated along the edge of the Peak District, the Ramsden Reservoir offers scenic walks through varying terrain, including vast stretches of woodland. There’s a series of paths that meander through the valley and over the moors near the village of Holmfirth, 20 minutes away. The woodland picnic sites offer a tranquil spot to enjoy a snack while taking in the scenic views.

Marsden Moor

Marsden Moor, part of Peak District National Park, is a broad expanse of open moorland crisscrossed by several hiking paths. Take the Marsden Moor Heritage Trail, a 12.8-kilometre walking path that leads to the top of Pule Hill. Getting here is half the fun, especially if you enjoy bird watching. Golden plovers, merlins, short-eared owls, and grouse are just a few species you might spot in the area.