Nestled just upstream of the 18th century Colne Bridge and the dramatic railway viaduct that now carries the Calder Valley Greenway, is Colne Bridge Riverside Nature Area. Thanks to support from Yorkshire Water and over 200 hours of volunteer effort, pathways have been upgraded and vegetation cleared for to make this a great place to take a stroll. Mixed woodland, a dramatic weir and riverside provide a tranquil home for native wildlife. Kingfishers, heron and goosander are regular visitors as well as resident songbirds.
Entrances can be found opposite the Royal and Ancient Pub on Dalton Bank Rd (offering a warm welcome and a bite to eat) or via steps down from the Calder Valley Greenway. Look out for information boards with a local walks and wildlife at the entrances. The boards feature a 1.5 mile circular walk that takes you over the viaduct, with great views of riverside woodlands, across to Castle Hill and surrounding farmland. A walk along the Huddersfield Broad Canal brings you back to historic Colne Bridge.
The riverside nature area has a footpath that leads to a dramatic weir and mature woodland that’s been described as feeling like you’re in a bit of ‘Canadian wilderness’! There is a long term schedule of habitat improvements to improve biodiversity and the installation of benches and better access for wheelchair users in the future.
EPIKS Director Jeff Keenlyside said, ‘This is a great place for wildlife to thrive close to Huddersfield. Together with volunteers, we’ve cleared paths, replaced steps and worked hard to create a litter-free haven for people to take time out to relax, get fit and be in nature. We hope that local people will be inspired to use the site more and maybe even join us by lending a hand with its care and upkeep’
EPIKS runs regular supported volunteer work parties at the Colne Bridge Riverside Nature Area and other wildlife sites along the River Colne on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Contact if you would like to join us.