Todmorden offers two distinct focuses for a stay: architectural and local history, with theatre and markets, and routes through parkland and upland scenery. The Town Hall reflects the history of a county boundary; Stoodley Pike and the Mary Towneley Loop lead your thoughts to the heights above the town.
Architectural history by Walsden Water
Todmorden Town Hall is a Neoclassical building that opened on 3 April 1875. It is listed as Grade I and spans Walsden Water. Until the county boundary was moved on 1 January 1888, the building stood in both Lancashire and Yorkshire. This building brings together architecture, a watercourse and a precisely dated boundary history—a distinctive aspect for anyone interested in the history of the town.
Market and theatre programme
Todmorden Open Market first opened in 1802. As trading arrangements may change, it is best to check in advance which trading opportunities are currently available if the market is to be a key part of your visit. Todmorden Market Hall offers a different side of market architecture: it is a Victorian covered market hall with a glass roof.
Todmorden Hippodrome Theatre is also part of the cultural offering. This Edwardian variety theatre has 485 seats and hosts musicals, plays, films and live music events. Which performance suits your visit depends on the programme at the time, so check event dates before travelling.
Routes, heights and parkland
Stoodley Pike Monument stands above Todmorden, is 121 feet (37 m) high and is listed Grade II. A spiral staircase with 39 steps leads to the viewing platform. The monument is not accessible by vehicle: access routes follow the Pennine Way or designated public rights of way; it is also accessible by mountain bike. Check local path conditions before planning your visit.
The Todmorden Centenary Way can be joined at any point. Connecting routes make it possible to plan walks using public transport; check current timetables in advance. The Mary Towneley Loop runs along the ridge above Todmorden. This offers different ways to plan: a flexible starting point and the option of incorporating public transport on the Centenary Way, alongside the Loop’s ridge-top route.
The Rochdale Canal runs near Todmorden railway station. Its continuous, level towpath is suitable for pushchairs. For short stretches along the canal, regular local buses can connect the start and finish points. This provides practical guidance for a level route or a walk in sections; check bus timetables before setting out.
Centre Vale Park covers 33 hectares of mature oak and beech woodland, with woodland paths and open parkland. There are opportunities for walking, sports, picnics and family outings. The range of activities therefore extends from walks in the park to routes along the ridge, without requiring both to be part of the same outing.
Plan a stay to suit you
If you are looking for a hotel in Todmorden, first decide what you want your days to focus on: architecture, markets and specific theatre dates, or more time in the park and countryside. Then check which location suits your plans.
Discover more destinations: Halifax, Hebden Bridge.
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