This hidden gem is an idyllic spot to explore with stunning moors, Britain's longest canal tunnel, and charming independent shops along theRiver Colne.
08:00, 16 Jan 2026Updated 08:07, 16 Jan 2026
Tucked away in West Yorkshire lies a charming village that often flies under the radar of tourists, yet it's brimming with countryside rambles and delightful places to unwind after a day's adventure.
Located along the River Colne in the South Pennines, visitors will discover Marsden, a sizeable village steeped in history. Today it's renowned for its impressive selection of walks for keen ramblers, positioned right on the boundary of the Peak District with its own expanse of moorland.
The terrain surrounding the village is expansive and wild, perfect for lovers of the outdoors, establishing the village as an ideal base for overnight stays or refuelling stops. Marsden Moor alone draws crowds as a National Trust site spanning more than 5,000 acres of moorland.
One resident described their experiences on the moors as nothing short of "stunning". They shared on TripAdvisor: "I'm lucky enough to live in Marsden, so I'm on the moors pretty much every week with the dogs or the local running club I run for. There are stunning walks, trails, waterfalls and plenty of reservoirs, and plenty of tracks to walk and run on. It's never really busy, as it's such a big area.
"The dogs love it but sometimes have to be on a lead due to the sheep. Can't say how stunning it is here looking down, the views are truly epic."
Another hiker shared: "Walk on the wild side. This is a beautiful and very lonely part of the countryside not far from our home. We regularly walk the dog and enjoy some quiet time up here, Winderness, well not quite, but you might not meet many people up here. Beautiful."
Beyond this path, the area draws crowds keen to tackle the Stanza Stones Trail, a 47-mile long-distance route linking Marsden to Ilkley. The trail features the celebrated landmark showcasing six poems etched into stones along the Pennine watershed, all written by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage.
It seamlessly merges the artistic works inspired by the region's natural beauty with the stunning outdoors itself. The trail holds special meaning, as Armitage was born in Marsden village, and the walk guides visitors through the elements just as he experienced them decades ago.
Yet the village's real crown jewel dates back to 1794, when work first commenced. The Standedge Tunnel holds the title of Britain's longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel, standing as a remarkable example of Georgian engineering prowess.
Constructing this tunnel took an astonishing 17 years; completed in 1811, it was achieved by a dedicated workforce using hand-blasting techniques, carving through solid rock without a towpath. This engineering marvel lies 638 feet beneath the surface and stands at an impressive 196 metres above sea level, maintaining its status as a British record-holder to this very day.
Despite its compact size, the village boasts several traditional pubs, all easily accessible on foot. Travellers on TripAdvisor have crowned Riverhead Brewery Tap as the area's top dining destination, with customers describing their visit as "simply superb".
Nestled amongst these watering holes is an array of independent retailers, perfect for a leisurely stroll through the village. From trinkets to crafts, clothing, jewellery and charming bakeries offering homemade treats, there's a delightful atmosphere about the place that continues to attract visitors repeatedly.
You can visit a National Trust property for free at locations across England, Wales and Northern Ireland with this day pass for you and your family.