Hardcastle Crags

Explore this beautiful wooded valley with its deep ravines, tumbling streams and glorious waterfalls. Walk through woodland rich in wildlife with over 25 miles of footpaths and see the striking seasonal changes in the plants and trees. At its heart is Gibson Mill, a former cotton mill and entertainment emporium, now a visitor centre using sustainable energy, where you can discover more about the valley’s 200-year history with dressing up and exhibitions.

It’s hard to imagine that this peaceful valley once had a railway, built to transport workers from their temporary homes at ‘Dawson City’ up to the reservoirs at Gorple, Widdop and Walshaw Dean.